Another month slipped by—just me, living my daily routine in this strange world.
I'd heard the news: Ramon hadn't found a suitable replacement for Kyle. In the end, the Hero Party decided to continue as a four-member team.
Even so, they had already cleared more dungeons than any party in recorded history. They were strong—undeniably strong. Strong enough that the whole kingdom believed they could take on the Demon Lord himself.
_And just like that, everything felt… normal._
Miss Sera still invited me to train from time to time, though lately she seemed preoccupied. Most of my days were spent holed up in the Royal Library—either reviewing requests or reading random books just to kill time.
"I heard it's almost time for the Hero Party to depart for Sunderhold, the border city… From there, they'll cross into the demon realm."
_So, it's finally happening…_
They've grown so much. All that's left now is the final battle. And once it's over… I guess I'll finally get to go home too.
_Sigh..._
My thoughts were interrupted as I sifted through some reports on my desk.
"Hm? Another purchase request for mana crystals?"
Ever since Ramon and the others started retrieving dungeon cores—essentially concentrated mana crystals—their value skyrocketed. They're crucial for forging weapons, enchanting gear, and other magical applications.
I skimmed the paperwork.
"Again… Duke Kurtis Armenia?"
His name had come up repeatedly. His network spanned a significant chunk of the kingdom's merchant economy. With dwarves working under him to craft accessories and gear, his wares flooded the market like wildfire.
Funny thing is, despite being King Leontius's own brother, he rarely attends royal meetings. Prefers to stay out of politics, buried in his work.
_Can't say I blame him. If I had the chance, I'd do the same. Just become a shut-in and sleep all day._
The difference? He actually boosts the kingdom's economy. I just wastes time and joke around.
"Another day done," I mumbled, leaning back. "There's barely anything to do in the afternoons lately."
With Miss Sera busy again, and most affairs running smoothly, I was starting to wonder how to waste the rest of the day.
That's when the door to the library creaked open.
In walked Princess Maya.
"Sir Alve, are you busy?" she asked, stepping in with a curious expression.
"No… Just finished reviewing some requests," I replied casually. "Honestly, I'm just wasting time at this point."
She nodded, then smiled gently.
"Then… would you help me look into something?"
I blinked in surprise, but nodded almost instinctively.
"Sure… I'll try to, at least."