Chapter 92: Blessed Side Quest 2
TL/Editor: Raei
Schedule: 5/Week Wed-Sun
Illustrations: Posted in discord.
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It seemed that just as there were many adventurers who were fond of me, there were also many knights who regarded me favorably.
Just as the priests of the temple maintained their faith without corruption, most of the kingdom's knights revered chivalry and honor, valuing camaraderie above all.
Essentially, they were a group of sweaty, muscle-bound men.
My imposing stature and well-defined muscles had earned me their affection.
As an adventurer who had never abandoned a comrade, I had their respect.
The only downside might be that these muscle-bound knights tend to cling a bit too affectionately.
In my view, I wasn't particularly noble-minded or heroic.
After all, I was just a military service returnee who became obsessed with a female character in 'Heroines Chronicle', only to reincarnate in another world.
There's no way I would have any heroic qualities.
I just aimed for benefits without getting hurt.
But, given my 6 status, my threshold for "not getting hurt" was far greater than most.
"So, at that time, Roland, that guy!"
"Sullivan, has your swordsmanship improved or just your chatter?"
"My muscles have definitely grown too, see! And call me James."
"I don't want to, it feels informal"
"Ha! You're just shy."
Yet these muscular guys, unaware of the reality, see me as the most honorable man in the world, which can be a bit overwhelming.
If they were criticizing me out of malice, I could have brushed it off.
But when they showered me with over-the-top praises, it was almost embarrassingly overwhelming.
Moreover, every time I spent a passionate night with the beauties of the capital, they'd praise me as a 'true man who understands women,' doubling my embarrassment.
Seeing Grace listening intently to his exaggerated tales of me gives me a headache.
There he is, flaunting his bulging biceps.
Indeed, those muscles of his are notably larger than Irene's head.
If my physique is reminiscent of a Greek statue, his would be a miniature Hulk.
"Did you come all the way here to talk about the request?"
"Huh? Um, yes."
"Why do you say it like that?"
"To be honest, there's not much to discuss, I just ran over to grab a drink."
"...You ran over?"
"Just a day's distance by carriage. Thought I'd get a workout, so I ran since morning. Took a bath, and waited for you."
No surprise the stables were empty even though he was around.
James Sullivan, who was showing off his muscles and chatting away, finally took his seat properly.
Just being around such an enthusiastic, muscle-bound man was exhausting.
The party members, who had been listening to my highly exaggerated tales, now gazed at him with bright eyes.
Considering the order, I thought the secret of the 'Saint Candidate' would be unveiled before that of the 'Sword Princess'.
Of course, it might not come to light even after reaching the capital.
Her current reaction felt like... a teaser for an unfolding story.
Irene, who had been listening politely, noticed Kaiden's distant expression.
"Oh my, Kaiden? Are you tired...?"
"Ah, yes?"
"You must be tired from the day's carriage ride. How about you go up and rest? We can send food to your room."
The vacant gaze, the restless fingers, and lips slightly parted more than usual.
Upon hearing the term 'noble princess', Kaiden's face turned pale.
Irene, thinking it was the after-effects of the carriage journey, offered a gentle smile.
The usual Kaiden would have just silently held her ground, insisting she was fine.
However, noticeably affected by the mention of 'princess', she gives a faint nod.
"I'll head up and rest for a bit."
With a humble bow, Kaiden wobbly makes her way up the stairs, disappearing from view.
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Raei Translations
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Filling his stomach with a warm stew rich in meat and then spending some time web surfing in bed, the day brightens as the coachman readies the carriage again.
"Are you feeling better?"
"Yes. After resting for a full day, I'm much better."
While Irene lightly ate her soup, she stayed close to Kaiden's side, looking after her attentively.
Given that Kaiden tends to be quite reserved and doesnt talk much, she seems to think she wouldn't show his fatigue or pain.
Treating Kaiden like a stubborn child, she stays close to him.
Perhaps it's because she's in her male disguise, but she appears slightly flustered by Irene being so close, the first person to do so.
The atmosphere between the two women was growing warm and pleasant when
"Roland! Why don't you get off the carriage and run with me?"
"Are you crazy?"
James, my greatest admirer and someone who seems to have let muscles replace his brain, was trying hard to have me run by his side.
The journey from the city of adventurers to the capital takes roughly two days.
Given that this rest stop is about halfway, suggesting we run on foot for the remaining distance doesn't sound like something a sane person would say.
I understand that the carriage is just big enough for our group and can't accommodate any more, but... to suggest running.
"I prefer comfort, so you can run on your own."
"You always say that, but I know you never take the easy path! Your perfect physique is proof!"
"Ugh, damn it."
That was when I naively relied on my strong body and acted recklessly.
Now, I simply want to sit back in the carriage and catch up on the videos I've missed.
From various game streams to playthroughs of games I'm not familiar with, there's so much to watch.
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