The kingdom's eastern gate was bustling with travelers heading toward the capital.

With its towering walls, elaborately crafted iron gates, and rows of royal guards on either side, it was one of the most strictly monitored checkpoints in the kingdom. However, an adventurer standing before it seemed completely oblivious to this fact, glancing around curiously.

His neat orange hair shone brightly under the sunlight, and his well-maintained leather armor and the longsword at his hip suggested he was a fairly experienced adventurer. His attire was clean, and his posture was relaxed. However, the map in his hand showed clear signs of having been flipped over and examined many times.

Eventually, the soldier in charge of the gate grew suspicious and contacted the Royal Knights.

A moment later, a knight appeared. Neat orange hair, impeccable attire, and a sword at his waist. The knight, whose very stride was disciplined, turned his gaze toward the adventurer while listening to the soldier's report.

And then, he froze.

...They were identical.

The adventurer before him had the exact same face. From the shape of the eyes to the tip of the nose and the curve of the lips. Even the way the stranger habitually tilted his head while folding the map felt hauntingly familiar.

The knight fell silent for a moment. He had heard reports of royal imposters or monsters using transformation magic, but he had never imagined a situation where a human with his own face would be standing right in front of him.

He soon hardened his expression and approached the adventurer.

"Excuse me. Armed outsiders are not permitted to pass through this gate without royal authorization."