Five days have passed, and for the last three nights, a number has appeared in my dreams. It started with "20 days left," and each night, it has counted down. Last night, I saw "17 days left." I can't help but wonder if this is connected to the strange dream I had earlier.

Either way, Julian gave me the day off today. After morning practice, I plan to head out and explore more of the Luminara Kingdom up close. I want to learn more about this place—see what's outside the mansion, meet the people who live here, and feel the energy of the bustling streets.

Find the differences between the japan I'm familiar with and the nature of this new world.

I also want to venture beyond the city itself. There must be forests, lakes, or quiet hills surrounding Luminara where I can catch my breath and think. Maybe even find a hidden corner of peace away from everything. "I could use that," after all the noise and stress that's been building.

But it looks like I won't be going alone. Yumiko, who also has no lessons today, insists on coming with me. It's been obvious she's been restless, eager to escape the mansion for even just a few hours. "I can't blame her, really." If I had been cooped up inside my entire life, I'd be the same. I see it in her eyes—the way they light up at the mere mention of going outside. She tries to hide it behind her usual stubborn attitude, but I can tell she's excited.

Being a noble, Yumiko is an easy target for kidnappers seeking ransom—a member of the Valmont family would fetch a high price. Fortunately, Rina, as Yumiko's personal guard, is more than capable of protecting her.

And since Rina never really gets a day off, this is the perfect chance for her to relax a bit while still keeping an eye on Yumiko.

For me, though, it's a win-win. As much as I like Yumiko's curiosity, being alone with her feels… dangerous. Not in a physical way, but in that chaotic way where I'm always on edge, never knowing what she'll say or do next. Having Rina there as backup will keep things in check.

Even so, I'm determined to make the most of this day. I'll treat it as a chance to unwind and reset. The world beyond the mansion walls is waiting, and I intend to find something new, something that sparks my curiosity too.

Part 2

Rina, Yumiko and I had started walking down to town, I could feel the fresh air, peacefulness and the fantasy setting, a feeling that would leave any guy in a sensation of relief.

I feel alive, a feeling that I hadn't felt in a long time. Ever since I got here, I have been stressed, I mean how couldn't I be, I was sent to a new world, introduced to a mansion and been teaching Yumiko a hot headed brat.

Then before I got sent here, I couldn't feel anything but stress.

I think the last time I felt like this was when I could sit shut in my room and play games or get immersed into a fantasy light novel.

This feeling was different in a way, I think it could be the refreshing air and sounds of birds and trees, the nature itself.

At the top of the staircase, connecting the mansion property and the kingdom, a sharp sound cut the air, startling the birds.

"Finally…!!"

Yumiko shouts far over the land of the luminara kingdom, standing on the edge of the staircase.

"Aghu…"

she takes a deep breath, glancing back at us with a sharp, eager smile. The thought of getting away from the mansion clearly excites her, sparking a mix of joy and anticipation in her expression.

I have to admit, I don't mind it. Seeing Yumiko like this—so full of life—is strangely charming.

Yumiko took the lead, energetically bouncing down the stairs, Rina following behind her, and I walked down slowly, admiring the view of Luminara.

As I stood almost at the top of the stone staircase, I looked down at the narrow cobblestone streets lined with houses. Their dark wooden frames were intricately designed, each building feeling like a character in its own right.

The whitewashed walls gleamed in the sunlight, and small windows, some adorned with colorful flower boxes, offered glimpses of life within.

The atmosphere was alive with activity; merchants shouted their wares, children laughed, and the occasional argument broke through the chatter, hinting at the town's struggles beneath its lively exterior.

The steeply sloped roofs, covered in shimmering thatch, added to the charm. Wisps of smoke curled from crooked chimneys, filling the air with a mix of unfamiliar scents.

As I made my way down the steps, I caught sight of food stalls offering vibrant dishes made from strange fruits and oddly shaped vegetables, their colors almost magical. The pastries and meats looked like they belonged in a dream, each crafted with creativity and care.

Standing there, absorbing the view, I felt as if I had stepped into a living painting. The rich browns of the wooden beams and the bright colors of flowers created a stunning tapestry.

Every house and person seemed to hold a story, weaving together the fabric of this new world. I couldn't help but marvel at how different yet alive everything felt.

This is amazing! This is the world I live in now, these houses and streets, even the citizens all feel like they're alive, with their own lives and problems.

I wonder how many more places like this exist in this world, but I want to explore them all, if I could.

It is truly a dream world to live in.

A world I want to discover.

But for now, I'll just enjoy it.

"Hey! look!"

Her sharp tone cuts my ears.

"What!?"

"Look!!"

A sound of wheels running against the stone, leaving behind a dust cloud after the rolling carriage makes its way through the streets.

"Ohh, yeah, I see"

It is an usual scene for me to spot a horse on the street, it is nothing I am familiar with.

But then, most of this is new, not only the horse.

"Look, over there!" Yumiko's voice breaks through the crowd again, filled with excitement.

"What now?"

Before I get an answer she runs off to a stand, a stand containing different kinds of stones and accessories. The stones almost shine because of how bright colored they are.

"If you want, I can always buy something for you"

Rina walked up to the stand, seeing Yumiko being fascinated by all the shiny and sparkling stones.

"Really!!"

"Of course"

She is really nice towards Yumiko, even if she is all big and tough, she is kind hearted.

I have full respect for her.

"Are you looking for anything to buy?"

A kind man with a bright smile asks nicely, behind the table with goods.

"Uh… yeah!"

Yumiko is completely in her own world, lost in the beauty of the goods.

"What are you looking for, miss?"

"I-I am not sure"

"Mhh, I do have two things that might peak your interest"

"Show me"

"Okay, okay, look here"

The man puts down two necklaces on the table, one being light sky blue, the other crimson red.

Both seem to be special in their own ways with their different patterns and shapes.

"Ohh…!"

"Both have their own myths, the crimson one is told to bring you hope, it is supposed to lend the holder hope for their desires, giving you a push in the back towards your goal. Legend says, 'Whoever holds the crimson necklace will be guided toward their dreams, leaving regrets behind.' "

This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

Ohhh that sounds interesting, It sounds like it goes for a high prize though. Though if the legend is real, that is hard to believe, I mean a necklace that will free you from your regrets? If that is real, I would love to have it, but I don't have money…

But that this world has their own myths is a nice touch, it opens up more possibilities.

"Ohh…"

"Then we have the light sky blue, this necklace says to bring the holder luck, the story goes that when the holder has strong desires for something they want, it will become reality."

"But, these are just myths, but these necklaces hold some kind of special stones, no one really knows what they are but they are special, so the myth is possible."

"Oh, the blue one's gorgeous! I want it!"

Did she even hear what the two myths were? or does she not care for that?

"I want the blue one! please"

"That is 10 golden coins"

That is a lot, can Rina pay that?

"Oh, okay"

Rina reaches down her pocket and gives the seller his money for the necklace.

Wait, ten gold? That's nearly a year of my teaching salary! But then I suppose Rina is a full time guard for the nobel family, she definitely gets more then 3-4 golden coins per month.

but still, that's a lot.

"Thank you, have a good day!"

The seller waves us goodbye with a satisfied smile on his face.

"Thank you too!!"

"You too"

"Yeah, have a good day you too sir!"

We walk away, and Yumiko is pleased with her purchase. She quickly wraps it around her neck, adding a new layer to her look—a blue symbol that complements her long red hair cascading over her shoulders. The touch of blue suits her perfectly.

The shape of the symbol is unfamiliar to me, but its pattern is intriguing, and it looks fantastic.

Yumiko barely glances at the design before slipping it on and darting off, already onto the next adventure.

The town is filled with things to do so I understand why she is so excited.

But in the middle of all the stalls, I spotted a stand selling food, it smelled strange but really good.

It seems to be all kinds of different foods.

"Rina, what are these?"

"I'm not sure. Could be from the southern forests."

"Hi there! These are fruits and meat from the southern forests, they're delicious, with a bitter but sweet taste."

"Oh, interesting."

The southern forests? I wonder what's special about them.

"What are you guys doing? Ohhh, it smells so good!"

Oh there is Yumiko.

"Now that I think of it, I've eaten some southern fruits before. Most are tasty, but some are poisonous."

Ohh, Rina has been in those forests?

"You've been to the south?"

"Yeah, ages ago, back when I was still adventuring."

Ohh so she has been adventuring. That is cool.

"What? I want to go there!"

"Sorry, I can't take you."

"Why not?"

"Because I've got duties here, watching over the valmont family"

"Ahhhh!"

"Maybe one day you'll go on an adventure, though I doubt your father would allow it. Maybe once you get stronger."

The seller interrupts with a confused look. "So, are any of you buying anything?"

We exchange glances but soon walk away, leaving the sweet fruits behind.

We weave through the bustling streets, the sounds of merchants shouting, kids laughing, and parents chatting blending with the soft strum of a guitar in the distance. The melody floats through the air, adding a touch of magic to the scene, almost like it's inviting you to lose yourself in the moment.

Just as we're about to continue walking, Yumiko suddenly tugs at my sleeve.

"Look over there!" she exclaims, her eyes wide with excitement. I follow her gaze to a crowd gathered around a small open square.

Curious, we move closer, the murmurs of the crowd growing louder.

At the center of it all is a man juggling flaming torches, each flicker of fire dancing in the air. Yumiko's face lights up, and she pushes forward eagerly.

"Isn't this amazing?" she asks, not even waiting for a reply, her usual sharpness softened by genuine awe.

Rina crosses her arms, glancing around cautiously but with a rare smile tugging at her lips. "It is"

I find myself smiling too. Yumiko's excitement is contagious, and seeing her like this makes her fiery personality a little more bearable. Her energy, combined with Rina's protective but relaxed stance, balances out the moment perfectly.

As the crowd applauds the performer, the flickering flames start to dim, and the show winds down. Yumiko stretches, looking around eagerly for the next thing to explore.

"I'm starving," she suddenly declares, rubbing her stomach. "Let's find some food!"

I chuckle and nod in agreement.

"There's a tavern just up ahead. We can grab a bite there." Rina tells us both and starts walking up the streets.

The soft strumming of music grows louder as we approach, the warm glow of lanterns spilling out from the tavern's doorway. Inside, the faint hum of conversation mixes with the lively tune of a musician playing a stringed instrument. The cozy, rustic charm of the place draws us in, and without another word, we step inside.

The moment we enter, the music fills the space—a gentle, melodic tune that feels both comforting and captivating. We find a table near the hearth, settling in as the musician continues to play in the corner of the room, her fingers dancing across the strings with practiced ease.

Yumiko taps her fingers on the table, already looking for something to order, while Rina leans back, her watchful eyes scanning the room. It's a moment of peace, and for once, Yumiko seems more relaxed than usual.

Wide legged she tilts back in her chair, waiting for the food to come.

The warmth of the tavern wraps around me like a comforting blanket as I lean back in my chair, letting the gentle hum of the place settle into my bones. The fire crackles softly in the hearth nearby, casting flickering shadows across the worn wooden beams above us. The smell of roasted meat and spiced ale fills the air, mingling with the sound of quiet laughter and clinking mugs.

Rina sits across from me, her posture more relaxed than I've seen all day. She leans back in her chair, arms crossed casually, her sharp eyes surveying the room with a kind of soft attentiveness. Her usual guard-like stiffness is gone, replaced by a rare sense of ease. Yet, even now, there's an alertness to her, as if she's always prepared to jump into action if something were to happen. Still, there's a calm to her—like this place allows her to let her guard down just a little, at least for now.

Next to her, Yumiko is stuffing her face with a hearty plate of food, barely pausing between bites. She shovels another mouthful of stew and bread into her mouth, her eyes flicking over to the stage, where the musician plays with a calm grace. It's almost amusing how she can be so absorbed in her meal but still watch the musician with a mix of curiosity and awe. Her fingers tap rhythmically on the table, following the melody unconsciously.

The musician—a woman with long, flowing hair and a soft, steady voice—sits near the far corner of the room, playing a guitar-like instrument with delicate, skilled fingers. The strings hum beneath her touch, creating a melody that's soothing but carries a subtle energy. Her voice weaves in with the notes, barely above a whisper, but it fills the room with an ethereal warmth. Her words aren't clear—more like a gentle breeze carrying emotions than any story we need to understand.

The tavern patrons around us seem captivated by her performance, too. A couple of travelers at the bar lean in close, their conversation fading as they listen, while a group at a nearby table clinks their mugs quietly, their laughter muted as they, too, fall under the spell of the music. Even the tavern keeper seems to pause from wiping down mugs to watch her for a moment, his hands slowing as he listens.

Yumiko, of course, breaks the moment when she clears her throat loudly, swallowing a huge bite of food before leaning over to Rina. "She's pretty good, huh?"

Rina glances at her, the corner of her mouth lifting in a small smirk. "Better than you, I'm sure."

Yumiko rolls her eyes but doesn't argue, her gaze drifting back to the musician, who strums a series of soft, lilting notes that seem to wrap around the entire tavern, making the atmosphere even more relaxed.

I close my eyes for a moment, letting the music wash over me, the subtle conversation, the soft crackling of the fire, and the distant clinking of mugs blending into the melody. It's peaceful—an oasis from the bustling streets outside, from the chaos that usually surrounds Yumiko, from the weight of everything else.

My hands reach their way behind my neck, listening, feeling the moments ease. I glance over and spot Rina drinking, enjoying herself, I think she should and that's good. Then we have Yumiko, out of nerves she stands up, pressing her hands against the table, surveying the atmosphere out of eagerness and curiosity.

The hall begins to turn slightly darker as the sun outside dips lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the worn wooden floor. The warm orange glow of the fading light filters through the windows, softening the atmosphere. Slowly, the vibrant energy of the tavern seems to shift, as if the dimming light has calmed everything in its path.

The once-bright chatter of the crowd lowers into a gentle hum, and the candles flicker to life, casting their soft light over the tables. Yumiko, who had been sitting upright and alert, leans back, her hands now resting loosely in her lap. Her gaze drifts toward the musicians in the corner, her expression softened by the evening's calm. She watches the woman playing her guitar, her fingers moving gracefully over the strings while her soft voice weaves through the air.

Rina, more relaxed than before, leans back in her chair, her drink in hand, eyes half-closed as she listens to the melody. Her usual cautious demeanor fades in the comforting glow, replaced with an air of ease. Even the tavern patrons seem to have settled into the mood, their voices blending with the music, filling the space with warmth.

As the last traces of sunlight disappear, the hall takes on a whole new life—cozier, quieter, and intimate.

Then I hear someone raising their tone, Yumiko glances back quickly to spot what was happening. Two guys around the 20s had gotten into an argument, almost everyone had started watching the two as they knew what was going on.

"Why are you tryna fight man!"

"Come on, you were the one who started!"

"Shut up!"

Then the two started fighting, with the tavern folk crowding around them.

Yumiko quickly rushed toward the crowd, eager for something to happen. Meanwhile, Rina doesn't even glance over, content to take this free moment to simply relax and enjoy.

I, on the other hand, wouldn't mind a bit of excitement, so I walk up to Yumiko, who is already standing amongst the crowd.

"Hey, Kaito, look! A fight!"

"Yeah, I see, do you know why they're fighting?"

"Nope."

"Well, both look pretty drunk. That might be why."

"Yeah, maybe."

I suppose fights like this are common here, at least judging by all the fantasy anime I've watched.

In those shows, the main character usually gets involved somehow…

Come to think of it, I did get isekai'd. It's kinda like I'm the MC of some light novel.

For an otaku like me, this would be a dream come true—something a normal otaku could only wish for.

But then, when am I supposed to get my overpowered powers, and—a harem… Don't tell me Yumiko is going to be part of my future harem…

The tavern keeper doesn't even seem bothered, filling up glasses with beer for the folk, not even giving the fight a glance. From his demeanor, it doesn't seem to be new for people to fight here.

"Come on! hit him!" "Hit back!" "You got this!" !!!

"Kaito I also feel like fighting!"

"That is not a good idea Yumiko."

"Why—not!"

"Because you shouldn't get involved, plus Rina wouldn't want you getting hurt."

"Ahh, okej…"

Well, that was fairly easy.

Despite all the shouting from the fight, the musician remains unbothered, playing on as if the moment existed in its own world. Then, with Yumiko joining that moment, it makes it even more priceless.

As time passes, the fight comes to an end. One by one, people start leaving, the musician packs up for the night, and the once-bustling tavern is left with just a few drunk patrons, a couple of guys chatting, and us.

The tavern keeper stands behind the bar, whistling softly as he tidies up the last things for the night.

It's time for us to leave. On our way out, I notice that Yumiko seems really tired—quiet, using her last bit of energy just to make it back to the mansion. Rina's not too different; though she drank a lot, she's holding it together better than I thought, just a little worn out.

But so goes for me too, my eyes almost falling asleep while walking, it was a good but long day that's for sure.

When I make it up the last stairs and into my bedroom, I collapse onto the bed, as quickly as a romance anime would end—leaving a feeling of peace, if only for the night.

"16 days left"