I’m an Appraiser, But What the Heck is a [Divine Eye]? ~I Want to Live Freely as the World’s Best Beginner Class~ - Episode 218: Hot Springs, Hospitality, and Trouble 18

Episode 218: Hot Springs, Hospitality, and Trouble 18

After everyone placed their belongings in their respective rooms, they returned to the gathering spot with the guide.  

Some knights and soldiers stayed behind at the inn to act as lookouts, so it would be a good idea to send them some refreshments later. Waiting around doing nothing can be surprisingly mentally exhausting.  

“Well then, Maki. Where do we head first? Is it to this onsen?”  

It seemed His Majesty was eager to soak in the hot springs. But first, we needed to conduct inspections of the Onsen District  and the Forest of Demons. A soak would surely feel better after working up a sweat.  

“First, we’ll inspect the Onsen District. After that, we’ll strengthen the escort and head to the Forest of Demons. I believe the onsen will be more enjoyable once we’ve worked up a little sweat. So we’ll visit it afterward.”  

“Is that so? ….. Hmm, what a pity.”  

“Hey, you there!”  

As His Majesty looked disappointed, I heard a voice that sounded like an angry shout from behind me.  

When I turned around to see what was going on…….. Ah, of course. It’s you.  

“Is there a problem?”  

” ‘Is there a problem’?! His Majesty has expressed his desire to visit this so-called *onsen* first! Isn’t it only natural to prioritize that?”  

“However, we wish for His Majesty to enjoy the onsen in the best condition possible. Which is why—”  

“Who cares about *your* convenience! Now, now, Your Majesty. Let us head to the onsen at once!”  

……..This guy is such a pain. But I must hold back. It’s not my place to deal with him.  

“What nonsense, Maguire. If Maki says it’s best to enjoy the onsen in its optimal state, then it’s only proper to follow his suggestion.”  

“…What?”  

“Maguire-sama. Are you questioning His Majesty’s judgment?”  

“O-Of course not! Ha-ha, ha-ha-ha…”  

This guy, Legerico Maguire, is none other than the father of Leyreina-san and the head of the Maguire family.  

He didn’t seem to expect a rebuttal from His Majesty and was stunned. But when Dietrich-sama questioned him about opposing His Majesty’s words, he let out a hollow laugh.  

Though he quickly retreated to the back, once he moved out of sight of His Majesty and Dietrich-sama, he shot me a glare.  

“Let’s go then, Maki.”  

“Ha-ha… Yes, let’s proceed.”  

His Majesty looked rather satisfied as he said this. But I couldn’t help wondering if he’d anticipated Legerico’s complaints. If so, it would have been nice if he’d given me a heads-up.  

As I mulled over this, we walked through the Onsen District. I occasionally paused to explain the buildings during the inspection. Despite the size of our group, the inspection was progressing smoothly…….. until *he* caused another commotion.  

“Hey! How dare you walk past His Majesty without permission!”  

“Huh? Who are you supposed to be?”  

“Coming in here and acting all high and mighty—must be some noble, huh?”  

“Indeed! And that gentleman is none other than the ruler of the Kingdom of Adelreed—”  

“Well, you’ve sure gone out of your way to come all the way here.”  

“Alicia-sama’s got her hands full with this bunch. Hang in there, Maki!”  

The people who passed by were adventurers I’d grown acquainted with. While they looked puzzled at the sudden presence of such a large group, they were kind enough to step aside by the wall.  

However, to Legerico, even that wasn’t sufficient. Honestly, I wish he’d notice he’s the only one shouting here.  

His Majesty had been enjoying the inspection so far. But thanks to this outburst, his expression grew tense.  

“Dietrich.”  

“Yes, Your Majesty!”  

His Majesty whispered something into Dietrich-sama’s ear. Afterward, Dietrich-sama approached Legerico and spoke to him. Legerico’s eyes widened in shock before he repeatedly bowed toward His Majesty.  

But even then, he didn’t forget to glare at me one last time before leaving.  

…….No, seriously. This has nothing to do with me.  

I wanted to say that, but causing unnecessary trouble would only lead to more issues later. So I swallowed my complaints.  

“Well then, I’d like to proceed with the inspection of the Forest of Demons. While we’ve already cleared out some threats using soldiers from Granzawall, nothing in this world is ever absolute. To account for any unlikely scenarios, I propose limiting this inspection to volunteers.”  

“I shall go, Maki.”  

“I will accompany you as well, Maki-sama.”  

Almost as soon as I finished my explanation, His Majesty and Dietrich-sama both volunteered to join.  

Now, I wonder how the others will respond…… especially Legerico.