Chapter 40

If I’m the strongest individual in one-on-one combat, then Kasugal is the strongest in group battles.

The Empire would definitely not want to make an enemy out of him.

Even if they can’t make him an ally, they surely don’t want to antagonize him.

If they had to, they could eventually defeat me by overwhelming me with numbers, accepting some sacrifices.

But Kasugal is different.

He could burn the entire imperial army to ashes. No joke.

Even through armor with excellent magic resistance.

That’s why the shrewd princess wouldn’t dream of abandoning Kasugal.

The fact that this prime piece of property in the Imperial Capital was bought by an adventurer with a dubious background is proof of that.

The princess currently holds considerable power within the Empire.

Rumors of her secret struggle with the Crown Prince, the heir apparent, are widespread.

She must have known when Kasugal tried to buy this land.

The princess adds plenty of milk and sugar to her tea.

She has a sweet tooth when no one’s watching. She claims it’s because her brain uses up so much sugar.

“It’s been a while, Princess Sanarie. And nice to meet you, Princess.”

Kasugal stands and bows to the two royals.

Both remain seated as they accept his greeting.

“You seem to be doing well. If this shop continues like this, it will become very popular in the Imperial Capital.”

“Thank you.”

The princess picks up a fork, cuts a piece of cake served as a tea accompaniment, and smiles as she takes a bite.

“The food was delicious. This cake is exquisite.”

“I made it. I’m glad it suits your taste.”

“I’ll have another.”

The princess finishes her cake and hands the plate to one of my slaves.

Arnella serves another cake to the princess.

Arnella seems to have become quite comfortable around the princess.

In the back, Mastema is sneaking a piece of cake.

Well, whatever…

“I had business with Ahavain as well, but I haven’t seen you since then. When you have children, come to the Imperial Palace to visit. If you like, I can name them for you.”

“That would be an honor… yes, I will come.”

The conversation progresses amicably.

I remain silent.

I’m only here because the princess dragged me along.

It’s not that the princess and Kasugal have a bad relationship, but with a single word from Kasugal, not just the princess, but the entire Imperial Capital could be set ablaze. That terrifies her.

Kasugal himself isn’t that scary of a person, but if he loses his temper, there’s no stopping him.

If the princess properly faces Kasugal, he would gladly dedicate himself to this country. He just wants to live peacefully after all the hardships he’s endured.

The meeting ends, and the princess and princess leave the shop.

A few people came over just to greet them, but no nobles dared to push past Kasugal and me.

If it were only Kasugal, they might have asked the host to mediate, but adding me into the mix makes it difficult.

As the banquet draws to a close, with the princesses’ departure marking the start of the end, Kasugal, Mastema, and I see off the guests.

The all-you-can-eat event outside is already over, and the cleanup has begun.

I reluctantly send the two slaves out again.

I even roped in Nia to help.

“Why? Why me, Sir Knight?”

“Who’s the dummy who forgot their invitation?”

“That would be me. I’ll go help.”

Nia, on the verge of tears, goes off to help.

Reflect on your actions. Small mistakes can erode trust.

The adventurer to succeed me will be either Nia’s party or Belgion’s large group.

Whether they like it or not, people are watching their behavior.

Belgion aside, Nia still lacks that awareness.

This is common with parties that grow rapidly, and we also struggled with it.

Well, given my strength, I’m free to do what I want, except when dealing with the princess.

After punching a royal, I felt liberated.

When I talked to Kasugal last, it seems my slave was highly regarded.

Every department wants them to come.

I won’t give them up. They are here to take care of me.

Be patient and recruit capable people yourself.

…I reminisce about our party days.

Kasugal seems much more vibrant now.

I see. Our party is over.

I never thought the day would come when I would look back on the past.

Those days of running through life have passed, never to return.

“What’s wrong, Ahavain?”

Mastema peers into my face.

“Nothing.”

I hid the hot tears streaming down my face.

Was that my youth?

“Master, shall we go home? If so, I’ll prepare a meal with the souvenirs I received.”

Noel says, showing me the basket.

Arnella has a similar one.

“Alright. Let’s go home.”

I lead the three of them, looking at the Imperial Capital bathed in the red glow of the setting sun.

When Kasugal told me about the dissolution, I thought I still had things to do.

But how about now?

Kasugal said the view from the top was good, but it wasn’t something he wanted to keep watching.

What he desired was today’s view.

He seemed happy on his different path.

Am I happy as I am?

I have status, honor, and money.

I definitely wished for a life where I wanted for nothing.

But now that I’m here, it feels different from what I imagined.

I’m not dissatisfied. Who else does the princess bow her head to for work?

…Then it hit me.

It was simple.

I find meaning in living as a challenger.

The value lies in pursuing and facing challenges.

I’ve made up my mind.

Now that I’m the strongest adventurer, the strongest warrior, my next goal is…