How to ruin the original

Episode 7

In the face of mounting irritation, Nigel clenched his lips and read the next line.

“[Of course, I understand your frustration with me only coming around when you need me and disliking spending money on superficial appearances. However, I have no complaints about that. But if it were Sienia, it would be a different story.]”

Over the next two pages, Nigel listed reasons why he had to spend money on appearances.

Firstly, in Sienia, most people are distinguished individuals with honor or wealth, so they would judge Nigel’s worth by his appearance. Secondly, shabby attire would actually draw attention in Sienia. Thirdly…

Nigel couldn’t hold back when the third reason came up and turned the letter to the next page.

“Even if I say this, I know you won’t listen to me.”

“…That’s why I don’t like you.”

Nigel bit his lip and continued reading.

“So, I rented a dressing room. The name of the dressing room is Ludin. I’ve already paid for it, so just bring yourself.
-Zeronin.”

“How have you always seen me?”

How much have I spent?

Of course, I managed with just a couple of dresses per season, but I always kept them clean, washed and ironed, so there was nothing to criticize.

Fashion is just something that people with money are told to spend more on.

[P.S. Instead of writing back, go straight to the dressing room.]

Below that, there was a simple map that looked like it was drawn for a child.

One thing was for sure.

Zeronin still sees himself as a 10-year-old kid.

Nigel wrote the letterhead to reply but crumpled the paper and threw it into the fireplace instead.

The paper quickly caught fire and turned to ashes.

“Thanks, Jeron. The room feels warmer now.”

Nigel glanced at the fireplace and went into the bathroom.

—

After washing with cold water, Nigel felt refreshed both physically and mentally.

Sitting near the fireplace, Nigel dried his long, black hair with a towel and planned out his schedule for the day.

“Go to the post office to send the letter to the orphanage, then visit Ludin or Rodin, have lunch, and go to Evans Upper Bank.”

The capital city of Solf, located in the center of the empire, dawned quickly compared to Tylan.

The sunlight streaming through the window pierced Nigel’s eyes, making them squint involuntarily.

“I guess I won’t need a scarf here anytime soon.”

Nigel tied his scarf tightly to prevent it from coming loose and went downstairs.

“Oh, did you sleep well? You were about to die yesterday, but you woke up as the top student.”

A cheerful young woman of Nigel’s age welcomed him.

“Are you having breakfast, or are you heading out right away?”

As the fragrant scent of soup wafted in from afar, Nigel hesitated to leave and quietly took a seat.

“Ah, haha! If you smell the soup my mother just made, you can’t resist eating it. Wait, I’ll bring it right away!”

Soon, a steaming bowl of soup, a piece of warm bread, and a glass of colorful fruit juice were brought out.

“The juice is complimentary. My mom insisted. She feels sorry for you since you seem to be struggling even though you’re young.”

A warm-looking lady from the kitchen winked at Nigel.

“…Please thank her for me.”

Nigel said, slightly bowing his head.

“Oh, it’s nothing much. If you want to express your gratitude, just clean your plate. Of course, my mom’s cooking doesn’t need that kind of reassurance!”

“Yes.”

Nigel picked up his spoon and tasted the warm soup.

“…!”

The hearty soup with a subtle yet deep flavor, the moist and savory bread, and the refreshing juice that cleansed his palate made for a perfect breakfast.

“Hahaha! You eat so well, as if you’ve done a great job making it yourself. It seems like you’re not from the capital…!”

“If it’s Tylan, isn’t it extremely cold? It snows half the year…! I thought there must be a tough person who bathes in cold water in this weather, and it was you!”

“…But it’s refreshing in the summer.”

Nigel pushed back his slightly damp hair.

“Yeah, there’s always a downside to things, but there’s usually an upside too. Just like our food is amazing but our rooms are a bit lacking at our inn!”

“…Ah.”

Nigel rolled his eyes without finding a response.

“It’s just a joke, so you don’t have to answer. Haha. But next time you take a bath, ask for hot water. You’ll catch a cold.”

“Yes, please tell her the food was delicious.”

“Got it. Take care. Oh, what’s your name?”

“Nigel.”

“I’m Andy! By the way, here dinner is even better.”

It was a call for early retirement.

“See you later, Nigel!”

Nigel received Andy’s warm farewell and left the inn.

The inn sign read “Andy’s Inn” in big letters.

“A good start.”

Nigel smiled lightly and walked away.

—

After sending the letter to the orphanage at the post office and sending it via express mail, Nigel took out Zeronin’s letter, or more precisely, the last page, and unfolded it.

Relying on this simple map was clearly an act that his pride did not tolerate.

However, humans could only grow when they acknowledged their shortcomings. Therefore, Nigel firmly grasped the map.

“…I guess it’s well made.”

Unlike when he went to the post office, this time he only got lost twice and arrived at his destination.

Indeed, it was true that growth began when one acknowledged their shortcomings.

Nigel tucked Zeronin’s letter into his bag, making a faint sound.

Ding.

The clear sound of a bell greeted Nigel first.

The interior of the dressing room was so flashy that it seemed like something Alan would like.

Shortly after, a glamorous woman dressed in flashy attire emerged from inside the store.

Her clothes even suited Nigel, who had no eye for fashion.

“Welcome, Lady Nigel. Madame Ludin has been eagerly awaiting your visit.”

“…Ah.”

“Oh, excuse me. Sir Olivier has reserved the entire week. Didn’t he tell you?”

Whether Zeronin poured money into the river or buried it in the ground, Nigel didn’t know.

But more importantly…

“…Sir Olivier?”

Nigel’s mouth opened in disbelief at the words he couldn’t endure.

“Ohoho! This, this seems like a surprise gift, but don’t be too embarrassed, Lady. Sir Olivier’s vision is remarkable to the point where Madame Ludin wants to scout him, huh?”

…It wasn’t at all because Zeronin’s choice pleased him.

It was just because he didn’t want to get sick before even entering school by wearing clothes that didn’t fit.