CH 227

Guardian

Translated by Raizu

Novalf received the sword from one of the escorts and gripped it tightly.

There hadn’t been any new attacks in the garden since Ephial escaped. It can be said that the impending situation has calmed down now that the escort groups of each Noble family are joining up. But, the atmosphere in the garden remained tense. Because the source of the tension was no longer the assailant.

[Don’t be nervous.]

[But, Grandmother.]

[Keep your head up.]

Crowne’s short but strong tone made him feel chilled, and he hurriedly checked his surroundings.

The Nobles scattered around the gardens maintained a very high degree of vigilance, but no one was as ready for battle as Novalf. Fighting, running away, merging with other houses or keeping a distance, they are ready to move no matter which plan they choose. If you look at it from a stubborn point of view, it seemed like he was just straining himself without knowing how to actually move.

[Because we now know. We are more prepared now.]

Orshian was the cause of the tension that enveloped the Royal Palace garden.

She emitted a very strong hatred the moment she killed one of the attackers. The insane amount of magic power and murderous intent was more than enough to frighten or threaten any Nobles present.

The battle of threat that took place in the Royal Capital was still fresh in memory, but at that time they sensed it from a distance. This time they’re practically in the same garden. Even if the vector was directed toward the assailant, the pressure was immeasurable.

[…..that was thoughtless.]

Novalf realized that he was overreacting and loosened his grip on the sword.

Novalf, who had experience of clashing with a unit led by Orshian, reflexively went into combat mode after sensing the murderous intent. It could be said that the will to protect Kalmia made him even stronger. However, while the other Nobles were unable to move and in a sense maintained a neutral state, if only one person showed a blatantly aggressive posture, it would be rude, and if they were thoughtless, they could get their back finger pricked.

In the first place, there wasn’t much meaning in Novalf’s enthusiasm. Because it was none other than Kalmia who quickly found a safe place when there was a surprise attack, and led the Adellahan group to safety. Even when the dust obscured other people’s vision, she could still move.

Kalmia changed the topic to ease Novalf who was reflecting.

[Do you think Princess Orshian intends to subjugate the second demon beast?]

She thinks it’s quite possible since Orshian boasted that she would fight if a demon beast approached the Royal Capital.

[She might.]

Crowne also agreed and gave instructions to maintain vigilance. It was clear that the implication was that “If Orshian comes here, do not accept the invitation”. Of course, he had refused once already, so normally people would think that neither Kalmia nor Novalf would join.

The person in question, Orshian, was walking around the garden like a penguin. When she kicked the assailant away, the shoe she was wearing on her right foot was obliterated as well. Thus making the height of her left and right feet to not match, and causing her gaits to look unnatural.

Perhaps realizing that it would be a hindrance if only one remained, she kicked the remaining left shoe off.

With the momentum of the kick, the partially torn black dress fluttered, and Orshian simply advanced.

[It’s more refreshing this way.]

Seeing that, Crowne laughed lightly.

Taking off one’s shoes in front of the masses and leaving a torn dress as it is is the worst behavior for a Noble daughter. If someone ridicules her for walking barefoot on the ground, she can’t complain.

However, there is a sacred atmosphere that must not be violated in her imposing figure that does not waver even though she is receiving the attention of the Royal Nobles. No one could even approach her, let alone ridicule her.

As Orshian took a step forward, the Nobles who were standing in the direction of her movement retreated like a wave. Her red and blue eyes stared at Wilk Quordenze.

[She seems to be intending to ask the Quordenze family, no, Wilk-dono for help.]

The tone of her speech implied the certainties that Orshian will be turned down. Novalf nodded in response to Kalmia’s comment.

[Wilk-dono understands the duties of a Noble…]

As he spoke, he questioned his statement. He didn’t even know why I mentioned it. Considering Wilk’s fights so far, he doesn’t think he’ll agree to sortie with Orshian to subdue the demon beasts. The subjugation of monsters in the Levios territory is the responsibility of the Levios family. Perhaps what he dared to say was his desire for the person named Wilk Quordenze to match his own image of nobility, Novalf mocks himself.

Not knowing what he was expecting, he looked at Orshian. He could feel a strong will in her steady steps. No one will be able to stop her.

A maid appeared in front of Orshian just a few dozen meters before she got caught in the security net of the Quordenze-Sylopea escort.

[Please wait right there.]

[This can’t wait.]

Orshian was distracted for a moment when she tried to approach Wilk while ignoring the maid. It was Wilk’s maid who stood in her way. Even when she had a secret meeting with Wilk before the next head of the family meeting, this maid came forward and acted as an escort. That’s why she somewhat remembered this maid’s face.

The maid guessed that Orcian remembered her and threw her words before the latter could even move her legs again.

[Young Master accepted the request to intercede for Princess Orshian. He is preparing, so please wait for a while.]

[Eh, really?]

Orshian was willing to break through and talk to Wilk if he said no, but if she was told that he would come over, she wouldn’t be selfish enough to ignore it. It would be a different story if she stretched out the time too slowly, but at this moment, her intention to forcefully break through was diminished.

This was a gamble for Wilk. If he could stop her even for a moment, he could prove to his father that he could read her character to some extent. Wilk, who was watching the series of exchanges with a sidelong glance, immediately showed it to his father who was negotiating.

And, even though it was temporary, the fact that he handled Orshian’s sudden visit well was worthy of appreciation for Crowne.

[Are you going to stop that? …Kalmia.]

[What is it, Grandmother?]

[Has that girl approached the snake before?]

After the meeting with the Quordenze family, Kalmia was told by Crowne to keep an eye on anyone who comes into contact with Wilk. Kalmia and Novalf’s fiancé duo, who are basically serious in nature, observed Wilk’s movements occasionally during the evening party. Therefore, Kalmia was aware that Wilk was strolling around the garden before the next head of the family meeting was held.

She cannot see with her eyes, but she uses magic to perceive objects around her. This object recognition magic is a completely different type of magic from detection magic, so even if there are many Highlords around, it will not affect her. Of course, there is a limit to the range and amount of information that can be perceived with a single activation. The reason she was able to catch Wilk moving to a secluded place and Orshian chasing after him was because she was also wandering around the garden to attend the next generation family meeting. It happened almost by chance.

[Yes. I believe they have made contact before this.]

Since there were other families around, Kalmia only gave the bare minimum of reports. In response to Crowne’s question, she briefly explains the situation at that time.

[Did the little girl somehow fall for him?]

In diplomacy, love is an element that cannot be underestimated. If a Noble boy or girl of similar age is approaching, one can’t help but pay attention.

Of course, Kalmia understands that as well.

[There was no such atmosphere. From both sides.]

She concluded so. Because she didn’t feel the slightest bit of sweet or bitter love from Wilk and Orshian’s conversation.

[I just felt like it was friendly banter. It’s a little surprising considering the events of the other day.]

Wilk acted like he was the eldest son of a Noble family with a long history, and Orshian acted like a commoner, as if to say that it was impossible to make up for it. Kalmia thought it wouldn’t mix like water and oil, and they wouldn’t be able to understand each other.

In fact, Kalmia was talked to by Orshian several times because they’re of the same sex. The conversation didn’t go for long though. On the other hand, there was an air of nervousness when Wilk and Orshian talked, but the conversation was established without any lull or becoming harsh. At least she felt that Orshian was more in sync with Wilk much more than with Kilorde.

When Kalmia conveyed her impression, Novalf agreed.

[Hou…]

The moment Crowne was thinking, a quiet murmur resounded. One Noble, Wilk, came out of the Quordenze escort.

Wilk moved gracefully step by step so as to attract the attention of those around him. His majestic gestures that even felt gorgeous were overflowing with the dignity of a Great Noble.

[Wilk-kun!]

A bright, excited voice resounds high in the morning sky. The sound, which was filled with strong intentions, naturally attracted people’s attention.

A girl in bare feet and a boy in formal attire faced each other. It was a combination that had just happened the other day, albeit in a glaring match of murderous intent.

A sense of anticipation that something is about to begin, as well as anxiety, dominated the garden. Everyone in this place still remembers the threatening waves of that day.

Wilk took a deep breath. Feeling the cool, fresh air of the morning filling my lungs, he made a slightly exaggerated gesture. It is also a declaration that he will start speaking.

Wilk’s every move attracted attention.

[If it isn’t Orshian…]

[I’m going to defeat the monster! Wilk-kun, let’s go together!!]

However, Orshian knew nothing of such Noble customs. There are other things that matter to her.

Some people frowned at her rudeness, ignoring order and one-sidedly telling the other side what to do. However, Wilk, the person who was interrupted, didn’t try to blame her.

Is that reaction a sign of composure? The Nobles were staring intently at the exchange in order to determine the quality of the eldest son of the Great Noble Quordenze.

Wilk didn’t rush. He had long since given up on asking her for courtesy.

[Defeat the demon beast… are you referring to the second demon beast?]

[Huh? That’s it? That. Ah!]

She raised her index finger and repeatedly thrust her hand into the distance as if to violently knock on the door. Toward the huge shadow approaching the Royal Capital.

[Then, are you saying that the Archduke Milendorva will send out an army? But, the idea of defeating it together is…]

The question was not directed at Orshian.

Archduke Milendorva, who was a little further away, quietly watched the conversation. He also understood that Wilk’s gaze was directed toward him.

[Kilorde. Don’t.]

The Archduke glared at his son who was with him.

[But, Father!]

Once again, the Archduke nodded. There is a heavy pressure befitting the ruler of Great Milendorva. Fortunately or unfortunately, the boy still didn’t have the guts to shake off the stillness of his father who had become serious.

If it’s only Orshian who run amok, then the cleanups will be easier. Actually, it would be more convenient for her to rampage now. The Archduke must’ve simulated the situation already in his head.

However, the participation of the Quordenze family was not included in that calculation. Because the Archduke perceives the relationship between Wilk and Orshian as bad. At the very least, he thought Wilk had a bad impression.

Orshian, who had no way of knowing the circumstances behind the scenes, replied honestly.

[No, I’m the only one going.]

At that moment, Wilk laughed quietly.

[Hmm, that means the only representative from Archduke Milendorva will be Princess Orshian?]

There’s no color of ridicule in his voice. But, Wilk made the statement clear to hear. And words piled up faster than Orshian can react.

[Now that I think about it, if you invited me, haven’t you asked anyone else?]

Orshian briefly explained that she had called out to the people she had met at the next head of the family meeting, and that she had been turned down.

[I see, neither Marquis Zeldomitra nor Marquis Adellahan will send reinforcements.]

Then, Wilk slowly moved his head left and right to check the reactions of those around him. As if asking to be corrected.

Wilk waited for a while while soothing Orshian. In the end, no one showed any movement.

[Snake, what are you thinking…?]

Due to Wilk’s remarks, the Zeldomitra and Adellahan had withdrawn their previous statements and are now in a situation where it is difficult to say that they will send out reinforcements. Similarly, it would be difficult to bring anything other than Orshian out of the Milendorva family. But, that’s it.

If the Quordenze family wants to say “because everyone won’t go” as the reason for refusing Orshian’s request to join the subjugation, it would be too pointless an exchange. In the first place, it is a story that ends with one word, “Levios should fulfill Levios’ responsibility”.

Are you emphasizing excuses so as not to offend Orshian, or is there another reason? Crowne, who could not figure out Wilk Quordenze’s intention, pondered the true meaning of this exchange.

[Let me ask you one thing. There may be an opinion that Levios’ responsibility should be handled by themselves. Milendorva should be well aware of that…]

He carefully explained so that the girl in front of her doesn’t get impatient. Wilk cut off his words when her expression became clouded by the confusing story full of chaotic pretenses. And ask simple and clear questions.

[… That’s why I want you to answer honestly now. Princess Orshian, why are you trying to fight?]

Then Orshian raised her voice, as if she was waiting for this easy-to-understand question.

[My brother said that I have the power to protect everyone. That’s why I do what I can. I have the power to defeat the demon beasts, so that everyone can stay protected. After all, that’s my role.]

There was no secret nor trickery that is typical of Nobles. The intention behind those words, which was too honest, would make anyone think that it’s coming from the heart.

[Isn’t it the same for Wilk-kun?]

At that moment, Wilk let out a faint burst of joy.

Only one person noticed it. Only Crowne had the impression that things had gone according to Wilk’s plan. All the preparations had been met, and the serpent had wrapped around its prey. This is the moment when it raised its head to devour. The name Cassia Quordenze, the Princess of conspiracies, who had once plunged the Arpeo region into a vortex of chaos, suddenly came to Crowne’s mind.

From here on, Wilk will start moving to achieve his actual goal. Crowne sensed it.

As expected, Wilk gave a big nod.

[These words make us think again about what powerful people should do.]

He hadn’t denied it. However, it is a remark that cannot be taken as a complete affirmation either. Crowne couldn’t help but feel the caution of a Noble there.

[Princess Orshian, I take seriously the fact that you relied on Quordenze.]

The person Orshian spoke to was an individual named Wilk. There was no one here who did not notice the intention of twisting it into a unit called a house. Except for Orshian herself.

No one could have imagined how the story would go. That is why the words that follow come as a surprise to many.

[I, Wilk Quordenze, hereby declare my cooperation in response to Orshian Milendorva’s request.]

A loud noise spread throughout the garden.

There are whispers here and there that the Quordenze family and the Milendorva family will jointly exterminate the demon beasts, or that the Archduke Milendorva will move in to deny this.

In order to take the initiative and block the movement, Wilk stretched out his arm wide and urged the silence of the place.

[The series of commotions that have continued since last night, are these really just a coincidence!?]

The intense tone that changed from a calm voice had the effect of switching people’s consciousness. It is a strong appeal that the previous story is completed and we will move on to the next story. Wilk will not let go while holding the initiative of the story.

[By chance, two mature demon beasts attacked, and by chance, the priest’s forces took over and launched an attack? Huh!? Who would believe that!]

That was more or less what everyone thought.

It might be possible if a demon beast was born and one or two attackers took advantage of it. However, the two mature demon beasts born at the same time and the attackers who appeared to slip through the Levios army, which had strengthened their vigilance for socializing in the Royal Capital, were clearly unnatural.

Although there is no confirmation, the circumstances indicate that it was not a coincidence. That’s why the Nobles listen to Wilk’s story.

[Shouldn’t we consider that all of this was caused artificially? We are under attack!]

But, what about it? Wilk raised his voice the loudest to answer such a silent question.

[There are grounds for suspicion of involvement! Quordenze knows about it!!]

At that point, Wilk slowly removed his ornaments, picked them up, and held them high in the sky. It’s a decoration that uses the orb of the demon beast Sibel Kroga.

In the society of the Royal Capital, there was no one who didn’t care about the orb with its dark color. It’s small and hard to see, but most of the people guessed what the ornament was in Wilk’s hand.

[I think I got it.]

And at this time, Crowne seemingly figured out Wilk’s and the Quordenze family’s goals.

[Grandmother did?]

[The snake and the little girl, they may be unexpectedly close.]

Wilk handed over the decorations to the maid who approached him without explaining the details of his reasoning. The maid goes straight into the Quordenze escort group and delivers it to Luxus Quordenze.

With his actions, he implied that everyone can ask his father for details.

Wilk opened his mouth again when the eyes of the crowd returned to him.

[I passed through many territories before arriving at the Royal Capital Levios…]

It was a calm voice, unlike the tone that fueled hostility and even anger.

[I’ve seen with my own eyes the land that I’ve only seen on maps before…]

While Wilk was talking, the Quordenze faction Nobles had already begun to act. Not many people were aware of it.

[There were checkpoints, forts, and ramparts. It’s just as you saw it on the map.]

Wilk continued talking, to buy time for his next move.

[However, no borders of the territory were drawn anywhere on this land.]

He continued to speak.

[It was always the same, the land of Eruo, under our feet.]

Then, Wilk looked at Orshian.

[…If I may speak honestly, I have been feeling irritated since last night. Even though the demon beasts are trampling the land, I couldn’t make any move.]

Hearing those words, Novalf gently averted his gaze.

[I kept asking myself who I was.]

Crowne remembered what happened that night. Novalf was also invited by Orshian to subjugate the demon beasts, but he declined because of his duties as a Noble. However, Crowne also sensed his unwillingness. It was for the same reason that he turned his eyes away again.

And Crowne had one concern. She wondered if it was possible, and when she observed the young Nobles of the Kingdom, there were some who more or less sympathized with Wilk.

Nobles are supposed to protect the land, and just because they belong to other territories, is it really okay to leave the monsters be when they’re there at present? Wilk’s words, trying to confront the contradiction that arose in his mind, captured the hearts of the young Nobles.

[Here he come.]

For Crowne, the word “Guardian of the Land” is just a decoration. It’s just a justification for intimidating other families into going to war. This is because in the era in which she lived, it was more important to protect the land from invasion by other Nobles than from beasts.

However, the long peace created by the alliance of Levios Kingdom gradually made the values ​​of the era of turmoil outdated. The element of protecting the territory due to the prohibition of war between the Kingdom’s Nobles became more and more of an anti-demon beast. For the young Nobles of the Kingdom living in the current era, the cause of being the guardian of the land was more important than Crowne had imagined, and it was becoming something deeply rooted in their hearts.

Crowne was half convinced that the root of Wilk’s actions was the Noble’s trickery. However, if it was said that it was an action driven by righteous indignation as a guardian of the land, it could not be completely denied.

Wilk continued while checking the surroundings.

[It must be someone’s plot… Even though I thought so, I couldn’t move. It was you, Princess Orshian, who gave me the courage to take the last step.]

The preparation has been completed. After confirming that signal, Wilk took a big step forward.

[Who am I? I am a Noble, and I have power! Then, I must stand up! I must retaliate against evil attacks!]

A certain Noble boy was irritated by the attitude of adults trying to avoid battle against the beast. Another Noble girl found the adults’ passive attitude pathetic. Inspired by Wilk’s words, they danced, envied, and yearned for him.

Plume quietly placed her hand on her chest. There was an unprecedented high-pitched roar.

Wilk takes a deep breath and stretches out his right arm.

[I will fulfill our duty here and now!!!]

His fingertips were pointing at the second demon beast.

[Let’s go!! Those who are willing to follow me!]

When he moved his other arm, the 100 or so military officers who had secretly gathered in line stepped forward and straightened their posture. Then, Wilk jumped up and rode on one of the prepared horses.

[Wilk-kun, are you going by horse?]

[Yeah.]

[Can I ride on the back? It’s hard to run in these clothes.]

While saying that, Orshian spread the skirt of her black dress and swayed it. It’s a dress that looks like it’s going to be difficult to run in. Wilk hesitated a little, but quickly came to a conclusion.

[If you will listen to one request of mine.]

[Tell me.]

Before replying, Wilk held out his hand.

[From now on, don’t say anything about us holding hands. If you promise not to say it again, I’ll give you a ride.]

For a moment, Orshian showed a dumbfounded expression, but he immediately took her hand with a bright smile.

[Well, it can’t be helped.]

[It can’t be helped, it’s only natural to ask. If I don’t, you’ll probably treat me like a pervert just because we’re riding on the same horse. …come, I’ll help you up.]

With the help of Wilk’s outstretched hand, Orshian climbed onto the horse quite easily. The black dress that fluttered and swayed was eye-catching.

People looked at Wilk and Orshian riding on a single horse with various thoughts. Archduke Milendorva felt bitter, and Crowne became more vigilant. The Levios family suffered, while Sadin Zeldomitra smiled fearlessly.

But, there was also a common feeling. It is a vague sense of anticipation. The two, who are considered to be the strongest in this place, joined hands. In this world where being strong is respected, if someone shows something like that, no matter what happens, the feelings of excitement will sprout up. There was no way anyone could have stopped them.

[Don’t be shaken off!]

[Un!]

Wilk, Orshian, and the hastily constructed unit rushed through the garden like the wind.

[…Father. What is the duty of a Noble?]

Kilorde said without looking at the face of Archduke Milendorva standing next to him.

[We are powerful, lords among men… Aren’t we guardians of the land?]

The Archduke was at a loss for words as to how to respond. What Wilk said was not just a child’s idealism, but something that should be called a “Noble Diplomacy” that is full of clear calculations. The Archduke already understood its purpose.

However, his words that stimulated the pride as a guardian seemed too dazzling to a young Noble boy.

[I feel like a feeble existence that only eats life in the land where it was protected…]

The voice was filled with resentment.

[How is that any different from the slaves?]

Kilorde just stared at the backs of Wilk and Orshian as they were leaving.