Chapter 36: Preparing To Leave
The routine after the succession ceremony was predictably monotonous.
The countryside, blanketed in snow from all directions, offered little to do. There were no neighboring villages, and merchants did not pass by. Shiron continued his research for training and combat magic except for his sleeping hours.
However, there were a few changes amidst all this. The most noticeable change was that he no longer ate alone.
After taking a shower, Shiron went to the designated place for lunch. Unlike the lavish banquet hall, there was a simple table and chairs. His siblings, who had quickly washed up, and Hugo were there.
You started eating without me.
If I waited, Id be pushing you aside.
Hugo responded calmly while Shiron chuckled and took his seat.
The seat he chose was opposite Hugo. A position where he could make eye contact and converse with Hugo. While others might find it awkward, Shiron felt the need for it.
Distancing himself from Hugo would be odd since hes declared to have obtained the power of prophecy. Unnecessary suspicions were not beneficial.
Hugo needs to be my strong support.
Building favor started with small gestures. Not hurrying the meal out of hunger was a given. As Shiron cut his meat into bite-sized pieces, he looked at Hugo.
When do we depart?
Speaking before an elder was considered rude, but it was acceptable for children. Asking questions was the easiest way to express interest in someone.
Shiron voiced a question he had forgotten to ask during his previous meeting with Hugo.
While cutting meat, Hugo looked at Shiron.
Do you have any pending tasks? If theres something to prepare, we can delay.
I like to plan ahead.
Its a good habit. Being prepared can sometimes yield better results than abilities.
Finishing his response, Hugo put a piece of the cut meat in his mouth. His movements were delicate and graceful, quite at odds with his stature. It was as if he was demonstrating the proper etiquette of a noble.
Beside Hugo, Siriel and Lucia, who were quietly eating, also listened to their conversation.
Initially, we planned to depart right after clearing the magical beasts around. According to Johan, itll take about three more days.
I see.
Three days is a short time.
It was a short yet long duration, but Shiron wasnt in a rush. What more could he do here other than swing a sword?
Dipping bread into the thick soup, Shiron felt the quality of meals had improved lately.
Spices and other items couldnt be procured on-site, so they were replenished once a year when denizens of the castle went on an outing. Knowing that the children would soon leave Dawn Castle, Yuma didnt skimp on the food supplies.
Then
Having finished his meal, Hugo wiped his mouth with a napkin and looked at Shiron and Lucia.
Have you two ever faced magical beasts?
He had many questions for the two children, and he hoped they werent intimidated by him.
The fastest way to get close was through conversation. After finishing his meal, he once again asked his nephew and niece.
Ive faced a few Frost Wolves.
Me too.
Shiron answered, and Lucia followed suit. Their expressions showed calmness, indicating that facing Frost Wolves was not them simply bragging.
Well done.
Hugo nodded slowly.
There are places near Dawn Castle where Frost Wolves frequently appear.
Sipping coffee, Hugo continued,
However, if you go further, like the lake where the succession ceremony was held, the danger from the magical beasts increases. Near the mountains, dangerous magical beasts often appear. Some even come from across the mountains.
How strong are those creatures?
Too strong for you to handle.
Hugo stared at Lucia. Hed seen the children training in the armory a few times, and Lucia stood out. But she was still a child. He thought no matter how talented she was, she wouldnt stand a chance against the beasts of the mountains.
Thats one of the reasons I brought the knight order here. This place is perfect for those whove never stepped into the demon realm to practice.
At the mention of the demon realm, Siriel leaned forward.
Father, is the demon realm that dangerous?
Yes.
Hugo responded briefly and nodded his head. After that, there wasnt any conversation about the demon realm, and the conversation was filled with trivial topics.
Whats this?
After finishing the meal and returning to the bedroom, Shiron, lying on the bed, looked over the stack of papers handed over by Yuma.
Its a handwritten introduction I wrote yesterday.
Ha
Realizing the extent of their preparation done without his knowledge, Shiron indirectly felt their determination and chuckled. Clearly, during the meeting with Hugo, Yuma had been present and had taken the initiative to select maids to accompany Shiron to the capital, alleviating Shirons burden.
Hmm
Shiron slightly narrowed his eyes, showing a hint of contemplation. Deep thoughts crossed his eyes. Yuma then spoke to Shiron.
I recommend Encia and Roselin.
And the reason for that recommendation?
Based on yesterdays interviews, I judged they would be the most helpful to you.
Shiron withdrew his gaze from Yuma and looked over the stack of papers again.
The papers listed the maids names, faces, and various other details. From these papers, one could feel the extent to which they wanted to follow Shiron.
Can you explain the criteria for this judgment?
Of course.
Yuma nodded once.
Although the guardians of Dawn Castle are all outstanding individuals, your biggest concern would likely be their temperament and their ability to avoid causing issues.
Go on.
Considering these factors, I thought Encia and Roselin would be most suitable. Just as Encia has shown a gentle demeanor towards you and Miss all this while, she has exhibited a friendly demeanor to young Prients over the last five hundred years.
I thought so.
Shiron recalled a mischievous maid in his mind.
Unlike other maids who strictly adhered to a subordinate demeanor, the blonde maid had cheekily teased Shiron, meaning she was quite affable.
Encia is passable
Considering the strength shown in the game, her temperament he had observed since the possession, having her by his side would be practical.
Flip
Flip
As Shiron flipped through the papers and reached Roselins profile, Yuma continued as if waiting for that moment.
Secondly, versatility. Of course, I didnt overlook Roselins temperament.
Versatility?
Yes.
Yuma nodded lightly.
Roselin can manipulate mana and is skilled in handling a considerable number of spells. This would surely offer you a wide range of options.
It makes sense, but
Shiron got up from the bed, walked over to the stove, and started throwing the papers into the fire.
Id like to take you with me.
For a moment, Yuma flinched.
You have the best versatility and sociability. Youre proficient in magic. And you always address even that insignificant Elder Knight with the utmost respect, dont you?
It seems like a good idea, but granting your wish is difficult.
Yuma looked down sadly.
Why?
Because of a contract.
Whats in the contract?
Shirons brows furrowed.
An unknown factor.
According to the setup, the demon maids were naturally not friendly towards humans.
However, the shock of betrayal by someone they trusted was enough to suppress their nature. They gathered here with a single goal: to get revenge on the Demon God. The fact that these proud and dominant ladies willingly chose to serve someone suggested to Shiron some form of coercion.
Something not mentioned in the game.
Shiron thought that this was a moment not to be missed. Better to listen now.
The content is simple. As you know, they keep attempting to raise a savior to kill the Demon God in Dawn Castle.
Whos the contract with?
The Apostle of God.
I see. I had a feeling.
Shiron let out a deep sigh.
Isnt this Apostle of God the real villain? Seems to have their fingers in every pie.
He gave the Holy Sword to the first hero and even involved suspicious families like the Prient. Shiron thought the Apostle was more dangerous than the Demon God.
Are the other girls also under contract with this Apostle of God?
No. The other girls are under contract with me. Consider me a representative or an agent of sorts.
Then its impossible to take you with us.
Unfortunately, yes.
Then call Encia and Ophilia. Lets renew the contract. Roselin is out.
Yuma tilted her head at Shirons confident expression.
May I ask why?
Ophilia is more to my taste.
I see.
A rare glimpse of Yuma being caught off guard. At that, Shiron chuckled softly.
Relax. I was joking.
No It was just unexpected. Indeed, Ophilia could be of great help to you.
I like provocative women.
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