Chapter 44 “Ordinary People’s Breakfast”
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In the bustling city, a mere twelve pesos could buy a newspaper, an item as affordable as a simple breakfast or the cheapest dessert at a lively city square.
Armed with this knowledge, Duncan scraped together enough coins to buy a newspaper from a nearby kiosk. The vendor, a middle-aged man engrossed in his own reading, gave Duncan only a cursory nod as he pointed to the pile of newspapers.
Duncan’s interest was piqued when he saw the vendor’s newspaper headline about the latest lottery draw, a sign of another person hopeful for a life-changing windfall.
Turning to his own newly acquired newspaper, Duncan was immediately drawn to the front-page headline: “Massive Cultist Arrest and Citizen Rescue Underway…” The accompanying photograph showed a relatively young woman, notable for a prominent scar over her left eye, which did nothing to diminish her striking beauty. She stood taller than her male subordinates, commanding attention.
The article identified her as an inquisitor dressed in a form-fitting, lightweight armored suit, wielding a large two-handed sword, evoking images of medieval warriors. The scene was set against a backdrop of colossal, steam-powered machines armed with cannons, merging ancient warrior aesthetics with modern technological warfare.
This captivating image, along with the report of the cult’s base destruction and the capture of its members, brought Duncan a sense of relief, knowing that justice was being served without his direct involvement or emotional distress. The newspaper provided insights into the secretive world of female inquisitors who battle cults, the deployment of heavily armed steam-powered robots, and church military forces equipped with both traditional and modern weapons.
The once-hidden details about the mysterious Vanished were now available for just twelve pesos, highlighting the dramatic changes since the vessel’s century-long disappearance.
The city-state of Pland had prospered during this time, entering a golden age of prosperity. Yet, Duncan found the busy street corner unsuitable for reading. Folding the newspaper carefully, he remembered Nina, his “niece,” who awaited him at the antique store.
Having a local like Nina was invaluable for gaining precise and comprehensive information, much more effective than wandering alone. Duncan was currently in no hurry regarding the Vanished. Even while engaged in his spirit walk, he remained fully aware of his ship’s status, his alternate body’s condition, Goathead’s navigation, and Alice’s activities in her quarters.
Aboard the ship, it was well known not to disturb the captain in his quarters. Duncan reasoned that his occasional disappearances due to his spirit walking should cause no confusion or concern, given the strict adherence to this rule.
As he became more adept at this unique skill of “mental projection,” Duncan began to contemplate the possibility of simultaneously controlling both his physical and projected forms without negative repercussions.
Suddenly, a delightful aroma from a newly opened pastry shop across the street caught his attention. Despite the area not being famous for high-end dessert shops, affordable treats were still available. With twenty pesos in his pocket, Duncan had more than enough for a treat and decided to buy a bee honey cake wrapped in thick, rustic paper, enhancing its authentic appeal.
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Walking back to the antique shop where he stayed, Duncan felt a wave of joy from the simple pleasures of interacting with locals and making small purchases, a refreshing change from life aboard the ship.
Upon arriving, he saw the shop sign, “Duncan’s Antique Shop,” confirmed its correctness, and entered. The familiar chime signaled his return, and he heard Nina’s hurried footsteps from upstairs.
“Uncle Duncan, where have you been?” Nina asked with evident concern. “You said you were just checking the front door, but then you disappeared… I worried you might have gone off to the tavern or the gambling den again…”
Duncan was touched by her genuine concern, indicative of deep familial care, despite his frequent tavern visits and a past darkened by affiliations with the Sun Cult. At that moment, her worry overshadowed his flawed history.
“I just took a short walk and picked up a few things,” he said, showing her the cake and newspaper as proof of his simple outing. This seemed to relieve Nina’s worries.
“Uncle, wait a moment; I’ll get our breakfast. You haven’t eaten yet, right? I made corn beet soup…” Before Duncan could respond, Nina quickly went upstairs and returned with a tray laden with a modest breakfast for both of them.
As Nina set the table with efficiency, Duncan realized that her rapid, purposeful actions left no room for him to assist, a poignant reminder of her premature responsibilities due to his occasional neglect.
“Let’s eat,” Nina said, looking at Duncan with a familiarity born of many such mornings. “Dr. Albert always says a regular breakfast and a positive outlook are better than alcohol or pain meds.”
Duncan remained silent, observing Nina’s efforts to keep the morning routine smooth, and he slid the cake box towards her.
“What’s this…?” Nina asked, her surprise mingling with curiosity.
“It’s a cake from the new bakery around the corner,” Duncan replied nonchalantly. “You’re still growing, and I thought a nutritious breakfast would be good for you.”
Nina stared at the cake box, then softly added, “Uncle, are you sure you’re okay?”
“Absolutely, I’m fine,” Duncan reassured her earnestly. “I realized it’s been too long since I last bought you a cake.”
“It’s been over a year,” Nina murmured, but then her face brightened with a smile. She picked up a knife and suggested, “Then we should share it. Dr. Albert did say you need nutritious food too.”
Duncan found the suggestion slightly unusual but agreed after a moment, “Alright…”
Is our mc not even slightly cautious about the fact the reality literally changed????
At least this time he’s aware of it, rather than the “Fish” incident.
I’d rather that than another Demon lackey. Not that I disliked that story but we need variety xP.
cake is nutritious ?
It has eggs ¯\_(?)_/¯
Higher calories
Okay, I’m sorry but Duncan is a literal Skinwalker