We were nearing the capital; its imposing walls and castle towers were now clearly visible. The walls, a formidable barrier of grey stone, were punctuated by evenly spaced bastions, each topped with menacing-looking cannons. The castle itself, a breathtaking structure of white stone, dominated the skyline, its numerous towers piercing the sky like the teeth of some colossal beast. The capital dwarfed the town of Seika.
it was at least ten times larger. Upon arrival, we were met with a long line at the city gate, a massive oak structure reinforced with iron bands, its carvings depicting scenes of past battles and triumphs. A throng of people—merchants, nobles, and others—all waited patiently to enter. The entry fee was one solis, a hefty sum equivalent to one hundred lumins. We joined the queue and waited patiently. After a thirty-minute wait, we paid the guards, underwent a brief inspection, and finally entered the capital.
The scene was breathtaking. The city bustled with activity. Buildings varied in style and size, from modest wooden structures with steeply pitched roofs to grand stone edifices adorned with intricate carvings and stained-glass windows. Many buildings incorporated both wood and stone, showcasing a blend of practical construction and aesthetic appeal. Larger buildings often featured multiple stories, their upper levels accessed via narrow, winding staircases.
Ornate balconies jutted out from some of the grander buildings, offering glimpses into the lives of their wealthy inhabitants. The streets themselves were a fascinating mix of cobblestone and packed earth, the latter often muddy in places. Street performers entertained the crowds with music and dance, their performances often taking place in small, designated areas between buildings. The air thrummed with the sounds of conversations, the rumble of carts laden with goods, the rhythmic clang of blacksmiths' hammers, and the general cacophony of a thriving city.
Even the smaller buildings displayed a level of craftsmanship, their details suggesting a city that valued both function and beauty. Many houses featured decorative elements like carved wooden friezes, brightly painted shutters, and meticulously crafted doorways. The overall architectural style suggested a blend of practicality and artistry, reflecting both the city's wealth and its rich history.
After exploring for a while, we sought an inn and found a large one that suited our needs. The inn itself was a substantial stone building, its facade adorned with a sign depicting a golden sun and a welcoming inscription. We decided to eat. I ordered beef stew with steak, devouring it with gusto; the journey had whetted my appetite considerably. After our meal, Mord and Sasha decided to explore the capital, leaving Lisa and me behind.
Lisa was unusually quiet, but I sensed she was gathering the courage to tell me something. Finally, she spoke.
"Me," she muttered, the single word barely audible.
"What?" I asked, prompting her to elaborate.
"Save… save me," she whispered, her voice trembling.
I decided to tease her, prolonging the moment.
"For what?" I asked, a playful smile on my face, my hand resting on my cheek.
Her face registered shock and fear.
"What do I get if I save you?" I pressed, continuing my playful banter.
She trembled visibly, her head bowed low, her eyes reddening as she fought back tears. I felt a pang of guilt, but I pressed on.
Why was she reacting this way? What was going on?
She bit her lip, her distress palpable.
"Haha. I was just joking, don't worry; how about a book that's about... Let's say magic? I need to get stronger anyways," I said, my tone softening. The relief on her face was immediate. The tension drained from her body as hope flickered in her eyes. She looked up at me, tears welling, a mixture of hate, gratitude, and weariness etched on her face. She must have endured a great deal of suffering. Not that I particularly cared at that moment; my primary concern was the immediate situation.
I reassured her that I wouldn't expect anything in return; rescuing her from whatever predicament she faced was reward enough.
Sigh. Only four weeks ago, I was transmigrated to this world, and now I was already rescuing a damsel in distress. What a life! Not that I disliked it; quite the contrary, in fact. Hehe.
I looked out the inn window.
"Should we go out?" I murmured.
Lisa looked at me, blushing slightly, her face questioning.
I got up, paid the bill, and we left the inn. Lisa followed closely behind.
We strolled through the capital's bustling streets, teeming with at least sixty people on every block. The buildings lining the streets varied greatly in size and style, but even the smaller ones showed a remarkable level of craftsmanship. Many featured decorative elements such as carved wooden friezes, brightly painted shutters, and intricately designed doorways. Children played, their laughter echoing through the air. Carpenters worked on new houses, the rhythmic clang of hammers a constant soundtrack. Mothers chatted, catching up after a long time apart, their children tugging at their sleeves, impatient to go home.
A wave of nostalgia washed over me, a feeling reminiscent of my own childhood. Poor but happy, I recalled similar scenes from my past, strolling with my parents, witnessing the everyday life of our neighborhood. But I pushed those thoughts aside. No time for dwelling on the past.
Lisa smiled faintly as we walked, her spirits lifting. We visited various stalls, browsing the wares. At a food stall, her eyes lit up with childish enthusiasm.
"Didn't you just eat?" I teased her gently.
Lisa blushed, realizing her eagerness.
"Nevermind, you can eat," I conceded, amused by her reaction.
We continued our exploration until evening, eventually returning to the inn to rest.
AT THE CAPITAL'S PLAZA
Mord and Sasha strolled through the plaza, hand-in-hand, their behavior suggesting a romantic relationship. The plaza itself was a large, open space paved with smooth, grey stone, surrounded by impressive buildings. A large fountain, crafted from intricately carved marble, stood at the center, its water cascading into a shallow basin.
"How are we going to pull this off?" Sasha asked, her voice hushed.
"My primordial vessel is already brimming with demonic energy; summoning a D-rank demonic monster should be relatively easy. The only thing to consider is the timing—a day with a large crowd will ensure we gain recognition," Mord explained, his tone calculating.
"Hehe. Infiltrating the hero's party should be simple once we gain the attention we need," Sasha added, her voice laced with cunning.
Mord surveyed the plaza, searching for the ideal spot to summon the monster. The fountain seemed perfect, offering ample space. They continued their planning, returning to the inn around midnight.
"Hehe, now all we need is to get those two to assist us in defeating the monster, and we should be good to go. Only then can we receive the real mission," Mord stated, his ambition clear.
Sasha chuckled. "Indeed, as expected of my one and only love; you're the best."
"Now's not the time for celebrations, but I'll make an exception," Mord replied, grinning. They shared a kiss and then retired to bed.
Kukuku. These morons! Don't they realize I can hear them? Their supposed "confidential" conversation was easily overheard through these thin walls. How pathetic!
Regardless, I need to start planning their demise, but not just yet. I need to deal with that monster they plan to summon. Kekeke, wait. I should toy with them a bit first, prolonging their arrogance. The thought of their frustrated faces fills me with glee. Challenges are what I crave, and I will overcome them with excitement. No matter what obstacles arise, I will face them head-on.