After recovering, I planned to leave this city and explore other places. I wanted to see how the world had truly changed.

Setting aside my childhood noble education, I’d spent the last three years immersed in ancient texts. Combined with my perspective from another world, I was certain I could gauge just how far this nation had collapsed.

Hahaha, that’s right—I’d already decided this country was beyond saving!

I also felt I should meet more people.

Sigh, at least have one friend!

Don’t think I’m some NEET who can’t make friends, okay! That kind of look is really uncomfortable.

I have my own thoughts too. In my past life, I wasn’t short of friends.

Honestly, the so-called friendships among nobles here disgust me. Everyone flatters those above them, ostracizes those below, and interactions among equals are pure collusion.

After my reincarnation, I did try befriending other kids. But the results were nauseating. Though young, noble children as young as four or five had already learned adults’ filthy socializing and decadent lifestyles. If I’d been a child too, I might have been corrupted. I died around twenty in my past life, but that maturity kept me steadfast.

Over time, I—the one who didn’t fit in—was ostracized. Eventually, the main family placed me in this corner, practically abandoning me. After all, someone like me brought no benefit to their clan.

I also tried befriending commoners. But my family fiercely opposed it, deeming peasants unworthy. In this era where commoners have no rights, children go hungry and cold, resenting nobles. Making friends is still incredibly hard.

So, these eighteen years have been a failure. I’ve accomplished nothing, have no friends. At this point, should I just shout, “Real-life winners, explode!”?

After settling everything, I prepared to mount a horse and head south to Leahdon—one of the Six Ancient Capitals. But as soon as I stepped out, the butler called me back.

“Ah! Young master, you haven’t brought enough money!”

“Right, right! You’re a huge help.”

“Also, young master, here’s a map. Please don’t get lost.”

“Ah, I forgot about that.”

“Young master, don’t rush off yet! You’ll need clothes for the south!”

“Hoho, as expected of Old Fei—so thoughtful.”

The old butler kept reminding me to bring important items. I’m sorry for forgetting so much. Without you, I’d probably end up penniless or lost on the road.

But the cane in my hand—I’d never forget that! Walking even short distances is still strenuous; I can’t do without it.

“Hoho, Old Fei, I’ll leave everything at home to you.”

“Rest assured, young master. Even if you’re gone for years, I’ll manage everything.”

“Ohoh, you’re such a reliable guy.”

“Please be extra careful, young master. I’d be even more at ease if you stayed composed.”

“Don’t worry, I’m always composed.”

The old butler smiled wryly. His young master was sometimes composed and decisive, even exuding a leader’s aura. But most of the time, like now, he was impulsive—hard to put at ease.

“Let’s go!”

Leahdon—I’m full of anticipation. What will I encounter there? Southern cities… come to think of it, I was from the south in my past life too. It feels nostalgic.

So, I set off alone for Leahdon. Thinking about it, that’s pretty brave…