The Kingdom of Arvelia, the capital Belkar.

2:35 PM. On the street leading from the Western Barracks District to the Central Market, the midday sunlight slanted down. Carriages passed between stone buildings, and the smell of freshly baked pies wafted from a bakery on the corner.

Today was the day off for the Captain of the 3rd Squad of the Royal Knights.

Tancredi Rangoni was wearing a shirt with rolled-up sleeves and dark trousers instead of a uniform. He didn't even have a sword at his waist. After sleeping in at home all morning, he had finally come out to the street late after lunchtime.

The paper bag he was holding contained two apples and a bunch of carrots. It was a selection a horse would appreciate more than a person.

However, his steps toward the stable changed direction when he spotted a familiar face.