"See that, miss? The grand fortress city up ahead!"
After half a month's journey without any mishaps, the coachman's voice brimmed with satisfaction.
"Closest to the border defense line, boasting the kingdom's top prosperity, it's also the nation's most dangerous capital, Border City!"
There was a hint of pride in the coachman's tone.
Although unable to respond to the coachman's words, the Hero peeked out from the carriage window and, as she brushed her wind-tossed bangs aside, couldn't help but show a look of admiration.
On the distant horizon, the magnificent giant city was already in sight.
Tall city walls, stout gates, soldiers on patrol with stern postures, and indistinctly purposed spires that stood tall within the city were all visible.
The crowd on the road was growing denser, not only soldiers but also numerous Adventurers traveling back and forth, some with swords and spears, and others holding Magic Wands and Magic Books, and still others in simple clothes and bare-handed but no less imposing than the rest.
In terms of economy and population, this Border Fortress had its disparities compared to the peaceful cities inland.
But the city's distinct and vibrant character made a profound impression on the Hero the moment she laid eyes on it.
Soon, the Bird Carriage arrived at the station, and the coachman bid farewell to the Hero with a hint of reluctance.
"I'll be staying around here for a while. If you need any help, feel free to come and find me at this station."
Though he had seen off many passengers, this time, he felt particularly loath to part.
Ah, how wonderful it would be to have her as his charge for a year or half.
The Hero smiled and waved at him, then turned and walked towards the city gate.
[The Hero's next actions—]
2. Ask for help from the coachman
3. First go to an inn
4. Inquire with the Guard♛
9. Study the map herself
10. Critical Success/Extreme Failure
In Border City, the Guards are not only stronger than those in the inland, but the scrutiny is also a level stricter.
It seems that aside from Magic Creatures, there's much else to be wary of here.
Hence, the line to enter the city formed a long queue, with the Hero obediently heading to the back to wait her turn.
A beautiful girl with a Black Snake slung around her, this combination was quite unique even among the many oddly dressed Adventurers, drawing many gazes.
Having been away from civilization for over ten days during the monotonous journey, the Hero finally found herself amidst a crowd, looking around curiously.
After waiting for a time in the line to enter the city, she finally approached a Guard.
[The attitude of the Guard (Extraordinary Charm +68, conducting official duties -30, success over 70+)]
D70+68=d70(67)+68=135
"Hello, Miss, please present your proof of identity, and tell me the purpose of your visit to Border City."
Meeting the Hero's pure eyes, despite it being routine work, the Guard's tone became involuntarily softer.
He had been on duty here for quite some time and had seen many different people, but a lone young girl like the Hero was not common.
The Hero took out the village chief grandma's prepared identity proof for her and handed the Guard a note she had prepared in advance, which already had her origin, background, and purpose neatly filled out.
[The Hero's next actions—]
1. Inquire about the Little Girl's matter
2. Go to the Life Profession Alliance
5. Go to the Pharmacist Guild to appraise the formula and Magic Potions
6. Get the Royal Family necklace appraised♛
7. Pay a visit to the Count Mansion
8. Visit the Adventurer Guild
9. Seek out a powerful Goblin!
10. Critical Success/Extreme Failure