Restart:Untalented Man-Chapter 444: Return to the Capital

"Did they cause you trouble?" Riz asked as soon as Samuel returned from Larkish.

"Aside from Inver having a misunderstanding about our presence there in the beginning and the reluctance of Inverloch's generals to accept the treaty, no serious problem arose," Samuel reported succinctly.

Upon his return to Baroks, Samuel sought out his king to deliver his report.

Riz nods, "That's understandable. They're at the brink of success and we blocked it. Everyone would be frustrated. It must be hard for you to convince them."

"Actually, not at all. Sir Lucas took care of that for me," Samuel replied.

"Lucas? Do you mean Alexander Lucas? He was there?"

"Yes, everything is going smoothly because of him."

"That's weird. Why is he so supportive of this treaty." Riz furrowing his brow.

The last time he talked with Alexander, that guy was enthusiastic about this war. He wondered what changed his mind.

Samuel shook his head, "I have no idea, Your Majesty. I couldn't find any clue when conversing with him."

"Anyway, let's not talk about him. Since this matter has been solved, it's time for me to depart for the capital. Go and make arrangements for me. I need to get back as earliest as possible."

He had been away from the capital for close to a week now. Normally, Riz didn't consider his absence as a big deal since it wasn't his first time being away from the capital.

However, his past excursions were only known to a few. This time, unfortunately, his departure was witnessed by many and he didn't return as scheduled.

It definitely caused a stir among the people. Many rumours about the reasons behind his extended absence probably have begun to emerge and spread.

He suspected the government building was in chaos right now.

"Leave it to me, Your Majesty. I will ensure you have a smooth and comfortable journey."

"Yeah, sure," Riz replied with a flat tone. He just wants Samuel to buy the three of them train tickets.

....

"How's your sudden vacation?" Inside the train, Riz asked Theodora and Charlotte.

Nevermind. He shouldn't asked that question.

He glanced at the numerous bags scattered in the train coach, realizing the extent of the shopping spree his wife and Charlotte had indulged in during their sudden vacation.

He couldn't help but feel a bemusement at the sight.

Theodora looked pleased with herself as she replied, "It was wonderful!"

"Just where did you get the money to buy all of this?"

"We mostly bought it using our status," Theodora replied proudly. Her words suggested that she had used her social standing as leverage.

Riz couldn't help but shake his head. He had never seen someone so proud taking an item without paying first.

Just to be safe, he reminded her, "Be sure to pay as soon as the bills arrive at the mansion. You have a reputation to maintain."

As a queen of this kingdom, maintaining her reputation was a paramount task.

Theodora nodded, "Of course, I know. I wouldn't want to tarnish my reputation over a few purchases."

"Few..." he said slowly. Apparently, their definition of "few" might differ significantly.

Shwoosh—

The steam train glided smoothly along the tracks toward the capital.

Unlike during his journey to Baroks, where the train had been empty, this time all seats except for the first class were filled with passengers.

The enthusiastic response from the citizens to the new train service didn't come as a surprise to Riz. His kingdom had always in the center of innovation. The introduction of new technologies was typically met with curiosity and excitement.

Perhaps it was the ever-evolving nature of his kingdom that made the people more open to changes.

Due to its popularity and high demand, Samuel had a hard time finding a suitable train schedule to accommodate the king and his entourage.

He was being mindful of the privacy aspect when arranging the trio's departure. As a result, none of the passengers on the couch in front of them knows a king is riding the same train as them.

Their train pulled into Bideford station around eleven o'clock in the morning.

Riz peered out of the window and observed the bustling scene on the platform.

The station was teeming with people who went about their daily activities. The initial excitement and curiosity surrounding the steam train seemed to have waned since its introduction.

It appeared that many of the passengers and onlookers milling about were accustomed to the existence of trains now.

As the train completely stopped, Riz stood up. It is not like he wants to quickly get out of the train. He was just thinking about how to deal with these bags.

Knock! Knock!

"Come in!"

The train staff poked her head inside. "Your Majesty, we have prepared the carriage to take you to the mansion."

"Good job," Riz said. Turning to Charlotte, he issued instructions, "Charlotte, please call for our guards and instruct them to transport these bags to the carriage. Also, arrange for two more carriages. One might not be enough."

While Charlotte departed to handle the transportation, Riz and Theodora prepared to step out of the train.

"Urghh..." Theodora's sudden grumble caught Riz's attention.

"What's wrong?" he asked.

"I don't know. I feel somewhat uncomfortable. Maybe I'm tired from the shopping spree in Baroks." Theodora replied.

He observed her closely, noting the slight pallor that replaced her usual rosy complexion.

"I guess so. You and Charlotte went a bit overboard with the shopping," Riz began, "but it's unusual for you to feel this tired."

Theodora nodded.

Who is she? The one who controls the financial aspect of this kingdom.

How could a mere shopping make her tired?

"Maybe you're train sick."

"Train sick?" Theodora raised her eyebrows.

"Yes, train sickness. It's not uncommon for people to experience motion sickness while travelling, especially if they're not used to it or if the journey is particularly long."

"That might explain it."

"You should get plenty of rest once we get home."