Volume 6 Chapter 48 The Journey Of The Return Of The King
Edited by: Kanaa-senpai
I still want to help Tizzy a little more. I want to talk to Ms. Shirakaba again. And above all, I want to have a proper conversation—just the two of us—with Princess Auroora.
Especially with her… If I miss this chance, I might never get the opportunity to speak to her alone again.
But even if I did meet her, what would I say? Would I confess my feelings? I’m a king now, so there shouldn’t be such a gap in our status. She clearly holds a strong dislike for summoned Heroes, but perhaps there’s some misunderstanding. And if it’s a misunderstanding, I believe I can clear it up.
After a long night of conflicting thoughts, I chose not to seek her out again. From Princess Auroora’s perspective, a sudden visit would only be awkward. She’d probably think, “Who is this guy?”
It’s unlikely, but if things actually went well between us, that could cause even more problems. If I grew closer to her without Ms. Nina knowing… she’d probably be hurt.
I get the feeling that, among all the people around me, Princess Auroora is especially off-limits. There’s no reason, just instinct.
If it’s meant to happen, I’ll meet her again. The fact that our paths crossed at all is already a miracle.
* * *
At breakfast, I announced that I could no longer leave my territory unattended.
”Don’t worry! I’ll handle the rest of the paperwork!”
Ms. Shirakaba’s cheerfulness was on full display. Her skin even looked more radiant than usual. Maybe she just needed a good night’s rest. Teenagers really are full of life.
”I truly appreciate everything, Your Majesty. I’ll repay your kindness someday!”
Tizzy was also unusually bright this morning. I suppose it fits her age.
The military officers had apparently spent the night running all over the territory, but by now, they were resting peacefully as if nothing had happened. Even though Gorigan and the others had escaped, everyone remained composed.
It reminded me how important it is for leaders to stay calm. I should learn from that.
On the way to the stables, I caught a brief glimpse of Princess Auroora at a window. The moment our eyes met, she quickly ducked out of sight. But in that short second, the troubled look on her face left a deep impression on me—so much that I shivered.
Would Ms. Nina ever make that kind of expression? If she did… I’d probably be overwhelmed by it.
I left the town gates along with a group of horse-mounted couriers heading for the royal capital. While technically merchants, their true trade was information.
They reminded me of Edo-era express riders, mixed with New York-style bike messengers. I didn’t expect to find such a job in Kasgar, which always felt like a quiet, rural backwater. But I guess that’s the nature of border towns.
Even though Tizzy lent me a fine horse, I was soon left in the dust. As expected, the couriers were experts. Their speed was insane.
If Ms. Claire had been here, we might have kept up. But no use making excuses.
Interestingly, their horses were all scrawny, the kind you’d never use in war or for pulling carts. Probably bought dirt-cheap. And yet, the way they galloped… it was clear their riders were professionals. The riders barely carried any luggage, and some didn’t even use proper saddles. No weapons, no armor—just a small case or two strapped tight.
They rode light and fast, even if it meant skipping inns, which charged ridiculous rates along the route. Efficiency seemed to be everything.
Apparently, if attacked by bandits or monsters, they’d leave behind whoever slowed them down. Their only weapon was speed. Like prey in the savanna, they relied on outrunning danger, not fighting it.
Most of them rode solo, but they traveled in loose groups, probably to increase their odds of survival.
They worked at cheaper rates than guild messengers and held little prestige among merchants. Their income likely barely covered their horses’ upkeep. But still, they looked like they genuinely enjoyed riding. Real racers, through and through.
It was kind of lonely that no one teased them for it. I’d had a great time chatting with Ms. Shirakaba about Japan’s quirks earlier… I guess that feeling lingered.
As far as I knew, Ms. Shirakaba was the only female summoned Hero. If that ever got out, she’d attract a lot of attention. She’s rare: a beautiful Japanese woman with a great personality. Her taste is a little… eccentric, but I care about her all the same.
* * *
Eventually, I found myself in a heated race with a boy on a scrappy old horse who had also fallen behind.
It was frustrating—how could I, riding a much better horse, be nearly outpaced by a kid?
But this road was rough. Knowing the terrain mattered more than raw speed.
My horse, strong and still young, was careful around dips and slippery mud patches. Smart, yes—but that caution slowed us down. And if I lost to an old horse here, it wouldn’t be fun. And I wasn’t exactly having fun right now.
I pushed harder, but I couldn’t catch up before the gates of the capital came into view.
The old horse glanced down at mine with what looked like smug satisfaction. My own horse sagged in defeat. Horses really are clever creatures.
”You did well. Prioritizing safety was the right call. Charging recklessly would’ve only saved us a few minutes.”
I gently patted its shoulder. It seemed to understand most of what I was saying—perhaps thanks to my Mind Communication skill.
* * *
After leaving the horse with Miss Floria, I made my way to Ms. Mahal’s shop. Looks like I’ll be staying the night at the teacher’s place.
The schedule’s tight, but I can’t neglect Miss Floria just because I’m busy. And, well… I was honestly looking forward to spending time with her again.
Sure, Ms. Shirakaba and Tizzy have their own charm. But Miss Floria—older, kind, and calm—is the kind of person who lets me relax.
An older woman who doesn’t demand much… I hate to admit it, but that feels oddly comforting. Maybe too comforting.
If Ms. Nina ever wakes up, she might be disappointed in me. At first, I wanted to become someone worthy of her. But once my original “supervisor” left, I felt like I’d lost my way.
If not for Miss Floria, I probably would’ve gone down the same road as some of the other summoned Heroes. Maybe the teacher planned it this way—as a kind of handoff.
Still… I can’t imagine life without Ms. Nina. Not because I’m dependent, but because she’s someone I want by my side—someone I can laugh with.
Ms. Shirakaba’s probably still grounded thanks to Tizzy. Mr. Raoh had his obsession with food. The Professor had his research. All of us summoned here—cut off from our homelands—needed something to hold onto. Something that kept us sane.
If we hadn’t been given powers, we’d have ended up in the slums. Lost, desperate, forgotten.
Instead, we were granted dangerous gifts. And some of us became monsters.
A group of three boys passed by me in flashy, outdated clothes. Judging by their height, they were probably middle schoolers.
I thought they looked ridiculous—but I understood the need to act tough.
People like that often move in threes. Alone, they feel anxious. Two people can get awkward. With four or more, someone has to lead. But three feels “just right.” Justice and his friend were a duo, though. Maybe that made them different.
* * *
”No, you still can’t meet her. But don’t worry—she’s waking up little by little. We’re almost there. Just don’t do anything to throw it off.”
Ms. Mahal still wouldn’t let me see Ms. Nina.
I imagined her—floating in a glass capsule, her form pale and serene.
Of course, it wouldn’t sit well with others. Seeing her in that weakened, exposed state, with tubes and fluids… it wouldn’t feel right.
Miss Floria never leaves the house without makeup. Tizzy’s fussy about her hair. Even Shea-Shea scolds me when I dress sloppily. Appearances do matter, especially when tied to one’s status.
I thought about seeing a disheveled Ms. Nina just once… but no. I want her to stay just as she always was.
Princess Auroora, for example, was always perfectly put together—never forgetting her subtle makeup. That kind of polish is expected from nobility.
I’m no exception. Even if I’m a man, fancy clothes alone won’t cut it forever.
”It’s not like I mean any harm. If she truly didn’t want to see me, I wouldn’t force it.”
I’d like to send a letter. Something. But even that’s off the table. For now, I have to focus on slowly raising my level of awareness, one step at a time.
When the moment comes, I’ll drop everything and stay by her side. Until then, I’ll handle everything else.
* * *
”Oh, look at you. Becoming a man who understands women, huh? If I were ten years younger, I might’ve fallen for you. Just kidding.”
Ms. Mahal laughed as she handed me a small sack full of empty magic stones.
”The ones we have now should be enough, but since you’re here, may as well top them off.”
That kind of slyness was typical of her. I didn’t mind.
Pii-Pii’s mana was completely depleted, so I couldn’t count on her for stone refills right now.
I was drowning in errands. When in doubt, I always ran to Uno. I wanted to visit the spirits too.
As I leisurely headed back to Miss Floria’s mansion, a luxurious carriage approached from behind. I moved aside instinctively.
I recognized the crest—but couldn’t quite place it. Nobles are supposed to memorize these. I really should make a database with my EditorSkill someday.
The carriage came to a stop beside me. The door opened.
”Well, well, Your Majesty. What brings you here, wandering around like this?”
”Ugh… Your Eminence.”
Of course. That crest belonged to the Great Temple. The Cardinal himself.
”Get in.”
”No, I’ve got an errand—”
”I said get in.”
His voice dropped. Though he acted like a saint in public, the Cardinal was more of a tyrant—an Oda Nobunaga type. If angered, he could remove even favored ministers from the picture. Permanently.
Fortunately, one of Miss Floria’s maids saw me being whisked away. I asked her to deliver a message, explaining I’d been dragged off on short notice.
Miss Floria was sharp. She’d figure it out. Still, she’d probably be upset. And I wasn’t even at fault.
I thought we’d be heading to the Great Temple. But instead, the carriage took a different path—toward the city gates.
”Um… aren’t we going the wrong way?”
”I need to speak with Donovan. We’re headed for the Keras Temple in the Holy Sabroa Kingdom. Since I had some things to discuss with you, I figured I’d bring you along.”
”…I see.”
From the Cardinal’s perspective, this probably was his version of friendliness. People in power tend to have… unusual social senses. That’s how comedic tragedies are born. And those beneath them just have to endure it.
I might be a king now, but to the Cardinal, I’m barely worth noticing. All I could do was sit there and smile.
* * *
”First off, congratulations on your engagement. I hear Duke Mineley’s youngest daughter is a real beauty. Well done. That land is quite the treasure. There’ll be another twist to come, but don’t worry—I’ll handle it.”
He smiled darkly.
How did he know about the engagement with Tizzy? It hadn’t even been announced yet. As expected from the Great Temple.
I didn’t like the sound of that “next twist,” but if he wanted to deal with it himself, I wouldn’t complain. Though… I was curious.
* * *
”Oh, and by the way, the summoned Heroes finally did it. A village near the capital has vanished under mysterious circumstances. The ones who broke the taboo have been exiled to an island. It shouldn’t concern you.”
I’d expected the summoned Heroes to mess up eventually… but I thought it’d be the Professor’s group. They had decent people, relatively speaking.
And yet, here we were.
”What is a taboo? Just what in the world did they do?”
”It’s the sin of raising too many livestock. One night was all it took—everything in the village vanished. That’s what happens when you ignore the voice of God.”
In this world, there exists a divine rule: raise too many animals, and your entire village might disappear without a trace. I know this story well. I’ve studied it extensively before.
Without a doubt, a flying whale was involved. That creature possesses a strange power, and to devour a village is nothing to it.
The Hero Farm that disappeared had been a modern poultry operation, developed by the Professors. They were raising thousands of chickens using advanced systems. The temple had apparently sent several warnings, urging them to scale back. But the Professor scoffed, dismissing the warnings as baseless superstition.
Recently, the business side of the farm was handed over to a group of merchants, while the Professor secluded himself in an apartment in the royal capital. Thanks to that, he avoided being swallowed up. Still, he might end up exiled as punishment for his negligence. Knowing him, though, if he’s allowed to live near the sea, he’ll probably be pleased. He loves fish more than anything. I think the others share that enthusiasm, though in slightly different ways. So it should work out.
Only Ms. Shirakaba and Mr. Raoh seem to be outliers. Everyone else, aside from the Professor, didn’t seem to matter much in the grand scheme of things.
It was sheer luck that the whale didn’t head toward the royal capital.
According to the cardinal, the ancient towns and districts still follow the doctrines of the great temple to the letter. That’s why they remain unharmed. And if the capital were ever damaged, they’d likely blame it on having strayed from divine teachings.
To me, what matters most is that Ms. Nina and Miss Floria are safe. I do feel sorry for the merchants who disappeared… but the sorrow doesn’t run very deep.
Is this what comes from killing so many during the war? Am I turning into someone heartless?
Still, I haven’t fallen into corruption. Maybe I should talk to Ms. Erin. Not for counseling exactly—just… I want a dependable adult woman to be there for me right now. Someone warm. I had wanted to see Miss Floria tonight, but thanks to the cardinal, those plans were ruined. I’m honestly bitter about it.
* * *
After leaving the royal capital, the carriage suddenly stops jolting. The wheels now glide over a road made from neatly placed concrete slabs.
”This is so smooth… I wish the road all the way to the capital—or better, to the great temple—was like this.”
”Don’t even think about asking for free labor.”
Infrastructure work is always tangled up in vested interests and high costs. They say a donation could make things happen, but once you go down that road, there’s no turning back. If you let people take advantage of you once, they’ll never stop. Miss Floria warned me about that very firmly.
Doing something for free—even if it’s good—can come back to bite you. Even someone as thick as me has finally learned that lesson. It’s not those who exploit who are at fault. It’s those who allow themselves to be used. At least, that’s how it works here.
”As expected, we can’t push your territory any further toward the royal capital. The Holy Kingdom’s officials are just dead weight. Should we get the Merchant Guild to relocate again?”
”They’ve been helping maintain the canal. Sea transport beats horse-drawn carts by a mile.”
In only a short time, the center of commerce has started shifting from the capital to the Sabroa Dukedom. The royal capital will still hold value as a consumption hub, but the warehouse district I built will soon replace it as the region’s logistics core. It’s just more convenient.
I don’t get all the political power games, but thanks to my cheat ability, I can handle infrastructure development well enough.
The capital’s old streets can’t expand any further. Until now, people just lived with the inconvenience. No one questioned it. But once merchants experience how efficient the Sabroa Dukedom is, they won’t tolerate the capital’s traffic mess anymore.
Some merchants will insist on staying in the capital, sure. But the logistics cost difference is real. At this pace, their rivals will drive them out.
I never expected that building a warehouse district and a few roads could trigger such a large economic shift. Back in Japan, roadwork was often seen as shady political graft. I always thought it was suspicious.
But here? Creating infrastructure how I want is actually kind of fun. It’s more flexible than those city-building games I used to play.
The cardinal and the Merchant Guild leaders love money, so they obediently follow the words of their golden goose. As long as the economy keeps growing, the country will be fine.
”I know it’s tough right now. But once people get a taste of how smooth this ride is…”
This carriage has springs built into it, and thanks to the concrete road, there’s barely any shaking. It’s so comfortable, it feels luxurious. One day, I’d like everyone to enjoy this level of travel. Maybe railroads are the next step.
Instead of taking the long detour around the swamp, we travel directly through the new toll road.
We flash a pass card at the magical reader. The gate opens automatically. It’s like an ETC system from Japan, but no actual toll is collected.
Pass cards are issued to shareholders based on the number of shares they own. Mr. Raoh handles all of that.
Naturally, the gates aren’t unattended. Soldiers armed with spears are stationed at the guard post. They’re doing well. Solid work.
”Speaking of this highway—it’s a huge success! Next time we build something similar, make sure to get the Great Temple involved from the start.”
Even if we call it a highway, it’s just a short test section—barely a hundred meters long—built like a bridge over a swamp with no bottom. A dangerous area I once stumbled into. If we can safely cross it now, it’s a big deal. The cost was steep, though.
Following Mr. Raoh’s suggestion, we set up a corporation to raise funds. For a first attempt, things are going smoothly.
Share distribution is: Merchant Guild 40%, Great Temple 30%, and we hold the remaining 30%, if I remember right. They mentioned something about voting rights, but it went over my head. I think they made the Merchant Guild the largest shareholder on purpose—to show off the appeal of stock trading.
Raoh used to do something similar in Japan. He came to me offering his skills and asked to become a vassal.
He says he wants to launch a stock exchange one day, but honestly, I’d prefer he focused on starting a proper bank. Right now, I’m handling the mint myself, and it’s tough.
Here, minting coins is a ruler’s right—but I’m probably the only one doing it by hand.
”Sure, investing can be profitable—but there’s always risk, remember?”
If the stock crashes and people blame me, I won’t survive the backlash. At least, I should warn them.
”You wouldn’t let me lose money, would you? Hahaha. Just kidding. I get it. You just need to sell before it tanks.”
It’s not wrong… but it sounds like he’s playing a game. If it makes him happy, though, I guess that’s fine.
”Stocks are a way to gather unused capital and accelerate development…”
I’m parroting what I heard from Raoh. Honestly, I don’t get it. But it’s basically selling debt, right?
If I were rich, I’d use my own funds and keep all the profit. But I have too many ideas and not enough money. Better to get wealthy investors onboard now than wait decades.
Also, by involving the Great Temple and the Merchant Guild, I bind them to me through shared interests. They’re far more reliable this way than as loose allies.
I have to show them that working with me leads not only to quick profits but also massive future gains. A wise miser won’t kill the goose that lays golden eggs.
”For the good of the people and the progress of the world—a noble cause. But as long as I profit, that’s enough. You could even call it divine protection.”
Their greed is almost impressive. If someone like that is at the top of the clergy, God must have it rough.
”Oh, and about the calendar thing. That could turn a profit, too. Let’s say the Great Temple will handle the official version. Once it’s ready, give it to Donovan. And don’t tell the Merchant Guild just yet.”
Just before reaching the Keras Temple, another problem surfaces. Of course, it’s Raoh’s doing.
There hasn’t been a proper calendar in this world for ages. No months, no dates. Long-term plans are vague, often just “next year.” Credits tend to settle around the summer solstice.
It’s quaint in a way, but Raoh finds it frustrating.
He keeps saying we need a monthly system and more financial liquidity. The Cardinal and the Merchant Guild have been discussing it seriously.
I’m supposed to be the legendary Stargazer, and the calendar is technically my job. When the Cardinal asked, I just said it would be easy.
In terms of raw skill, I could do it. But actually creating one? That’s another story.
There are a few tiny moons here, but nothing like Earth’s big one. They’re not consistent or even well-known. Maybe I should pretend the moons don’t exist and just split the year evenly. But even that’s a pain to figure out.
And I’m already swamped with work. I really don’t want another thing on my plate.
”Once it’s done, we’ll present it to His Holiness. But observing the stars takes time. Maybe next year. Or the year after.”
”What? That’s useless! I heard old stargazers finished the calendar by spring.”
Tch. I can’t just stall forever. The Cardinal knows too much.
But finishing it by year’s end is impossible unless I hole up in the Valley of Trials.
”Their accuracy came from decades of observation. Since all that’s been lost, we’ll need to wait for a leap year to realign…”
I’m making this up, but leap years are a real issue. If we just reset every winter solstice, it’d be easier—but that’s not how a proper calendar works.
Earth’s calendar is so efficient. One extra day every four years almost fixes everything. There’s also a hundred-year skip rule for leap years, but no one thinks about that. The system is incredible.
That ancient people created such a thing without computers? Truly amazing.
I have a cheat that lets me see the stars’ movements, but could I really create a calendar that lasts? Maybe someone else could use my data and do it for me…
”Leap years… truly, the workings of the gods. Very well. I will have the Great Temple’s archives deliver all related materials. Make sure they’re of enduring quality—fit for a thousand years.”
So that’s what they’re after. Powerful rulers who adopt accurate calendars leave their names in history. Like Mr. Gregorio.
* * *
As soon as I step off the carriage, the cardinal pulls me into a sudden hug.
Is this some kind of divine blessing? I’d prefer not to be embraced by an old man… Even a female priest would be awkward. Unless she was beautiful. Then maybe…
The new Keras Temple is bustling. Many faithful are here, kneeling as they notice the cardinal.
Are they… jealous? Do they want to be hugged by him?
”Beware the movements of the Hero Management Bureau.”
A faint voice whispers in my ear—quiet, urgent. A warning.
For a second, I thought he was going to kiss me! My heart nearly jumped out of my chest.
”May the blessing of the Keras God fall upon the ruler of Sabroa.”
This time, the cardinal raises his arms toward the sky and speaks with a commanding voice.
Shimmering light begins to swirl in the air. So this is the temple’s highest form of blessing… For a brief moment, I feel like I’ve brushed against something divine.
I recall the time I cleansed the village of the dead. Back then, light poured down from above like a waterfall, and I felt an overwhelming presence watching over me.
Yes… back then, I was truly connected to the divine.
Notes:
• Shirakaba – A paladin who seems to be a skilled fighter. He’s introduced as someone with a strong defense and healing abilities.
• Tizzy – Claims to be Duke’s daughter, a noble with advanced magic skills. MC and Ms. Shirakaba lover.
• Ms. Nina – Doll Princess (Auroora 217), renamed by the protagonist. Beautiful blonde, ~168 cm, slim waist. Wears adventurer attire. Made from artificial parts and wooden limbs, resembling a princess. Knowledgeable, can read, write, and use basic healing magic. Reliable partner, often saves the protagonist with her skills.
• Nina – Doll Princess (Auroora 217), renamed by the protagonist. Beautiful blonde, ~168 cm, slim waist. Wears adventurer attire. Made from artificial parts and wooden limbs, resembling a princess. Knowledgeable, can read, write, and use basic healing magic. Reliable partner, often saves the protagonist with her skills.
• Kasgar – The capital of Duke Mineley Territory. Located in a mining region, it is known for its acetylene lamps and mica windows. The city is bustling, with taverns and merchants, but it lacks the exotic charm of the royal capital.
• Ms. Claire – 22-year-old centaur attendant to Joa, with a chestnut horse body and wavy hair. Level 18 mounted archer. Recently enslaved, retains her own will. Her bow skills are sealed due to subservience. Bought by the protagonist as a companion, alongside Joa
• Miss Floria – Elegant, silver-haired noblewoman in her 40s, referred to as an ‘older sister’. Judge of the Supreme Court and Baroness. Former tutor of Princess Auroora. Initially stern but warms up, showing a playful side. Close with Ms. Nina (Princess Auroora’s doll copy), treating her like a sister. Trustworthy and explains legal matters clearly.
• Ms. Mahal – A talented alchemist and old friend of Mr. Zenom’s; she is knowledgeable about homunculi and leads the protagonist to a secret underground passage.
• Mahal – A talented alchemist and old friend of Mr. Zenom’s; she is knowledgeable about homunculi and leads the protagonist to a secret underground passage.
• Raoh – Pakkyamara. An infamous, scheming, but somewhat incompetent senior adventurer known for meddling with hero summoning rituals; often gets beaten up as a result. The one who want japanese food.
• Justice – The four who enter the valley of trial. A knightly character who attempts to enslave the protagonist using a subjugation skill orb.
• Shea-Shea – Mauro’s daughter. Hurt by Alexander. Became an eager fiancée after advice from protagonist.
• Donovan – Head Priest of the Great Temple. He has a newfound respect for the MC, referring to them as a ‘Saint.’ His actions suggest he is highly organized and influential within his organization.
• Keras – God of Purification in this world. While not directly involved in the narrative, Keras is referenced through the High Slime, a noble being that serves as a servant of the god. The High Slime is summoned by the protagonist due to their connection with the earth spirits and their status as a spirit vessel. A figure who purified the cursed old Toyata Village, making it a viable relocation site.
• Ms. Erin – A timeless elf living in a quiet cabin surrounded by bees, Ms. Erin is over 100 years old and once the wife of a wealthy villager. After her husband’s death, she gave up luxury to live simply, sharing rare honey with select villagers—mostly children. Graceful yet intimidating, she’s known for her mysterious beauty, ageless presence, and surprising fondness for meat. She occasionally grants small blessings to the MC—subtle enchantments or quiet words that linger with unexpected power.
• Erin – A timeless elf living in a quiet cabin surrounded by bees, Ms. Erin is over 100 years old and once the wife of a wealthy villager. After her husband’s death, she gave up luxury to live simply, sharing rare honey with select villagers—mostly children. Graceful yet intimidating, she’s known for her mysterious beauty, ageless presence, and surprising fondness for meat. She occasionally grants small blessings to the MC—subtle enchantments or quiet words that linger with unexpected power.
• Holy Kingdom – Located on the east of the continent.
Please bookmark this series and rate ☆☆☆☆☆ on here!
Edited by Kanaa-senpai.
Thanks for reading.
Leave a Reply