"I am Fisher Benavides, a scholar. I'm heading to Krit Port in the north. I heard that the City Lord is restricting leaving the city, so..."
"Ah, Mr. Fisher, I've long admired your great reputation. I saw your research at the Nali Academic Salon, and your contributions to steam ethics have benefited me a lot..."
A bit of steam escaped from under Philone's mask, and even though only his eyes were visible, Fisher could still hear some joy in his voice.
"Oh? You know me?"
"After all, not everyone has the opportunity to study at the highest academic institutions, but I still admire the academic atmosphere there, so I pay special attention to the academic news from there... like, 'The Rebellious of the Royal College,' Mr. Fisher."
This was indeed the kind of evaluation Fisher Benavides should have received in Saint Nali—Keken's respectful attitude was actually quite surprising to Fisher.
