"Is it okay if I ride this?"
"Yes, if you ride this for about an hour from now, you should be able to reach the capital city. It might take a while, but please bear with it."
After passing through the gatehouse arch, there was a single carriage.
The carriage had a body that could be called as first class, with a white horse with shiny hair. It was of such high quality that even Sota, a commoner, could recognise its quality.
Stepping inside, there were plush chairs and a luxurious interior.
It gave the impression of a small, high-end suite room.
"Wow...it's amazing"
"There's not much, but there's alcohol and food inside. Drink and eat as you like."
"Are you sure you want me to be treated like royalty like this"
"In a way, you are as precious as royalty"
Honestly, for Sota, this treatment was more than he deserved.
While feeling overwhelmed, Sota childish heart raced at the sight of the luxurious carriage, something he had only seen in movies.
"Isn't Phyllis-san joining us?"
"Ah, unfortunately, it wouldn't be appropriate for a man and a woman to be in this confined space..."
"I see... That's a shame."
If Sota were to think about what happened last night, he would wonder what would become of it. But it was better to keep that a secret. Although it was something they agreed upon and not something to be blamed for, it wouldn't be good if it became known.
As the two of them showed a slight hint of regret, Elerain voice came to reprimand them
"Souta-sama, Phyllis-sama, we don't have much time. We need to hurry and arrive before sunset."
"....That's right. Sota, that's the situation."
"Understood. I just have to wait for another hour, right?"
"Oh... and one more thing, please make sure the curtains are securely closed."
"The curtains?"
"if Sota-sama were to be seen in the middle of the capital, it would cause a small commotion"
"I understand."
"Also, Sota-sama, please change into this outfit during our journey."
Saying that, Elrain handed Sota a piece of clothing.
The fabric felt much more exquisite than what he was wearing now, and it looked expensive at first glance. It must have been arranged along with the carriage.
"Thank you, Elerain-san."
"W-Well then, Souta-sama, please be patient until we reach the capital city."
◆
Kingdom of Vedna - the royal capital
Vedna Kingdom is said to be the largest and most fertile land within the continent, and it is known for its stable national power. Despite the ongoing conflicts with the Adair Empire and monsters, the capital city is a place of tranquility
The city is protected by sturdy double-layered fortresses, and the entire capital receives the blessings of the Great Spirit Ashius. Even the Empress of the Adair Empire, Eleanova would not consider conquering this city, which is known for its impenetrable defenses.
At the center of the capital stands the majestic white castle, Vedna Castle, as if declaring purity to all men. It is tall, grand, noble, and yet fortified. The walls of the castle have even repelled the wicked spear of the demon Gandhar, according to legend.
"Sigh... I wonder if everything will be alright."
A bewitching, yet deeper than the deepest ocean, sigh.
The woman seated on the magnificent throne of the royal palace was cloaked in an air of melancholy.
In terms of appearance, she appeared to be in her thirties, maybe even late thirties. Her stunning hair, the color of the sky, flowed in loose waves down to her waist.
If there was one word to describe her, it would be "bigger." Standing at over two meters tall by estimation, she had a slight excess of flesh compared to the tightly toned women like Phyllis and Ronia.
No... if one were to describe her appearance, which was considered a treasure of the Gertia Continent, it would be more accurate to say "she has gained some weight, but still retains her beauty."
• Queen of the Vedna Kingdom, Marmora.
The throne with a large seat was a bit cramped for her to sit on because her body was too big
This throne, passed down through generations from the royal family, was a precious object allowed only for the queen of this country to sit on.
It is a famous anecdote that the throne of the empire was carved from the claw of a divine dragon, but on the other hand, it is said that this throne was made from the tears of the spirit king
In any case, Marmora was sitting on such a grand chair, looking like a half-melting ice.
The source of the Queen anxiety was the safety of her companion, Phyllis
It had been a long time since she received a report of Phyllis disappearing in the great forest.
Marmora, who was more prone to worry than anyone else, had been restless since she received the report of Phyllis disappearance.
When Marmora sighed heavily again, her breasts, swayed.
"Your Majesty. I regret to inform you that we have received a report of Lady Phyllis safety, and a messenger has come to inform us that she has returned to the capital. Although your concern as a Queen for the safety of a soldier is admirable, worrying too much can harm your health."
"But I can't be at ease unless I see that child healthy appearance with my own eyes... Haa... Phyllis... I wonder if she's eating properly... I'm worried..."
The advice of the guards was like clutching at straws.
Then Marmora was about to sigh again -
"Your Majesty! General Phyllis has entered the city!"
"...! Bring her to me right away!"
"Yes, ma'am!"
The return of the hero was announced