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 289: The Hero, the Sword Saint, and the Appraiser 30

Episode 289: The Hero, the Sword Saint, and the Appraiser 30

Despite the increase in companions, Moriya’s magic allowed us to maintain a fast pace as we traveled.

Filia-san seemed to have gotten used to flying after a while. As her screams became less frequent.

…Well, less frequent is probably the better way to put it. Low-altitude flying was fine. But whenever Moriya got cocky and increased the altitude, she couldn’t help but scream.

Honestly, even I felt like screaming when we started spinning in circles like that.

In any case, the journey was lively—whether it was enjoyable is another matter—and we eventually reached a vantage point. From there, we could finally see the royal capital of the Kingdom of Rodgrul.

“Is that… the place?” 

“Indeed. I never thought the day would come so soon when I could lay eyes on the capital again.” 

When I asked, Dirk-san responded while gazing at the royal capital with deep emotion. 

Considering he’s the crown prince, being driven out of his own capital must have been a bitter pill to swallow. His feelings now must be overwhelming.

“We plan to sneak in and capture Maria, but what about you?” 

“I will take back the capital, even at the cost of my life.” 

Though Dirk-san and his group had joined us, their objectives were slightly different from ours. 

Our goal was to capture or eliminate Maria-san, rescue the student council president plus the other, and, if they resisted, subdue and secure them. 

Dirk-san’s goal was straightforward: reclaim the royal capital. 

We could act separately. But if they were to die because of that decision, it would leave a bad taste in my mouth. 

In the end, there’s really no choice, is there?

“That’s practically a suicide mission.” 

“I have no intention of dying so easily.” 

“I will protect Dirk-sama with my life!” 

“If you die protecting him, that would make things awkward for everyone.” 

“Eh?” 

At Filia-san’s declaration, I sighed softly and made a suggestion.

“Why not come with us?” 

“That’s a generous offer, but……… are you sure?” 

“Like I told Filia-san, I’d feel awful if anyone died. If we stick together, our chances of survival increase. And we’ll also have a better shot at achieving our goals.” 

That’s what my Appraisal results indicated, anyway.

“Hmm… but if we accept, we’ll owe you even more than we already do.” 

“You can repay the Adelreed Kingdom bit by bit. It doesn’t even have to be in your generation—leave it to the next one.” 

“That sounds like an enormous debt. But given the circumstances, it’s the best option.” 

“It’s the only option. If you don’t, both of you will definitely die.” 

“”——!?”” 

At my confident declaration, both Dirk-san and Filia-san looked at me in shock and wariness.

“…Is this based on some kind of Appraisal skill?” 

“Yeah. Let’s just say it’s the power of a skill that bears the title of ‘divine’. Will you believe that?” 

Rather than trusting me personally, framing it this way might make it easier for them to believe.

“…I’ll trust it.” 

“Good. So, we’ll stick together then—” 

“But it’s not because of the divine skill. It’s because I trust you, Maki.” 

“…Huh? What do you mean by that?” 

Surprised by Dirk-san’s unexpected response, I couldn’t help but ask.

“Based on everything I’ve seen so far, there’s no reason not to trust you.” 

Filia-san nodded repeatedly. She was vigorously agreeing with Dirk-san’s statement.

“You have the Appraisal skill, magic tools, and a party full of capable people. If I didn’t ally with you now, even if I reclaimed my country, I’d go down in history as the biggest fool of a king.” 

“That’s a bit dramatic, don’t you think?” 

I meant it sincerely. But Dirk-san fixed me with a sharp glare.

“Maki, you should have more confidence in your abilities. Humility may be a virtue. But at times, it can come across as condescension.” 

“I—I didn’t mean it that way!” 

“I know. That’s why I’m telling you to have confidence.” 

“………..Got it. Thanks.” 

And so, we decided to infiltrate the royal capital of the Kingdom of Rodgrul—Rosalind—together.