In the City of McFarlane
It took four days to reach the city of McFarlane in the Lumite Grand Wing.
We weren’t flying at top speed, but it’s clearly a fair distance away.
Since this journey was meant to be a small, elite group, it’s just me, the members of the Wildcat’s Claws, Plum, Rumaja, and Plum’s maids.
I’m not sure what business Rumaja has here, but once it's done, we plan to head back to Vardmoi immediately.
Are we really here just to escort the princesses to McFarlane?
The city of McFarlane was more dignified and expansive-looking than Vardmoi.
While Vardmoi was built within the last hundred years, McFarlane has existed since before the kingdom was founded.
Because of this, its traditions and culture have evolved in unique ways, distinct even from the kingdom’s.
We don’t have time to explore now, but if I get another chance, I’d love to take a thorough look around. Who knows? I might get inspired.
"First of all,, let’s head to the Adventurers’ Guild in McFarlane."
"The Adventurers’ Guild?"
"Of course. With me here, where else would we go?"
… Right, that makes sense. Rumaja is the Grand Master of the Adventurers Guild, after all.
She led us to the guild, and upon arrival, directed us to park the Lumite Grand Wing discreetly around the back.
Given its size, it’d probably be an obstacle if left out front, so I follow her instructions without complaint.
"We’ve arrived safely. Now, you all wait in the reception room while I take care of my business."
"Wait, aren’t we staying overnight?"
"Apologies, but we’re heading right back. Fortunately, we made it here with plenty of daylight left."
Hmm, it’s not that I mind the travel, but heading back to Vardmoi without even a single night’s stay?
What on earth is the purpose of this trip?
We’re escorted to the guild’s reception room and offered tea to pass the time.
After a while, Rumaja returned, this time with guests.
"Princess Rodenlight and Princess Annette!?"
"It’s been a while, Lily. I never expected to see you here."
"It’s been a while, Lady Lily… Talat seems smaller?"
"He evolved, so his species changed. But why are the two of you here?"
"I’ll explain.”
Rumaja interjected.
She cleared her throat and began.
"The reason I wanted to borrow the Lumite Grand Wing, as I mentioned before, was to discreetly transport Her Royal Highnesses. The royal carriage convoy ‘carrying’ the princesses has already departed from this city. Our plan is to overtake it and make for Vardmoi ahead of them."
"Oh, right, you did mention wanting to transport the princesses. I didn’t think you’d actually go through with it. But is it really okay to overtake them?"
"It’s fine. That was the original plan. The week of preparation time in Vardmoi was for coordinating this operation."
I see, there was a lot happening behind the scenes.
To think we’re actually transporting the princesses… I honestly thought it was some kind of joke.
What do you think about this chapter?
