A Small Reward

We were held up by those mysterious men, but the journey proceeded smoothly from that point on. At this rate, we would be able to make it back before it turned completely dark. Just as the sun began to dip below the horizon, the Royal Capital flickered into view ahead of us.

Just as when we left, we entered through the gate reserved for nobility and headed straight for the mansion. Passing through the noble district, the carriage came to a stop in the courtyard.

“Thank you for your hard work, sir.”

“Thanks.”

Vim stepped down from the carriage and offered his hand to Hana.

“Pardon me. Thank you very much,” Hana said, taking his hand as she alighted.

When they reached the front entrance, the doors were already being opened.

“ “Welcome home.” “

James and Aria were there to greet them. Seeing their faces made Vim truly feel like he was back.

“You must be exhausted, sir.”

“Thanks.”

Vim took off his robe and handed it to Aria.

“Did anything happen while I was away?”

“There is one matter I must report,” James said, straightening his posture.

“Hm? Did something happen?”

“Yes. A few hours after you departed, an individual came shouting, demanding that we hand you over. As they did not appear to be a citizen of this country, I dealt with them… or rather, I politely asked them to leave.”

Wait, did he just almost say he “dealt with them”? Now that he thought about it, James had solid muscle for his age, and his stance was very steady. Judging by his movements, he had likely practiced some form of martial art.

“I see. Thank you. I have a general idea of who it might be, so I’ll look into it.”

If they weren’t from this country, the highest probability was someone from the Cyrus Empire. If that was the case, it wouldn’t be difficult for Vim to investigate.

“Understood, sir. If there is anything I can do to assist, please do not hesitate to ask.”

“Yeah, thanks.”

James was a man with connections all over the country. He was a reliable ally, but there was likely no one more terrifying to have as an enemy. Then again, Vim knew he wasn’t exactly one to talk.

“Oh, right. I’m going to report to His Majesty tomorrow. Could you let the palace know?”

“As you command. I shall deliver a letter to the palace immediately.”

“That helps a lot.”

The sun had already set and the surroundings were dark. It would be rude to request an audience with His Majesty at such an hour.

“Dinner is prepared, so please enjoy your meal, Master.”

“I think I’ll do just that.”

It hadn’t been a “long” journey per se, but he intended to wash away the travel fatigue with food. After enjoying a meal that was as delicious as ever, Vim decided to take a bath. The bath in this mansion was large compared to average ones—about the size of a small public bathhouse. It was set up so he could soak any time between evening and night.

“Haaaaah…”

He rinsed off and sank into the tub. The warmth seeped into his core, and his exhaustion seemed to melt away into the water. After soaking for a while, he got out and changed into comfortable pajamas. He returned to his room and flopped onto the bed. Usually, he would spend this time reading books or looking over documents, but tonight was for resting.

“Master Vim, may I come in?”

Aria’s voice came from behind the door.

“Come in.”

“Excuse me.”

Aria entered the room.

“Is something wrong?”

“No, I simply thought you looked tired, Master Vim. I wondered if you might like a massage.”

“In that case, I’ll take you up on that.”

Since it was a kind offer, Vim decided to accept.

“Certainly. Please lie face down on the bed.”

“Sure.”

Vim did as he was told.

“You’re quite stiff. And at such a young age, too.”

“Well, there’s the stress, and I’ve been moving around quite a bit.”

Aria massaged him in order: shoulders, back, waist, and legs. She was incredibly skilled, and it felt wonderful. He felt like he could get addicted to this.

“There, all finished.”

After an hour of massage, his body felt significantly lighter.

“Thanks. I feel much better.”

“I am glad to hear it. Well then, I shall bring you some tea.”

“Ah, could you use those tea leaves I got from the Count? I’ll be out on the terrace.”

“Understood.”

Aria left the room. Vim stepped out onto the terrace, sat in a chair, and enjoyed the night breeze.

“Sorry to keep you waiting. This is tea brewed from the leaves Count Dion gave you.”

“Thank you.”

Aria poured the tea into a cup from the pot.

“It’s delicious.”

The aroma was wonderful, and the taste was superb. As expected of a Count, he used excellent tea leaves.

“Master, do you have a moment?” James said as he stepped onto the terrace.

“What’s up?”

“I have received a reply from His Majesty. He says you may come to the palace tomorrow at your convenience, so I came to report.”

“Got it. I’ll go in the afternoon then. Thanks.”

“Understood.”

Having delivered the message, James returned to his duties.