Episode 14

The capital of the kingdom, a bustling city it remains. A hub of governance and trade, though not as busy as the Marquiss Bozes region. Awaiting the evening's announcement of exam results, I suggest my family explores the condition of the capital city.

"Everyone, as we await the examination outcomes today, how about we take a tour around the city?"

"Ooohhh"

Their spirited replies indicate a fondness for city walks, particularly amongst the children.

"Uncle, will we be visiting the food stands?"

"Of course, Alice."

Predictably, our food enthusiast inquires. Yet Alice will inevitably ask me for extra spices, accustomed as she is to generously seasoned cuisine.

"Hey, Riese, did your family used to enjoy outings like this?"

"Certainly, Anna... It'll be fun, just follow our lead."

"Hey... You're not taking the exam seriously."

"Worry not, Uncle says conviction is key. He's certain we'll pass."

"Well, you do have a point. The written exam seemed easy enough, thanks to studying with Uncle."

"Right? Let's relish today."

I note Anna's anxiety. Of course, such concern is normal; not every commoner receives early education.

From what I've heard, the 9-13 age category exam poses basic math and reading questions, while the 14-19 category's a bit tougher for commoners but within Riese's and Anna's grasp. An example Riese shared was about drafting a national budget report. Though lacking a standard format, I'm confident that mine, adapted from the modern world, is superior.

There are also strategic questions on multiplication and division, taught exclusively to nobles, as told by Riese. Moreover, the exam includes art questions, with poetry creation being notably challenging. Nevertheless, I am optimistic of their success.

After about 20 minutes, we reach the market and sample the local treats.

"Hmm, airel has a preference for your food, Uncle."

"Me too."

That's Airel and Aira.

"Alice also savors only Uncle's food."

Hey hey hey, those naughty children, observe how you've dismayed the vendor.

"a-ahahaha let's continue our rounds."

With that, I advocate for moving on.

Sampling snacks, Anna suddenly admits,

"I must concede, Uncle's cooking is unrivaled. I'd swear to it."

"Hahha, you sound just like a child, Anna."

"I am stating merely the truth, Riese."

"Don't you agree?"

"Yeah, you're right too."

After our exploration, here's what I've deduced:

1. Capital city prices are steeper but the quality is superior\, rivaling even my own in terms of raw spices.

2. Food quality matches that of the Marquiss region\, suggesting a maximum standard here.

3. Most importantly\, their standard of living appears comfortable\, judging by their attire. Poverty seems limited\, even slaves are decently dressed.

Hmm? Clothes? Fashion? Ah, a brilliant idea strikes me. I can market cosmetics, a field where I excelled in my previous world. It's decided; I'll open a fashion-related store.

Pondering this, we arrive at the Academy. I let the others enter to hear their results while I slip through an alternative door designated for teachers. Today, teacher selection results are also announced.

"Good afternoon, everyone! Today's announcements will reveal the teachers who made the cut. Those who haven't, deemed worthy, might be redeployed to the new Marquiss Academies."

"Let's get straight to the results."

"First, Eleanor William, Passed."

A whisper goes around; turns out she's a duke's daughter. Why would she apply to teach?

"Alicia Aegnor, Passed."

"Hendrick Bozes, Passed."

Wow, he made it too.

"Noah Torstein, Passed."

"Zalack Warhammer, Passed."

"Nicolle Wales, Passed."

"Barton Moses, Passed."

"Helen Norden, Passed."

"And finally, Martin, Passed."

Some names are pegged for dispatch to various new Academies; these will be posted on the notice board, and you should report to the adjacent right room. Successful candidates please gather in the left room."

"Hey, Martin, we did it!"

"Ahaha, I'm surprised I got through."

"What are you thinking? Confidence is key!"

"Y-yes."

With that, we convene in the left room, where an elder gentleman awaits us.

"Greetings, His Grace, Duke Wellington."

All teachers kneel. Hmm, is he also a duke? Seems I'm the last to know. Reluctantly, I too kneel.

"Ohohoho... Rise, I'm no longer the duke."

"No, your Grace remains."

"Ease up, Eleanor. Just 'headmaster' will do."

"Now that you're here, I'll outline your assignments. Eleanor, you and Martin will teach the 5-8-year-olds."

"Eehhh? Not the advanced class?"

Eleanor is taken aback, hoping for a higher level.

"It's precisely because I trust you both that I put you with the basics. As top scorers, your strong foundations are vital for the students."

As for Alicia, Hendrick, Noah, and Zalack, middle school is your charge, and Nicolle, Barton, and Helen will handle the advanced classes.

"Classes start the day after tomorrow, get ready. That's all for now."

Post-announcement, a robust discussion ensues.

"Master Martin, let's cooperate well. Don't disappoint me... Hmmph."

H-have I erred?

"Ve-Very well, your guidance is appreciated, Lady Eleanor."

"Just 'Ela' will do; we're both teachers now."

"Sure, Miss Ela."

Eleanor turns away and departs.

"Hey, Martin, what luck working with Lady Eleanor! I'm envious."

"Really? It feels like nothing good will come of it."

"What do you mean? Lady Eleanor is the nation's heartthrob, on par with the current Princess Elsa."

Isn't that worse? Attention will fixate on me. I mingle with the rest; thankfully, they regard me as an equal, having passed the teacher's test.

Finally, I exit, waiting for my family's results.

"Uncle!!!"

There's Rain.

"How did it go, Rain?"

"I passed, Uncle, I passed!!!"

"Well done."

Next up, my sweet trio.

"Uncle"

"Did you all pass?"

"un"

They respond in unison.

"Uncle, don't forget our prize."

"Don't worry, Alice."

"Yeeeyy"

"Thank you, Uncle."

Alice and Airel are ecstatic, raising their hands in joy, while Aira bows in thanks, much like a princess, so mature.

Lastly, Riese and Anna.

"You both passed, right?"

"Of course, Uncle."

"Yeah, all thanks to Uncle's help. I almost lost faith in passing."

It seems Anna was truly worried.

"Anna, remember to write to your parents, share that you've been accepted at the Royal Academy."

"Yes, Uncle."

"Alright, to celebrate, I'll treat you to a grand meal. This is my country's most anticipated dish."

"ooooohhh"

We return home with spirits high, ready to celebrate.

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