Chapter 18: Imperial Capital – Martial Arts Tournament – 04
On the fourth day since departing from Zanzagilium, the number of travelers on the road increased as we approached the Imperial Capital.
Among the carriages passing by, several were of quite luxurious design, a common sight in the Vermilian Kingdom. It seemed that wealth naturally congregated in the capital, a phenomenon observed in every world and nation.
As we walked along the now wider road, we spotted a party of adventurers resting by the roadside.
The party consisted of three men and two women, all equipped with weapons and shields that appeared to be made of Orichalcum. The two women, likely mages, wielded impressive staffs that immediately suggested their high rank.
Particularly striking was the middle-aged man who seemed to be the leader. He carried a massive sword that rivaled Karma’s Beast King’s Fang, exuding an aura that made it clear to anyone that he was a formidable warrior.
As we passed by, the leader called out to us. He was a towering figure, easily a head and a half taller than me. His reddish-brown hair, long sideburns, and ruggedly handsome features gave him a wild appearance, but the sharpness in his eyes and his graceful movements indicated he was no mere brute.
“Sorry to interrupt, but we’re the ‘Polar Drake’ party. You folks are adventurers too, right? Are you the leader?”
“Yes, that’s correct. We are known as ‘Soul’s Guidance.’ I am Soushi, the leader.”
“Well, aren’t you polite? I’m Jaze, the leader here. Sorry for the sudden approach.”
“Not at all. Are you also headed to the Imperial Capital, Jaze?”
“Yeah, that’s right. We intended to participate in the martial arts tournament, but our previous job took longer than expected. We’re hurrying there now. But ‘Soul’s Guidance,’ huh? That name sounds familiar.”
As Jaze pondered, one of the mages from ‘Polar Drake,’ a woman with an alluring presence, chimed in.
“Jaze, isn’t that the guy rumored to have defeated a dragon barehanded, the hero of the kingdom?”
“Huh? Oh, that tall tale? Sorry, I didn’t mean to speak ill of it. It’s just hard to believe. So, you’re Soushi, right?”
“Yes, that’s me. While it’s true I defeated a dragon, I completely understand your skepticism. If I were just hearing the story, I wouldn’t believe it either.”
“Right? But the way you say it makes it sound true. So, does that mean you’re planning to enter the martial arts tournament as well?”
“Yes, it seems that way.”
As I replied, I glanced at Dorozitte. She had turned her gaze elsewhere, but the smile tugging at the corners of her mouth was hard to hide.
“That’s exciting! But ‘Soul’s Guidance’ is quite a large and impressive party. Hmm? That beauty over there looks familiar… Wait, isn’t she the Grand Master?!”
“Oh, you caught me. It seems ‘Polar Drake’ is doing quite well. Have you gotten caught up in the ‘Demon’ troubles in Gulfact this time?”
As Dorozitte approached, the imposing Jaze took a half-step back. The members of ‘Polar Drake’ stood up in unison.
Could it be that she is feared among the empire’s adventurers?
“That’s correct, but what brings the Grand Master here?”
“I came to confirm the dragon situation. Thanks to that, I was lucky enough to witness this Soushi defeat it barehanded.”
“Wait, really? Is that for real…? Regardless, Grand Master, it’s certain that the number of ‘Demons’ is steadily increasing. Moreover, their quality and quantity have improved, and for those below D-Rank, the damage is becoming significant.”
“I see. If Jaze says so, it must be true. I’ll verify once we return to the capital. However, it will be difficult to implement any more countermeasures. Gathering high-ranking adventurers in the capital for the martial arts tournament might not have been the best idea.”
“Well, we can’t just not do it. Many adventurers have come here for this day.”
“That’s true. Still, gathering information on the ‘Demons’ and sharing it among adventurers would make a significant difference. Once we reach the capital, please provide a detailed report.”
“Understood. By the way, Grand Master, why are you with ‘Soul’s Guidance’?”
“They’re quite a special party. Soushi here is a count of the kingdom, making him an important guest for the imperial family.”
“A noble, huh? Oh dear, I apologize for my rudeness.”
“I think if you all continue to excel, you might also receive titles of nobility.”
“That’s a bit out of our league, to be honest.”
It seemed that ‘Polar Drake’ was a party with a strong bond of trust in Dorozitte.
Given the limited number of A-Rank parties, each would naturally be treated with respect, but there were still distinctions among them.
In fact, the differences between A-Rank parties might be more pronounced than those between F and A-Rank. Although, I might be told to look in the mirror regarding that.
As we continued our conversation, we found ourselves taking a short break. Just as I was considering wrapping things up and moving on, Freinir hurried over to me.
“Soushi-sama, I sense a sinister presence ahead. It might be a ‘Demon.'”
“That’s not good. There are many people on the road. How far away is it?”
“In that forest over there. It feels like it’s near that large tree.”
Freinir pointed towards the forest spreading to the south of the road. Indeed, a tall tree stood out, growing right at the edge of the forest. The forest itself was about a hundred meters from the road, but if a Gate to Another World opened there, the ‘Demons’ could quickly approach the road.
“Got it, thank you. Let’s hurry over there.”
“That sounds ominous. What do you think is happening?”
As I instructed everyone to prepare for battle, Dorozitte looked a bit surprised.
“Freinir detected the presence of a ‘Demon,’ so we’re heading to the scene. Grand Master, please follow us shortly.”
“If that’s the case, I’ll go with you. But does Freinir really have such abilities?”
“Yes. I’ve never missed a detection before.”
“Wow…”
Seeing Dorozitte’s impressed demeanor, I reaffirmed that Freinir’s unique skill, the Saint’s Eye, was understated yet incredibly useful. It undoubtedly held a crucial position in the activities of ‘Soul’s Guidance.’
“Can ‘Polar Drake’ mobilize as well? It seems a ‘Demon’ is appearing.”
When Dorozitte addressed Jaze, he looked puzzled.
“If that’s true, of course, we’ll respond, but…”
“Their strength is genuine. I recommend you observe… though perhaps it would be better if you didn’t.”
Dorozitte’s suggestive words seemed to ignite Jaze’s determination to join us.
“We’ll head out first.”
With that, we set off towards the location Freinir indicated.