In a Different World as a Side Character

Chapter 2 - Ace William and the Guild

"I-Is that the case...? I'm very sorry to hear such news..." said Helmer-san.

"Yes. Lumiere-san... No, I'm not her traveling companion anymore, which means I'm back to being her butler. I'll call her Lumiere-sama once again. Anyway, she wanted her departure to be swift and conspicuous, so she refrained from telling anyone other than me. I hope you don't take offense to her decision."

"Oh, no, not at all. I completely understand Lumiere-sama's decision. But why should you be the one to fulfill this mission, Zero-sama? Can't you just hire Adventurers to do the job?"

"No... We can't trust outsiders this time. If the duke's condition gets leaked, some of his rivals will surely try to take advantage of the situation. I'm the only one who can do this..." I replied. "Ah, please keep that a secret, Helmer-san."

"Of course, of course. Well, I don't even know where you and Lumiere-sama are from, but I will not pry."

"You're very kind."

With that said and done, I handed in the payment for the extension of my stay. Compared to other inns, Cathedral Insomnia was a bit on the expensive side. However, the quality of the rooms along with their service made it quite worth it.

I don't know how long the money Lichtia-sama gave me will last, but I should probably start working as an Adventurer to earn them back. I don't think I'll be in this kingdom for long, so I should also make preparations for travel.

"Do you know the way to the guild?" he asked in concern.

"Yes, you don't have to worry. I'll be on my way now." I slightly bowed in thanks.

After eating lunch at a nearby place, I made my way to Ilram City's guild. While walking, I had fun looking at the local appearances of the people like a tourist. Of course, I immediately realized that I look like them now, in terms of clothes. Simple and practical, kinda like the outfits you'll see NPCs wearing from a game set in medieval times. This was perfectly in tune with how the city's architecture looks like. Although, I'm sure things are more sophisticated in the capital city of Zephyrine.

If I were to mirror them with the humans of Earth, then western people, like Europeans, might be a good comparison. That said, I've never been out of Japan, so I'm not completely sure. It's not like I've consumed enough foreign media to say anything with confidence.

"Welcome! Oho, it seems like we have another young gun on the scene!" A pretty girl behind the reception counter greeted me like a customer.

I witnessed the interior of Ilram City's Guildhouse as I opened the saloon door. Adventurers were scattered everywhere. Some were eating around the dining area while some were looking over the huge quest board.

Because of the receptionist's loud welcome, many eyes were instantly drawn toward me. I felt a bit uncomfortable, but I should probably get used to it soon. 

Before I came in, it looks like she was attending to a guy who seemed to be about my age.

"I assume you want to register as an Adventurer, too?" she asked as I approached.

"Yes..."

"Welcome, welcome! Ohh, it's rare to see a person from the Eastern Empire to be here in Zephyrine."

The Eastern Empire. From what I recall, it consists of several eastern countries unified under one emperor. Given the similarities between Earth and Dunia, I guess humans from that place look a lot like Asians.

"Oh... Maybe I was born there, but as far as I can remember, I've been raised in a different land."

"Is that so? Well, your origins don't really matter. The calling of an Adventurer doesn't choose! And your timing is great. Another youngster just came in to get registered."