So, now I'm officially a "Licensed Adventurer Knight." Does that mean I have to be a hero by fighting monsters or searching for ancient artifacts that require me to walk for hours while battling strange things? Of course not! This is a new world, and the first thing I've learned is: if I can make a little profit, why should I make things harder for myself?
And by the way, this kingdom clearly has a lot of treasure that won't be taken anywhere. Why not take a little for myself? I mean, I don't plan on staying here forever, so why not enjoy the kingdom's amenities before I leave?
I know I have to be careful. This isn't my home, and if I get caught, I'll probably be branded as... well, maybe a thief, or worse, a "traitor to the kingdom." But seriously, who's going to know if I just "borrow" a little treasure for the trip?
I slowly walked toward the treasure vault. Of course, I already had a well-thought-out plan—wearing shoes that don't make noise and being careful not to get caught. But, who would've guessed you could steal while still looking like someone who doesn't know what's going on? I'm already an expert at this.
Once I got to the vault, I went straight for where the kingdom's legendary sword should be. Not just any sword, mind you. This was a sword made from materials that could slay a dragon with one swing. And hey, who wouldn't want to carry around such a cool sword, right? If anyone asks, I'd just say it's a "family heirloom that I happen to be carrying as a collection."
I peeked to the right and left, then opened the chest that held the sword. It shone brightly, almost as if it was greeting me. I could even hear a soft voice, like it was saying, "Come on, Aria. Take me. We'll shine together in the world of adventure." It felt like something mystical was calling me, and I almost believed the sword could talk.
After making sure no one was watching, I slowly grabbed the sword. It felt like touching a work of art. There's nothing more satisfying than feeling like a professional thief in a kingdom that doesn't even know what it has.
I could almost picture myself traveling the world with this sword, becoming a respected adventurer knight. Just a little problem—yeah, a small problem about where to hide the sword. But, ah, that's a problem for later. The important thing is, I've successfully "acquired" some royal treasure.
My footsteps were quiet, but it felt like the rush of wind bringing bad news. I tried to walk as fast as possible without looking hurried, and for some reason, I felt like I was in the middle of an action movie—everything felt dramatic, even though I was just a little thief waiting for the right moment to escape.
Suddenly, a guard appeared from around the corner.
I almost jumped, but in a flash, I put on the most innocent expression I could muster.
"Oh, what's up? I'm just... uh... checking the quality of the swords in the treasure vault. You know, as a Licensed Adventurer Knight, I need to make sure everything is in top condition before being used."
The guard stared at me for a moment, and I could see a hint of doubt in his eyes. But he just nodded without saying much and continued on his way. Oh my God, I think I'm going to get away with this.
With more confident steps, I exited the vault without any further issues. The sword stayed tightly wrapped, and I felt like a hero... a hero who was a little richer, and a little more cunning.
When I was far enough from the vault, I finally let out a sigh of relief. "Well, if they ever find out, they're definitely going to be mad. But hey, who cares? At least now I've got a cool sword and a little extra cash for my journey."
***
That morning, I woke up with a mix of emotions—relieved and panicked. The sword I had just "borrowed" from the royal treasure vault was lying beside my bed, and while I felt like a professional adventurer, there was something a little off. Maybe it was because I had just stolen royal treasure. But hey, who cares? It's a cool sword!
I looked around the room. My stuff was hastily packed, with most of my gear being clothes that were still a bit damp from last night's rain. Maybe I was rushing a bit, but what could I do? Time keeps ticking, and I haven't had a chance to tidy up anything. Looks like "Licensed Adventurer Knight" has to be more flexible. No need for details, right?
I quickly shoved a few pieces of clothing into my bag—heat-resistant clothes, survival gear, and of course, a small bottle of sauce, because who could survive without sauce?
Suddenly, I heard footsteps approaching from outside. Oh no. I looked around frantically, trying to find a place to hide the sword. No big closet, no secret room—just piles of clothes and some equipment that wouldn't even be enough to survive one night of rain.
"One thing missing, Aria! Don't tell me you've been sleeping all morning?" the coach's voice called from outside.
I hurriedly opened the window and slid the sword under the bed. Then I turned around and, with the most forced smile I could muster, said, "Oh, of course not! I was just... preparing everything very carefully, like a true knight!"
The coach opened the door and stepped in with his usual expression. "Alright, you have to be ready to leave today, Aria. Don't be late. The kingdom isn't going to wait."
I glanced at the bed, pretending everything was in order. "Of course, I'm ready. Actually, I've already tidied everything up. Look? All prepared, very meticulously and professionally."
The coach looked at me with some doubt but didn't say anything more. "Alright. Don't forget your duties. Knight can't afford to be lazy."
After the coach left, I let out a sigh of relief and grabbed the backpack I had already packed. The sword? Oh, that? Nothing to worry about. The sword was just a small part of my amazing adventure, which would take place... outside the kingdom.
I walked out of the barracks, trying to hide my nervousness with confident steps. The sun was shining brightly, the morning air felt fresh—though for me, mornings were the perfect time to sleep longer. But since I was currently playing the role of an adventurer knight, I had to look ready for anything.
Outside, some soldiers were chatting around a campfire. I turned to them and flashed a confident smile, even though it was a little forced. "Oh, you want to know why I look so awesome? It's because I'm a Licensed Adventurer Knight, ready to face this world without hesitation!" I shouted, even though inside I felt like I was admitting to being a superhero without superpowers.
One of the soldiers looked at me with a blank expression. "Hmm, are you sure that's just the sword you're carrying?"
I could only smile dryly. "Oh, that's just the kingdom's heirloom sword, which—eh, you know—it basically has to be taken by a true knight."
He nodded slowly, but I could feel a bit of confusion in his eyes. Let it be, I know what I'm doing.
Soon after, I walked away. The first adventure had begun, and while I felt a little like a villain, I was pretty sure the world was waiting for some great action from me. Great action, I mean.
As I walked toward the gate, I thought about the journey ahead. A grand adventure full of danger, wonders, and... yeah, I guess there would be plenty of moments where I'd have to survive with my limited survival skills—especially if I had to face other kingdoms that were even more dangerous.
But whatever it was, I was ready to face it all... as long as I could avoid too many questions about that sword.