My respect toward NPCs was selective. The old king was a man of glory status and was dressed as such, but for some reason his eyes looked dim and almost evil to me. They stood out like a citrus fruit in a meat stall and reminded me of horrible monarchs who ruled with their lower head instead of their brain. He had most likely inherited his throne by right of succession, because he didn’t look fit to be the ruler of an empire at all.

I far preferred monarchs who were smart and strong like Princess Karinshan. Only they could actually protect their people in an era of war and strife.

……

I walked up to him and said softly, "Your Majesty, I’m an adventurer from Floating Ice City. I would like to apply for a piece of land and open a shop on it."

"Oh?"

The old king opened his sleepy eyes and said, "Did the brave of little Karinshan finally make it to Sky City? Unfortunately, you aren’t strong enough to qualify for a piece of land yet, young warrior. Keep training until you’re Level 100!"

"Is that so?" I replied thoughtfully. That was a hint from the game itself. Besides having to spend a huge...