Chapter 8

Descending from the cart, Platina and Eisen walked side by side along the road leading to the city gate.

Platina was now wearing a gray robe that had been prepared in the luggage.

"If we walk around in our ceremonial clothes, people will immediately recognize us as pilgrims."

"Is that not allowed?"

In fact, since Platina was heading on a pilgrimage, it seemed there was no need to hide, but when she tilted her head in confusion, Eisen sighed in exasperation.

"Pilgrims are easy targets. Stories of them being deceived and stripped of everything are not uncommon. Especially since you are a young woman, you need to be careful."

Platina nodded vigorously as she mulled over Eisen's words.

"I understand. I will be careful!!"

"...I worry about what lies ahead..."

Despite his exasperated response, Eisen continued to share various travel tips along the way.

Not to overexert oneself. Not to accumulate too much luggage. Not to get involved with people carelessly. Not to talk about the purpose of the pilgrimage, as there are many criminals who target pilgrims.

Each piece of advice made sense, and Platina listened with wide eyes, impressed by each word Eisen said.

"You're amazing, Eisen-sama."

"...Drop the 'sama.' I'm supposed to be your attendant, you know."

"But you're going to be my travel mentor. I can't call you by your first name when I'm relying on you."

Eisen scratched his head in frustration, looked at Platina, and sighed as if giving up.

"Anyway, don't say anything unnecessary at the city gate. I'll handle all the procedures. You just stay quiet by my side."

"I understand."

"There should be a town right after the city gate. We'll prepare for our journey there."

"Yes!"

The joy of the journey truly beginning made her voice rise, but she quickly clamped her mouth shut at the soldier's disapproving black gaze.

By the time they reached the city gate, Platina was excited by the large building before her. It was her first time visiting buildings other than the castle and the temple, and everything felt fresh.

"Are you travelers?"

A man in soldier's uniform, standing in front of the large gate, called out to them. His eyes, which seemed tired and sunken, cast a suspicious glance at the two of them.

"A man and a woman. Not on an illicit journey, I hope."

(What does 'illicit' mean?)

Though she didn't understand the word, Platina instinctively hid behind Eisen at the soldier's clearly suspicious attitude.

"Of course not. We have proper permission to travel. Here is our permit."

Eisen took out two dull, metallic plates from his pocket and showed them to the soldier. The soldier glared at the plates with a displeased expression, then took them and carefully read the text on them. After a few seconds, he seemed to conclude there was no problem and threw the plates back to Eisen.

"Quite the equipment for an apothecary, and you're even traveling with a kid."

Platina recalled the cover story Eisen had told her earlier.

They were supposed to be a holy pilgrim and her knight, but to avoid causing a commotion, they were now an apothecary and his apprentice. Apothecaries were valuable and rarely mistreated.

"I sometimes hunt for ingredients, so it's natural. She may look young, but she's quite capable."

Eisen's friendly smile and natural lies made Platina's eyes widen. His demeanor was completely different from their earlier conversation.

"Hmph. Well, the permit is fine."

"Then we'll be on our way."

"...No, wait."

"Huh?"

Eisen, who was about to pass through the gate, was blocked by the soldier.

"Why are you blocking us? Do you have any suspicions?"

Eisen's voice had slightly lowered, and Platina held her breath. Eisen had just told her that some corrupt soldiers might demand bribes and create trouble even with proper permits. Could this be one of those cases?

(What should we do... Should we tell the truth?)

According to Eisen, pilgrims were allowed to pass through the city gates without question. Though they had already lied, showing the ceremonial clothes under the robe might convince the soldier.

"I want some medicine."

"...What?"

The soldier's hoarse voice made Eisen respond with a puzzled look. Platina also stared at the soldier in surprise. The soldier, who had been stern a moment ago, now averted his gaze as if ashamed.

"Actually, I've had stomach trouble since yesterday. All the soldiers stationed at this gate are in the same condition. We probably got food poisoning from yesterday's meal, but we don't have much medicine. I'm the only one who can move properly."

The soldier spoke in one breath and let out a feverish sigh.

Indeed, he had looked quite pale from the start. His suspicious expression and gruff attitude could be due to his poor health.

"Actually, I'm barely standing. I'll pay. Can you give me some medicine?"

Leaning against the wall, the soldier whispered in pain. Platina and Eisen exchanged glances.

"...Wait a moment."

Eisen leaned in and whispered to Platina.

"What should we do? I have some medicine as an apothecary, but it might not be enough."

"Hmm..."

Platina looked at the soldier, who was sweating and clearly unwell.

"Alright. I'll take care of it."

"Huh?"

"Um, is there a kitchen?"

As she spoke, Platina approached the soldier.

"A kitchen?"

"Yes. Let me make some medicine."

The soldier, startled by Platina's sudden approach, pointed to a small door next to the gate, indicating that the kitchen was inside.

"Eisen-sama, please help me."

"O-oh."

Confused, Eisen followed Platina into the room. Inside was a large table, chairs, and a simple kitchen area. It seemed to be a break room and dining area for the soldiers. The sink was filled with unwashed plates, spoons, and a large pot. The pungent smell confirmed that this was the cause of their stomach troubles. The food was likely spoiled or contained something toxic.

Seeing the potential, Platina took off her robe and rolled up her sleeves.