A Bookworm's Journey in the cardinal world ||Tensura X Ascendance of a Bookworm

Travelling to Tempest

Myne's POV

The journey from Tempest to Blumund was far from pleasant. The road was fraught with danger, with monsters attacking us frequently. Fortunately, Ferdinand and his knight, Eckhart, managed to fend off most of them, ensuring our safety. But the journey was rough, the road bumpy, and sleep was a luxury we could barely afford. Ferdinand and Eckhart took turns staying awake, keeping watch over us as we traveled through the perilous wilderness.

Feeling useless and wanting to contribute, I decided to help Mom and Tulli with cooking. Even without proper utensils, my recipes were well received, bringing some comfort to our weary group. Despite the hardships, the meals we shared lifted our spirits, a small reminder of home amidst the uncertainty.

After what felt like an eternity, we finally reached Blumund. Ferdinand, in disguise, managed to get us through the light security without much fuss. Blumund, I quickly noticed, was somewhat better off than Ehrenfest. The commoners here, mostly adventurers, seemed to live with more freedom and less oppression from nobles than in Tempest. Ferdinand had someone to meet, so we were left to find a place to stay. We found an inn with decent beds, and each room cost 15 silver coins. We took three rooms for the night and settled in.

"So, Benno, what do you think of Blumund?" I asked as we sat in our room.

"It's better than Ehrenfest in terms of quality of life," Benno observed, his tone thoughtful. "The commoners have decent wages, and they can make a living by becoming adventurers. Unlike Ehrenfest, where only nobles have such privileges."

I nodded in agreement. "There's more opportunity here, more chances to move up."

"Are you thinking of opening a business here, Benno?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.

"Maybe," he replied, rubbing his chin. "But the initial capital would be high, and I'd need to research what goods are in demand. Plus, people need to be able to afford them."

"True, but we can start by gathering information. How about we go meet some merchants and see what's in demand?" I suggested.

"Absolutely. We might as well make the most of our time here since we'll be leaving tomorrow."

"Be careful and come back safely," Mom warned us as we prepared to leave.

"I'll come with you, Myne!" Lutz exclaimed, eager to join the adventure.

"Alright, let's research our new market!" I replied cheerfully, and with that, we set off to explore the town.

Ferdinand's POVFerdinand's

My mission in Blumund was to meet Baron Velyard, a man of high intelligence and strategic insight. He had personally met Rimuru and negotiated a defense pact with him, gaining access to Tempest's coveted potions, which were in high demand. Despite the church's edict against dealing with monsters, the market operates on supply and demand, and such valuable goods couldn't be ignored.

As I walked through Blumund, I couldn't help but notice the improvements since my last visit. What was once a town barely above the lower district of Ehrenfest was now steadily growing, thanks in no small part to its alliance with Tempest. Blumund's gamble on the rising nation had paid off, and the town was flourishing as a result. My mission, I realized, was more important than I initially thought. Even if we couldn't open diplomatic channels, trade with Tempest could still be established through third parties while maintaining the protection of the church.

I arrived at Baron Velyard's mansion, which, though humble compared to the noble estates of Ehrenfest, was still respectable.

"Welcome, Lord Ferdinand, to my humble abode. I hope your journey was well?" Baron Velyard greeted me warmly.