Chapter 117

Chapter 89 Arrival at the Royal City

The Kingdom of Eisenberg is a stunningly magical country.

Even though it was only mid-February, the climate here was already like early spring. The snow quietly melted under the warm light, streams flowed merrily in the spring, the sky was a deep blue that soothed the soul, and clouds dotted the sky, complementing the fertile soil below. This was a sight never seen in the perennially winter-bound Vallon Empire.

From the moment I stepped into the first town after crossing the border by rhinoceros cart, I was captivated by the architectural marvels here.

Square and magnificent houses, simple yet elegant facades, vibrant colors well-coordinated, grand yet romantic designs—everywhere I looked, from large towns to small villages, exquisite villas with classical charm were scattered among lush trees. The intricate designs were everywhere, making me feel as if I had escaped all earthly noise, giving me a sense of tranquility and distance. This also reflected the country’s wealth.

Carlos told me that Eisenberg was not only the country with the highest population mobility in the West but also one of the oldest countries in human history. Its establishment even dated back to before the Gregorian calendar, during the time when humans first gained the power of order.

Back then, Eisenberg was just a city-state, which is now known as the Orderly Royal City. At that time, it was called Canri. It was one of the few ancient civilizations that survived the epic war against the dragon race. After thousands of years of沉淀, it has grown to its current scale and achievements.

It has the world’s best education system and many renowned academies. Many nobles from other countries, as well as some wealthy and capable commoners, try every means to send their children here for various forms of education. Two of the most famous are the Architecture Academy located in the northern city of Christroden, and the Royal Academy of the Orderly Royal City, which is the eternal hallmark of Eisenberg.

This is where I am about to enroll.

On the afternoon of February 13th, the rhinoceros cart arrived at the capital of Eisenberg—the Orderly Royal City. There was no delay along the way, and we arrived two days earlier than expected.

Apart from my bottom being sore from sitting on the cart, everything went smoothly.

“Little Hill, we’re almost there.”

Hearing Carlos’ words, I sat up straight immediately and lifted the curtain to peek outside.

The twilight poured down.

In the distance on the green plains, a towering white city came into view.

The city was enveloped in a massive transparent protective shield, as if draped in a gossamer golden veil. Under the sunlight, it reflected a rainbow-like spectrum of colors.

“Oh…”

I couldn’t help but exclaim.

At this moment, I finally felt the real sensation of being in a magical world.

Is this what they call the “eggshell”? What is the principle behind it? Magic!?

How amazing!

“What is that!”

I turned around excitedly, tugging at Carlos’ sleeve, while pointing out the window.

“Stop shaking…” Carlos gently pushed my hand away, smiling at me, “Isn’t it spectacular?”

“What is that? Magic?”

“Magic? What do you mean by magic?” Carlos looked puzzled, “That is the ‘Boswell’ of the Orderly Royal City. The Holy Church requested the greatest miracle from the gods… um, how many years ago was it… maybe over six hundred years ago… to protect the city from any evil and ensure its standing for millennia… yes, according to legend.”

I frowned upon hearing this.

“Really?”

“Ah… Actually, it’s just a barrier that keeps people out. Many people jokingly call it an eggshell. Only those carrying a special item given by the royal city can enter…” Carlos took out a silver badge from his pocket and waved it in front of me, “Here, this is it.”

I snatched the badge and held it in my palm to examine it closely.

The surface of the badge was rough with uneven edges, and a crudely etched sword pattern marred its appearance. The craftsmanship seemed very crude, completely contrary to the refined aesthetic of this country.

“…Silver?”

“No.” Carlos shook his head, “Not entirely. It contains some… remnants of a god? In short, something like that. But mostly it’s silver, and there should be other metals too. How it’s made is a secret of the royal city; I think it must be a very complex method. Look at how ugly it is…”

It was indeed ugly.

I turned the badge over several times in my hand, feeling more and more that it was overly unattractive, losing all interest. I was about to return it to Carlos when he waved his hand.

“It’s yours. Although it’s ugly, in the royal city, it’s a symbol of residency. Without it, you’ll face many troubles… Oh, I forgot to tell you, you were registered as a resident of the royal city two months ago. This badge was personally sent by Queen Elizabeth to the church. And only the nobles in the royal city have silver badges; ordinary badges are made of brass.”

“…Oh.”

I nodded and put the badge in my waist pouch.

The horned carriage jolted as it crossed the emerald grassland and entered a small fortress at the foot of the royal city. Carlos identified himself and his purpose to the silver-armored guards on duty. After showing them the badge, they bowed to us.

They arranged another horned carriage exclusive to the royal city for us to transfer to. Once we both got in, it slowly drove toward the entrance of the royal city.

“Ordinary horned carriages, even those exclusive to the church, cannot enter the royal city. The badge only guarantees individual entry. Only royal city carriages can pass through.”

Only royal city carriages… Can this barrier recognize the type of vehicle?

I looked up, about to ask him, but Carlos spoke first, “Don’t ask why, I don’t know.”

“Uh…”

His words left me speechless.

…Why is this person so impatient?

Shouldn’t someone like me, a brave man, feel honored to ask him questions!

I felt indignant but didn’t know how to vent my frustration, so I glared at him fiercely.

I’ll remember this, yes.

This is the 165th time Carlos has annoyed me, and I haven’t had my revenge yet.

“Perhaps the interior of this carriage also contains some god’s remnants… If you’re interested, you can ask Queen Elizabeth.” Noticing my expression, Carlos immediately tried to appear casual, “Anyway, tomorrow I’m going to take you to meet her… Ah, she’s a headache-inducing woman… tsk.”

My eyebrows shot up, and my gaze hardened.

Seeing this, Carlos quickly moved away nonchalantly, “I wasn’t talking about you.”

…That’s better.

But… a headache-inducing woman? Is he referring to that queen?

Something seemed off. I thought I saw a hint of… annoyance or… apprehension in his eyes.

This stirred my curiosity.

What kind of person could make Carlos, who usually doesn’t care about anything, look like this?