The Return

The next morning, Vim woke up slightly earlier than usual. Today, they would be returning to the Royal Capital.

“Good morning.”

By the time Vim finished getting ready and left his room, Hana was already prepared.

“Morning,” Vim replied, and the two stepped out of the inn.

Several carriages were lined up outside, just as they had been when they arrived.

“Good morning, Master Vim. Please, take this carriage,” Grand Master Camille said, ushering them forward.

“We’re heading out!”

At Camille’s command, the carriages began to roll slowly. Before long, they had passed through the gates of Radia.

“You were a true lifesaver this time,” Camille remarked during the journey.

“Not at all. I’m receiving a fair reward, and I’m just glad I could be of use.”

The conversation continued as the carriage moved along. To be honest, there isn’t much to do while traveling by carriage, so one naturally becomes more talkative to pass the time. On the way back, they followed the same low-risk route they had taken before.

Vim’s search magic didn’t pick up any signs of significant danger. Most minor magical beasts would simply retreat if he directed a bit of killing intent toward them. While they occupied themselves this way, they passed through two more towns. By this point, they were nearly back at the Royal Capital. The sun was beginning to dip, but they were on track to enter the city before it got completely dark.

“Master Vim, we’re almost at the Capital,” Camille said, noticing Vim was nodding off.

Rubbing his eyes, Vim looked out the window to see a familiar landscape unfolding before him.

“The Capital really is the best, after all.”

It was incredibly convenient. There were all sorts of shops, and the Guild was flooded with requests every single day. Once you’ve lived in the Capital, it’s hard to imagine going anywhere else—at least, that’s how Vim felt.

“Well then, thank you for your hard work. I look forward to working with you again if anything comes up.”

Grand Master Camille had the carriage drop Vim and Hana off right in front of their mansion.

“Thank you for the ride. And of course—if you need anything, don’t hesitate to reach out.”

With that, the carriage pulled away from the mansion. Vim and Hana watched it go before stepping inside.

“There really is no place like home.”

“I agree,” Hana said softly.

When Vim opened the front door, James and Aria were there to greet them.

“ “Welcome home.” “

“Yeah, I’m back. Anything happen while we were away?”

“No, sir. Everything has been peaceful this time. You both must be exhausted; we have prepared a meal for you,” James said.

“Thanks, I appreciate it.”

Vim took off his robe and handed it to Aria. He headed straight to the living room, where a spread of magnificent dishes awaited. No matter how much he traveled, eating at his own table was always the most relaxing experience.

After they had finished their dinner, James approached Vim.

“Master, a letter has arrived from the Royal Palace.”

“Thanks.”

Vim took the letter from James and checked the contents. It was a request for him to bring Hana and come to the palace tomorrow if they had the time. Since he had already intended to go and file his report, the plans for tomorrow were set.