Request For Support

His Majesty’s explanation continued.

“Furthermore, I intend to move toward making it possible for Miss Hana to register as an adventurer.”

Because Hana held the status of a slave, she normally would not be allowed to register. This was a strict national regulation. While there were movements seeking to abolish this rule, opposition from conservative nobles and influential families remained deep-rooted.

“Is that actually possible?” Vim asked.

If it were possible, it would be incredibly convenient, and he certainly wanted to see it happen.

“First, as a special exception, I will authorize Miss Hana’s registration. I intend to use this as a foothold to push for the complete abolition of the regulation.”

It appeared the King was an opponent of the current system. Indeed, Vim felt that such a rule ran contrary to Leoria’s policy as a meritocracy. The strength of this country lay in the fact that all citizens had an equal opportunity to seize a chance.

“However, for this to work, Hana’s abilities must be recognized by those around her. That is why I want you to ensure this mission is a success, no matter what.”

“Understood.”

Even as the King of a nation, changing a law required the approval of the assembly. While he could grant a special exception through royal authority for Hana specifically, that wasn’t a true solution in the long term. His Majesty was speaking with the future of Leoria in mind.

It was because he was this kind of King that the people followed him. In fact, Vim felt that he too wanted to follow this King—no, this man.

“We’ll head to the Eastern Forest as early as tomorrow.”

“I see. I suppose it’s a waste of breath to worry about you, but do stay careful.”

“Thank you.”

After a bit more small talk and a status report with the King, they left the Royal Palace.

“See? He’s exactly the kind of person I told you he was. The King here doesn’t discriminate based on social standing,” Vim said to Hana as they walked side-by-side.

“Yes. He was a very kind person. To think he would try to give even a slave the chance to become an adventurer…”

“Exactly.”

Vim wondered if that King might eventually abolish the institution of slavery altogether. Putting aside “criminal slaves,” perhaps there was no need for slaves like Hana who were sold for money.

Well, perhaps that was just idealism. However, Vim had no desire to entrust the future to someone incapable of even holding an ideal. Humans are creatures that believe in what they want to believe.

“Let’s give it our all starting tomorrow.”

“Yes! I’ll do my best!” Hana said enthusiastically.

They walked the path back to the mansion at a steady pace.

“I’m home—”

“Welcome home, Master.”

James was there to meet them upon their return.

“It looks like we’ll be away from the mansion for a bit starting tomorrow. We’re going to assist the Knight Order in the Eastern Forest.”

“Understood. Please leave the management of the estate to us. While you are away, I shall ensure the mansion is guarded strictly.”

James’s words carried weight. Vim felt that as long as he left things to James, the house would be fine.

“Sorry for the short notice, but could you arrange a carriage for us?”

“Leave it to me. I shall arrange one immediately.”

James was so overqualified as a steward that Vim found himself constantly relying on him. To be able to handle such a sudden request was nothing short of impressive.

“I’m counting on you. Hana, get yourself ready for tomorrow as well.”

“I understand,” Hana said as she headed toward her room.

“Now, I should get ready too.”

Well, “getting ready” mostly meant packing a minimal change of clothes and some food. It didn’t take much time. Once his own preparations were complete, Vim spent some time in the study reading up on the Eastern Forest and the surrounding terrain. He gained a general grasp of the geography.

“Still, you never really know until you get there.”

Seeing is believing. One cannot see the true essence of things without observing them firsthand. Vim had been reminded of this truth in many different situations.

By the time he left the study, night had fallen. It was best to get some rest. From tomorrow, he would be placing himself in an unfamiliar environment. Vim returned to his room and climbed into bed. As he closed his eyes, his consciousness eventually drifted away.

The next morning, Aria woke him up a little earlier than usual. It was exactly the time he had requested yesterday—her punctuality was remarkable.

“Good morning, Master. The carriage has been arranged; I believe it will arrive to pick you up by the time of departure,” James said as Vim came down to the living room, looking impeccable in his tailcoat.

“Thanks. That’s a huge help.”

“Not at all. It is my duty.”

Duty or not, if he performed so perfectly, no other steward would ever measure up. After finishing a quick breakfast, the departure time drew near. It seemed Hana was ready as well.

“Oh, right. Hana, I’ll give this to you.”

“What is this?”

“It’s a Magic Bag. If you put your luggage in there, it makes it more compact.”

A Magic Bag is enchanted with spatial magic, allowing it to store much more than its outward appearance would suggest.

“I… is it alright for me to have such an expensive item?”

“Yeah, I already have one, and I don’t need two.”

It was true that Magic Bags weren’t cheap. However, since Vim already had his own and could use “Storage” magic as well, he didn’t have much use for a second one.

“If that’s the case, I will accept it. Thank you very much!”

Hana took the Magic Bag and promptly stuffed her belongings inside.