"I felt bad about it, but I had a look at the documents."
The old man looked up at Crusch through the iron bars, his gaze feeling unreal, as if he was looking into the distance. He sat in the middle of the room, his legs folded, maintaining perfect posture.
In the garden, he folded up the rags he had been wearing from his shoulders and was left in only light clothing, and as we saw at first glance, he was undoubtedly a man of great training.
However, with his bone-like cheeks and stubble, his thick, colorless hair had lost its shine and was simply tied up messily at the nape of his neck. It was hard to deny that he looked unhealthy.
"――――"
"You have an appraising look in your eyes… Of course. I apologize for bringing this up without even introducing myself."
Closing one eye at the silent gaze, Crusch placed a hand on her chest and straightened her back.
His fearsome behavior made even the dusty air in the basement of the barracks shrink and disperse. The aura he exuded was truly eye-catching, and the expression in the old man's eyes changed subtly.
"I am Crusch Karsten, head of the Duke of Karsten family. During the recent exchange in the royal castle gardens, I came across the arguing between you and Lord Bordeaux, and have come to listen in on what was going on."
"Karsten, Duke...?"
As Crusch reveals her true identity, the old man's eyes change color once more.
It was filled with understanding and acceptance, and then another doubt emerged.
"The Duke of Karsten family was supposed to be headed by Lord Mekkart."
"Indeed. Mekkart Karsten is my father. He handed over the family headship about two years ago, and now I call myself Duke Karsten. He seems to be somewhat knowledgeable about the internal affairs... but it seems he's a few years behind in his knowledge. It seems that the cause of the argument lies somewhere around there."
"Was the kingdom's government officials so short-staffed that the Duke had to go to the trouble of investigating?"
"That's harsh. To be honest, I have no intention of prying into the quarrel between you and Lord Bordeaux. That was just an excuse. I needed to convince the soldiers who had withdrawn."
Crusch chuckled at the old man's sarcasm.
The two of them were facing each other at the Royal Guard Knights' barracks located very close to the Royal Castle, in the dungeon inside the guards' barracks next to it.
Hearing that the old man who had caused a commotion in the gardens had been brought here, Crusch had called the guards back under the pretext of interrogating them and gone to speak to them alone. Upstairs, Ferris was probably buying the guards some time by making casual conversation.
"An excuse, you say. That means you have a matter to discuss. Surely you haven't come here to be punished in person for your disrespect towards Lord Bordeaux?"
"Of course. And Lord Bordeaux himself doesn't approve of it. He claims that the fault lies with him. He will likely be released from custody tomorrow morning. If he behaves in the same way after that, there will be no way to defend him."
"...I have no apologies for such ignorance. What happened in the garden was caused by my immaturity. Being put in a cold dungeon would have only cooled my head."
His tone was a little smiley, but his expression didn't change at all. Still, his self-reflection was probably not a lie. There was no sign of anger towards Bordeaux, only self-indulgence.
However, the strength of his resentment felt to Crusch like a thick, suffocating wind.
--Anger, anger.
The emotion that took root deep within this old man and drove him with a searing heat was rage.
He was so calm, embodying a blade so sharp that it seemed to dazzle Crusch, yet his chest was boiling with such rage that it threatened to cause the steel to lose its shape.
And the source of that anger was...
"--Moby Dick"
"――――"
"Your eyes have changed color."
The moment he heard the mutter, a dark, murky emotion flashed through the old man's eyes.
It disappeared in an instant without leaving any lingering impression, but he was unable to escape the gaze of Crusch, who had anticipated his reaction.
Crusch held up the piece of paper she had been holding since descending into the dungeon - one of the pieces scattered around the garden - and continued speaking to the old man through the iron fence.
"It's as I said at the beginning. I know it's a shame, but I did have a look at the documents. However, most of them were retrieved by Lord Bordeaux himself, and the only one I have is one that he overlooked."
"...That person has always been a bit of a blind person. I've pointed out to him on many occasions that he was neglecting his feet. In the end, it never got fixed."
"That is Lord Bordeaux's character. It is difficult to imagine a perfect Lord Bordeaux."
"There's no doubt about that."
And it was only then that a shared smile graced the cheeks of both Crusch and the old man.
The feeling of it being tied by a bald old man lessened the gratitude, but Crusch let out a small sigh and ran her finger over the paper once more,
"I only have one copy, but thankfully it's not an unrelated one. The contents are very interesting. If this is true, it would be a remarkable discovery."
"――――"
"It's a compilation of information on confirmed appearances of the White Whale across the continent over the past decade. It's not just Lugnica, but Gusteko, Vollachia, Kararagi... if you include other small countries, the number is enormous. The dates it appeared, the dates the mist disappeared, the damage. It only touches on the surface, but does it really go into that sort of thing?"
"――――"
The old man doesn't answer.
In contrast to the silent old man's eyes which grew cold, Crusch's tongue grew warmer as she spoke.
Of course. How could this not be surprising and inspiring?
The White Whale. It is the name of an evil monster that has roamed the world since the time of the ancient witches. It is a product of malice that has caused so much damage and has yet to be defeated.
In the past, they had organized a subjugation force and attempted to subjugate the beast through a large expedition - but in the end, they suffered a historic defeat, and the kingdom's spirit was broken by a single magical beast.
The damage and scars that were caused at that time are still unhealed.
Many do not even notice that they have wounds. That is the most despicable and unforgivable quality of the Demonic Beast "White Whale." An act in which the victim does not notice the blood or wounds is an act of foolishness, even worse than despicable.
It's not just Crusch, everyone who knows the White Whale is angry about this.
"But the lord did not let his anger end as mere anger. His tenacity bore fruit, leading to the collection of this much information. If we can reveal the true extent of the ferocious power of this elusive demonic beast, how many lives could be saved?"
Traveling merchants and many others who travel the roads are constantly exposed to the threat of the White Whale. There is no way to protect one's mind from an entity that cannot be resisted and whose appearance is unpredictable and malicious.
"The number of those caught in the White Whale's venomous fangs will be greatly reduced. Your actions are worth that much. You should be proud. Your actions have saved many lives."
"――――"
"--You look as if you're saying, so what?"
"----!"
For the first time since delving into the contents of the document, the old man's expression changed.
Color returned to her cold face and eyes, and Crusch's consciousness pierced her brow.
Crusch tilted her chin in response to the old man's gaze, wondering what she was planning to say.
"I know what you're thinking, sir. You've spent a long time tracking down that beast's whereabouts, wearing down your soul. Using the information you've gained from all that effort, you'd choose to continue fleeing the threat of the beast – there's no way you'd choose something so passive."
"...So then..."
"That's obvious. The lord's aim is to defeat the White Whale. He has researched the timing of its appearance in order to be fully prepared and defeat the beast. The lord's fierce sword spirit - he must be a man of great renown. Such a man would put down his sword and search for a way out? Impossible."
If we think about it that way, we can see the content of the breakdown in the discussions between the old man and Bordeaux.
The old man and Bordeaux had been conspiring together to slay the White Whale, but the plan fell apart when the royal family fell ill.
One reason given is that Bordeaux's activities as a group of wise men are becoming busier, but the more pressing issue is probably the "problems on the White Whale's side."
"He requested to be sent as an envoy to Vollachia. If so, then according to your predictions, the next place where the White Whale will appear is the Vollachia Empire. And then..."
「If their appearance in the Empire is confirmed, then they will next appear in the Kingdom of Lugnica in six months. ――We will have certainty of that. And with that certainty, we will send out troops…!」
"Is that why Lord Bordeaux was hesitant?"
"Why?! Why are you trying to break your promise now?! Haven't you spoken so thoroughly of your resentment and anger towards the White Whale? You too… weren't you also angry at having her stolen from you… Have you forgotten Thearesia, Bordeaux…!"
A loud roar cut through the stale air of the prison, hitting Crusch on the earlobe.
The old man dropped his fist in frustration and bit his lip in anger.
It was anger towards Bordeaux for breaking his promise, hatred towards the White Whale, which he hated, and above all, an endless rage towards his own lack of power.
"...There is no time. If I let the next one go, it will be several years before the White Whale returns to Lugnica. If that happens, I will weaken. Even now... this body is continuing to wither and I have no time. The longer I put it off, the further away retribution becomes..."
"――――"
It's a scream.
He wasn't raising his voice. He wasn't even crying or screaming. However, it was undoubtedly the old man's scream, spewing out so loud that it seemed to wear down his very soul.
And every scream that shatters existence leaves an equal amount of pain and hurt in the heart of the listener.
Thearesia――the name the old man spoke was familiar to Crusch.
Of course. There was no way that anyone who held a sword would not know the name of the Lugnica Kingdom's Master Swordsman.
Thearesia was the name of the hero who had put an end to the civil war that had engulfed the entire kingdom, the Demi-Human War. A beautiful, incredibly strong woman, loved by the sword.
He was killed in battle while taking part in the White Whale subjugation force sent by the Kingdom -- or so I heard.
"--ah"
Immediately after Thearesia's name and fate flashed through Crusch's mind, a single existence came to mind.
A person connected to Thearesia, a person who had reached the pinnacle of swordsmanship to the point that Crusch trembled. There was only one such man, and he existed in her memory.
The man that is handed down through the generations is a demon who used his sword to overpower even the sword saint who ended the war, and who fell in love with and married a woman who was loved by the sword. A demon who loved a woman who was loved by the sword, and lived for the sword.
The demon who stole the woman from the Sword God.
"Sword Demon――Wilhelm van Astrea."
It was the name of a man who created legend upon legend.
The swordplay between the Master Swordsman and the Demon Swordsman was so fascinating that it was passed down through the generations as a song. When Crusch heard that song as a child, her heart was warmed, just like it was for many others.
So the person before him was the very sword demon he had always admired.
"I have long since abandoned that name. When I abandoned my duties and left my home, neither the Astrea family name nor the name of Van's sword belonged to me."
"Then what do you call yourself now?"
"Trias. The name of a fallen noble family that was wiped out decades ago in a corner of the kingdom. The last head of the family was a man who loved his people, even if he had no power to protect his territory. Now, all that remains is a vestige of the family that gave birth to a demon, lost in the world, unable to fulfill his obligations and gratitude to his birth family."
"Wilhelm Trias"
"Yes. That is the name of the demon who has now disgraced himself."
Placing his fists on the cold floor, the old man - Wilhelm - bowed while still sitting.
His dignified posture, while disrespectful to the nobles, did not convey that feeling. On the contrary, Crusch was captivated by it and took her breath away.
"The reason why you are aiming for the White Whale... is to avenge your wife, isn't it?"
"I have no other purpose... no, no other reason to live."
His gaze was crystal clear and showed no sign of wavering.
Having reached this point, Crusch finally understood Wilhelm's entire intentions. She understood what he had been single-mindedly striving to achieve for over ten years.
--And if things continue like this, that goal may end up not being achieved.
"--I understand your aspirations, sir. However, your wish will not be fulfilled if things continue as they are."
"...why is that"
"If you are relying on Lord Bordeaux, Lord Bordeaux will not take action. At the very least, it will be no time in six months when the next White Whale is expected to appear."
No matter how the illness of the royal bloodline is resolved, unprecedented chaos and confusion awaits the kingdom.
No matter how hard they try, it will shake up the entire kingdom, and people from top to bottom will be hit by change. The first to feel the effects will be the upper nobles and the Council of Sages.
"――――"
Wilhelm was silent.
However, it is obvious that his state of mind is not as calm as his expression and attitude.
Crusch's eyes could sense the overwhelming rage erupting from Wilhelm.
Ah, it's just pure anger.
The only thing inside the Sword Demon now was anger.
--regretful.
That was the only emotion Crusch felt towards Wilhelm.
It's frustrating. It's regrettable. It's a waste. These kinds of feelings come to mind one after another.
Deciding how you live your life and being tied down may seem similar, but they are fundamentally different.
Crusch believes in living as one is, as one's soul desires. She believes that this is the healthiest and most beautiful way to be, as it allows the "wind" of one's life to break through.
That was why he couldn't help but feel sorry for the Sword Demon, who was bound to his way of life.
His heart burned with unbearable rage, and over the course of a decade his pure blade had become clouded with rage, sharpening it to its former sharpness, and so here it was.
If he were to rot without achieving his goal, the Sword Demon's reputation in his later years would simply be tarnished.
Although he truly wanted to do something about it, he felt that just as he had the same responsibility as Bordeaux, Crusch's rash actions would not be tolerated.
I now understood the meaning of Bordeaux's anguished expression in the garden.
Or perhaps the name Thearesia was even closer to Bordeaux. Wilhelm called Bordeaux by his first name, and Bordeaux called Wilhelm a comrade. What lay between the two of them, at this moment, Crusch could never fathom.
"--Thank you for giving up your valuable time. However, it seems that there is no point in either of us talking any further."
He didn't intend for it to show on his face, but sometimes the eyes speak louder than words.
Looking into Crusch's amber eyes, Wilhelm found his answer. Even without relying on the 『Divine Protection of the Weathervane』, the passage of time would bring about a power similar to the eyesight of an ordinary human.
Crusch did not commit the rudeness of disguising her true feelings after they had been discovered.
"...What on earth are you going to do from now on, sir?"
"It's the same. If I can't rely on Lord Bordeaux, then I'll turn to other influential people. Until the moment my body decays, I will only spend my life seeking revenge."
"――――"
I had a dilemma.
Only the higher-ranking nobles could give a suitable answer to Wilhelm's demands. However, the upper-ranking nobles were all busy trying to calm the chaos in the royal palace.
It may be possible to find a lesser noble with the resources, but the power of their household is not enough to defeat the White Whale. Or they could rely on someone other than the nobility, but there are pros and cons to each of these.
If it was a powerful trading company - for example, a cunning man named Russell Fellow who had established his base in the royal capital, the sweet spot would be in getting information about the White Whale, not about defeating it, but about avoiding it, and turning it into a business.
At that time, it would not be surprising if Wilhelm, who had opened his mouth unnecessarily, was targeted for punishment.
If it were Wilhelm before he ran away, the prestige of the Astrea family would have protected him.
However, Wilhelm now calls himself Trias. His pride would not allow him to borrow the power of his family name. And if he went around as just a swordsman――
"You must not lose your temper. The only thing that can protect you now is your own actions and your actions alone."
"I understand. It would be a shame to be rash and not be able to achieve my long-cherished wish. I appreciate your concern."
Though he spoke politely, his heart had already left Crusch.
No doubt the old man had already exhausted all the ideas that Crusch could think of on the spot during sleepless nights.
If there was any information Wilhelm was truly seeking, it was none other than the reason for the chaos in the royal castle. And that information must never be revealed to anyone.
"Lord Torius... No, Lord Torius. I apologize for making you open your mouth when you did not want to speak. I brazenly hope that your wish will come true."
"Those are wasteful words."
Wilhelm closed his eyes and showed no signs of speaking again.
Crusch also no longer saw any point in saying any more here.
Without a word to each other, Crusch turned her back on Wilhelm with a flourish. Her flowing green hair cut through the air of the prison, pushing the beautiful man's back as he set off on the path to the surface.
"The story went well... but judging from your face, it doesn't seem like you're having a good time."
Just as I reached the top of the stairs and sighed, I heard a light voice.
At the entrance to the station - in the lobby, Ferris was creaking his chair as he peered at Crusch from below.
He tossed the cards he was holding onto the table and smiled at the two guards he was playing with.
"Well then, since master has returned, that's all for today. I'll have one of the Royal Guards come to collect the losses next time, so have your ears ready."
"What exactly were you betting on to buy yourself some time?"
"Umm, that's something I can't really bring myself to say, Feli-chan. But, but, if that's what Crusch-sama wishes, I'll bear the shame… Crusch-sama?"
Ferris, who had been blushing and fidgeting with his feet, changed his expression and walked towards Crusch. As he reached out and touched her cheek with his fingertips, their eyes naturally met.
"Your complexion is not good. Something serious must have happened."
"I can't hide this from you. Just like Prince Fourier, the number of worries that are beyond my control has increased. I even feel anger at my own inadequacy."
"But that's not going to stop you, Crusch-sama, is it?"
Ferris gently placed his hand on Crusch's hand, which was gripped so tightly that it was painful. Crusch's shoulders naturally relaxed, and Ferris' smile made her lips relax.
"Really, I'm no match for you. It seems like you know me better than I know myself."
"Of course I know every nook and cranny. There is almost no part of Crusch-sama's body that Feli-chan hasn't touched, inside or out."
Ferris' playful words somehow excited the guard behind him.
Though she was suspicious of the reaction, Crusch nodded and said, "That's true."
「I will withdraw today. But, tomorrow will be different. And the day after that will also be different. ーーLet it be so.」
※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※
The days since her encounter with Wilhelm at the barracks had passed just as Crusch had imagined.
The royal family's illnesses show no signs of improving, and after his release, Wilhelm wanders the country in search of new allies but gets no results. Crusch is also overwhelmed with work in the royal capital, and even has to ask for help from her reclusive father in the territory.
Of course, none of this was the fault of Crusch alone, but since she had been involved in all of it, any incompetence that could not improve the outcome was her own fault.
A sense of responsibility that could almost be called arrogant was the pride of Crusch Karsten.
Those endless, cloudy days came to an end very abruptly.
--The death of King Lugnica, Randhal Lugnica.
And just like him, the lives of those of his blood relatives who were barely surviving were taken one by one, and Fourier Lugnica was no exception.
Fourier passed away, with Crusch holding his hand.
Only Ferris had burned the memory of the tears streaming down Crusch's cheeks.
"New characters have been engraved on the Dragon History Stone. Do you all understand what they mean?"
At the parliament where the senior nobles gathered, the old man could not hide his excitement.
The old man's name was Count Leip Bariel. He was the lord of the Bariel territory, but he was also a man who was held in a special trust by the royal family and had been entrusted with a special role.
The special role he was assigned to was,
"A change in the Dragon Stone... a new revelation has been revealed on the prophecy board that foretells the kingdom's future?"
"Indeed. This is my duty bestowed upon me by His Majesty the Elder. I would like to inform you of the changes that have taken place in the Dragon Stone. I ask that you all listen carefully."
He kneels on the spot and gives a deep bow with his fist pressed together.
Leip's title was not particularly high in the meetings of the upper nobles, but the fact that everyone unanimously followed Leip's opinion was proof that the Dragon Stone had the power and achievements to do so.
The Dragon Stone - It is enshrined in the royal castle of the Kingdom of Lugnica, and is one of the sacred relics bestowed as proof of the pact between the royal family and the Divine Dragon Volcanica.
Just like dragon's blood, which brings fertility to the land, the Dragon Stone is also treated as something of extraordinary importance, and only members of the royal family and those with limited roles, such as Leip, are allowed to enter the room where the Dragon Stone is placed.
Dragon Stone is in the shape of a square stone slab, but the mineral it is made of has not been identified, and just like its material, none of its functions have been revealed.
However, one thing is certain: the stone tablet contains instructions on how to resolve any crisis that may occur to the kingdom.
In the past, Lugnica had escaped crisis many times thanks to the entries in the Dragon Stone, and its track record was fully guaranteed.
just,
"Wait. You said it was written in the Dragon Stone... can you trust it?"
As Leip was about to explain the contents of the conversation, a bald old man - Bordeaux - spoke up, interrupting him.
He glared sternly at the small Leip, who glared back at Bordeaux with a furrowed brow.
"I can't help but hear you say 'trust', Lord Bordeaux. The accuracy of the records in the Dragon Stone is well known to you, the members of the Council of Sages, who are the most important members of the kingdom."
"I admit that you have certainly saved me many times in the past. However, this time is different. If the Dragon Stone reacted to a situation that would affect the future of the kingdom, then why did it not react to the predicament that His Majesty and the other members of the royal family found themselves in? If the Dragon Stone truly cared about the country, then the right thing to do would be to show them the way to save His Majesty and the others!"
"――――"
Bordeaux raised his voice, but many at the round table nodded in agreement with what he said.
Crusch, who was sitting at the same table and watching the situation unfold, had the same sentiments. If the Dragon Stone had any intention of saving the country, it should have shown them the way to save the royal family.
I remember the moment when Fourier's grip relaxed and his eyes clouded over.
There was just a feeling of regret.
"---Regarding that matter, there is something I must tell you all."
"... What's this about?"
"Yes. First of all, the reason I didn't mention this to anyone was because of my own unilateral decision. Please keep that in mind when you listen."
"So what do you mean? Tell me clearly!"
"The records in the Dragon Stone were written before His Majesty passed away."
Bordeaux's expression was stunned by what Rype said.
But the reaction was not limited to Bordeaux. All those sitting at the Round Table watching the proceedings were left with open mouths and expressions of shock.
Crusch was also at a loss for words and looked at Leip in shock, wondering what he had just said.
"You must be wondering why I kept quiet. So, first of all, I want you to believe that my actions were in no way a betrayal of His Majesty."
"What a fool. Have you forgotten your duty? You have not fulfilled the duty bestowed upon you by His Majesty. How dare you call yourself a fool! The guidance of the kingdom is engraved on the Dragon History Stone...!"
"Even if the very content of that guidance implies the extinction of His Majesty and his bloodline?"
"Wha...!?"
Crusch held her breath as the bombshell of words was dropped one after the other.
Even Bordeaux, whose face was red, was stunned by his words. And,
"...Hmm. Bordeaux-sama, it seems like it would be best for you to calm down. Leip-sama, could you please tell me more about this?"
"As you wish."
An old man with a long white beard spoke to Bordeaux, trying to calm him down and reconcile him.
Mycloth, the representative of the Society of Sages, with his usual calm gaze, urged Leip, who was bending over with his hand on his chest, to continue the conversation.
"First of all, the oracle was given to the Dragon Stone about ten days ago... I was the one who discovered it while His Majesty was still alive. I should have immediately informed His Majesty, or should have informed everyone and asked for their decision... but I have arbitrarily decided to keep the contents secret until now."
"Hmm. Why would you say that?"
"The contents of the inscription were as follows. 'At the time of the extinction of the royal family, the kingdom must find five candidates to be chosen for the emblem, and once again make a pact with them as new shrine maidens.' I was unable to bring myself to convey this to His Majesty, who was bedridden."
"...What?"
Hearing what Leip had said, one of the high-ranking nobles sighed.
Such was the severity of the prophecy. It was none other than the prophecy board that predicted the end of the royal family's lifeline as they fought against the disease. Their track record and history would kill the royal family's hopes.
We must also consider what Leib's feelings were when he was unable to propose this.
"The Dragon Stone... is it that we should look for a new king, not the royal family? And what does it mean to have five people...?"
"We have an insignia. It is a jewel that has been passed down through the royal family of Lugnica and tells of the pact with the dragon. It lost its light when His Majesty passed away and the bloodline was cut off... but it is said that it will shine brightly in the hands of a new worthy bearer."
"Five people who can make the emblem shine... and you want me to find them?! That's ridiculous! That's not the way to choose someone to assume the throne!"
"So you're going to ignore the records?! If we can't select a shrine maiden who can withstand the covenant, the history of Lugnica will end here! The same goes for the bond formed with the dragon!"
Those who tried to deny it were met with harsh words from Leip. Those who tried to argue back with their common sense were all silenced.
However, there are some who raise their hands.
"Is it okay to speak?"
"Sir Karsten? Please, what would you like to say?"
"It's not a big deal. It's only natural that only negative opinions stand out, but we should first verify the accuracy of the description. Are the insignia themselves ready?"
"I have. Bring it."
Nodding at Crusch's words, Leip nodded and the doors to the assembly hall slid open. A chamberlain appeared, carrying on a cart an item bearing the insignia of the Lugnica royal family.
Priority is given to those with strong ties to the royal family, such as the Royal Guard Knights.
It was a triangular black stone with a gold dragon design carved into it, with a red jewel set in the center. It always shone brightly as a sign of royal authority, but since the death of the king, it had lost its luster.
"So this will light up again?"
"Yes, if you have what you need, that is."
The attendants placed the insignia in front of each person around the round table.
Looking down at the insignia, some broke out into a cold sweat, others held their breath.
If it were to shine in your hand, it would mean that the path to the throne had opened.
Some were purring at the weight of their responsibilities, others at their more modest ambitions.
"How was it, Lord Leip?"
"If you concealed the records and then allowed me to display the insignia, it would only invite suspicion. The jewel would never choose someone who would bring about such discord."
Leip shook his head in response to the question, but to what extent was his denial serious?
Snorting, Bordeaux took the initiative and picked up the badge. However, in his firm palm, the badge had lost its shine. It seemed that the badge had never chosen him.
Next, the rest of the Sages' Association, including Mycroft, took the picture and shook their heads.
Like that, everyone sitting at the round table picked up their insignia, and soft gasps and sighs escaped one after the other.
But then, that happened.
"--What?"
The one who spoke up was Mycroft, a rare look of surprise etched on his calm face.
However, there is no doubt that this was a speech that represented the feelings of everyone gathered there.
The dazzling shine of the insignia made Crusch look at her own palm and tilt her chin back.
"--It seems that even a pathetic person like me can still do something for the kingdom."
Saying this in a surprisingly calm state of mind, Crusch grasped the palm of her hand bearing the shining insignia.
He raised his face and closed his eyes.
I felt as if I could see Fourier's final smile through his closed eyes.
※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※
--The chaos that ensued in the parliament and the confusion surrounding Crusch's position are difficult to put into words.
The only thing that can be said for sure is that thanks to the Dragon Stone's description and Crusch's existence as proof of it, what Leip brought to the table became more real.
And now that Crusch was no longer just the head of the dukedom, but also a potential interim candidate for the throne, her opportunities to visit the castle were increasing even more than before.
Above all,
"As expected of Lady Crusch! Ever since we first met, Feli-chan has always thought that Lady Crusch was not suited to a position like that of a duke!"
After hearing the minutes and the details of the meeting, Ferris was overjoyed and learned that Crusch's position had clearly changed, bringing home a reality that even Crusch herself had not yet fully grasped.
"C-Crusch-sama? N-nyan, you're going to stroke my head? I'm happy, I'm happy, but no, I have weak ears...!"
"You always do what I need most. I'm counting on you to continue doing so."
"Y-yes... Feli-chan, I'm even more infatuated with Crusch-sama now."
Ferris' cheeks flushed as Crusch praised him, his tail swaying softly as he became genuinely embarrassed. Then Ferris's expression suddenly returned to normal,
"So, what position will you be in from now on, Crusch-sama?"
"Although it is provisional, I am a candidate for the throne. However, this is not yet certain. Besides me, I should be able to find four other candidates. After confirming them, we will discuss whether it is realistic to appoint a substitute shrine maiden and make a pact with the dragon."
"But, but, isn't it the description in the Dragon Stone? No matter how absurd that story may be, isn't it a prophecy from the dragon without even having to check with the dragon?"
"That is what people think. The suspicious Lord Bordeaux seems to suspect that Count Leib Barielle is a disguise. It seems a bit of a cynical thought, but... I am also a bit concerned about how Lord Leib will act. I am also concerned about the silence of Margrave Mathers."
Seated at the edge of the round table, Margrave Roswaal L. Mathers was attending the discussion in his usual attire when ascending to the castle - in other words, clown makeup and eccentric clothing.
He was concerned that someone who rarely showed up in the royal capital and often missed important discussions was quietly watching the proceedings and not stirring things up.
"Anyway, there's no point in being completely suspicious. I'm the same one who's having my painless belly probed, so I can't really say the same about Sir Leip or Sir Roswaal."
"Hmm! Are there really any scoundrels out there who have such suspicions about Crusch-sama?"
"It was a flow that even I thought was too good to be true. I'm sure even Lord Leip didn't expect a suitable candidate to appear at that event."
"But, Lady Crusch doesn't think it's too good to be true at all."
Seeing Ferris' face as if he wanted to say "hmm", Crusch couldn't help but give a wry smile.
Truly, Ferris, the servant, understood Crusch's heart better than Crusch herself did.
"--Ah, I don't think so. I just think that what was bound to come has arrived."
As they sat around that round table in the assembly hall, Crusch recalled how her heart had been.
When Leip brought up the topic of the Dragon Stone, he was as surprised as the others around him. He nodded in agreement at Bordeaux's rebuttal, but was also left speechless by Leip's response.
However, when she heard that the bearer of the insignia would be the next to take the throne, Crusch immediately decided to give it a try.
And when she saw the red orb of the insignia shining brightly in her palm, not a trace of surprise came over Crusch's heart. All that came was the sound of the wind blowing through her heart.
I thought I had been given an opportunity.
Fourier's wishes, his doubts about the state of the kingdom that he had continued to hear from Fourier's mouth.
This was her chance to give them her own answer.
Rather than dismissing Fourier's death as merely a sacrifice, the time had come to show what answers his death would bring.
Crusch Karsten calmly accepted this as a fact.
And it also provided an answer to another worry that had been troubling Crusch's heart.
"Ferris, I have a favor to ask of you."
"--I have confirmed his location. Just as Crusch-sama instructed."
Ferris closed one eye and explained what Crusch had asked, fully understanding it. In response, Crusch once again let out her familiar wry smile,
"Call him to the mansion. We can finally have a discussion with that Sword Demon."
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"I am honored to receive your invitation this time."
Crusch welcomed Wilhelm, who was on one knee and bowing deeply.
The location was in the reception room of Karsten's villa in the royal capital of Lugnica.
"It's been a while since we last saw each other. I hope you're well."
"Yes. I'm glad to hear that Sir Karsten is well."
After exchanging polite words with each other, they exchanged glances without changing their expressions.
It had already been discovered that Wilhelm's activities had not borne fruit since the recent incident at the barracks. Wilhelm had also accepted the invitation for some reason.
"It seems neither of us have any intention of having a long conversation."
"I have heard from the messenger that you will tell us the truth today. If possible, I would appreciate it if you could get straight to the point."
Wilhelm's gaze was briefly directed at Ferris, who was standing next to Crusch with a nonchalant look on her face. Today, her tail was sticking out from the hem of her short skirt, and she clung to Crusch's arm as she brushed aside the two looks.
It was an unreasonable request, but one that was well-thought-out. He had a much better talent for the underhanded tricks required by nobles than she did. That's what Crusch thought of Ferris in the back of her mind.
And put aside all other unloving thoughts,
"The truth is, the answer to why all of our proposals to hunt down the White Whale have been turned down. That's also the reason why Lord Bordeaux withdrew his plan."
"Yes. Everyone is keeping their mouths shut and refusing to tell the truth. What on earth is it that is making you all so tight-lipped? I'd really like to hear it."
"If you ask, you can't go back. Even knowing that, do you still want an answer?"
"If that obstacle stands in the way of my wife's murder, then I must overcome it."
An unbending will of steel.
At Wilhelm's answer, Crusch took a deep breath and exhaled.
It was the answer I knew, and the answer I wanted.
But still, I felt a slight reluctance to open my mouth here.
What Crusch was about to tell us was information that only a select few in the kingdom were permitted to disclose. It was not something that should be so easily revealed to Wilhelm, who was once a member of the lineage of the Master Swordsman but is now a runaway.
It took a moment to break that taboo.
But only for one beat.
"--His Majesty Landhar has passed away."
"----!"
Wilhelm's eyes widened, and immediately afterwards a look of understanding spread across his face.
But the surprises don't end there.
"Not only that, the entire royal bloodline has gone into hiding. The long-standing royal bloodline of Lugnica has been completely cut off."
"That's impossible! That can't happen!"
Wilhelm, who had been on his knees, raised his head and bared his teeth.
The absurd content of the story made the old man laugh and was angry. It was only natural that he would react so harshly. After all, Wilhelm,
"As a former leader of the Royal Guard, I don't think that's something I can overlook."
"..."
"But it is true. His Majesty is bedridden, and the illness has affected the royal bloodline itself. Of course, we provided the best healers and the best environment, but it was not enough."
"All the members of the royal family have lost their lifelines? That can't be true..."
Crusch shook her head and coldly told Wilhelm, causing him to collapse in shock.
Wilhelm's kneeling posture tilted, and he quickly put his hands on the ground and was speechless.
He understood it too.
Bordeaux's sudden change of heart and the reason why everyone ignored his pleas.
It was only natural that the issue of the White Whale, a matter of grave concern that concerned the survival of the kingdom, would be dismissed as inconsequential.
However, Wilhelm's anger was not shallow enough to be dismissed as a matter of course.
However, he doesn't know what to resent, what to be angry about, or what to be infuriated about.
So Wilhelm remained silent, slamming his fists into the floor to kill his anger.
His fist trembled as it was pressed against the floor, and blood slowly seeped out. He closed his eyes in frustration, and perhaps it was his remaining pride that prevented him from biting his lip.
But that shouldn't be the case.
That shouldn't be the case.
"This is not the time for a boy to show his stubbornness."
"--What are you doing..."
"Your situation remains unchanged. However, the dark clouds have cleared, and the true identity of what was blocking your path has become clear. What did you think when you heard that? It was none other than someone who roared that they would step on the path to their enemy. Have you forgotten?"
「There is no reason for me to accept this humiliation. You… what do you know…!」
"I don't understand anything. I don't even feel like trying to understand. Seeing the characters in the stories I once admired give up and stand still only makes me feel depressed."
Wilhelm's eyes were filled with anger, but the fire was still weak.
That was because it was a fleeting, flickering flame that had yet to find its way, a smoldering ember that had not yet attained the heat that Crusch desired, nor the sacred red color.
"I told you, Wilhelm. If I listen to you, there's no turning back. The matter is of grave importance to the kingdom, and you are now just an old tree in the city, a swordsman in name only."
"--What more do you wish to degrade this withered tree?"
"No. You're wrong, Wilhelm. I was the one who asked. It is your duty to answer. I have been asking you this question from the very beginning. From our meeting in the prison to our reunion here now, I have been asking you the same thing from the very beginning."
"――――"
"Wilhelm Trias. -- Are you okay with this going on?"
I gasped.
The sunken eyes of the old man open wide, and there you can see the blue of the sky.
Crusch nodded.
"Standing in your way is something important to the kingdom. With this, all of the high-ranking nobles who could lend you a hand have disappeared. Even if there were someone who could lend you a hand, it would be someone who is plotting to find out if they could provide you with the military forces you require, or if they could learn more about the White Whale that you possess."
"What are you going to offer me?"
"The questions continue, Wilhelm. I will continue to ask, and I will continue to demand answers from you. I will not engage with you unless you give me answers to my questions."
"..."
Wilhelm fell silent, and sharpened his gaze, trying to peer into Crusch's heart.
But Wilhelm would never be able to reveal what was in Crusch's heart. Even Crusch herself could not clearly put it into words, and surely only Ferris was able to see into it.
Ferris ignored the heated discussion and continued to stay by Crusch's side, neither interjecting nor showing any signs of concern.
He knows that this is the best way to encourage and support Crusch.
Crusch knows his compassion better than anyone.
Therefore, Crusch Karsten continues to be questioned.
"Wilhelm, if your path continues like this, it won't be long before it's cut short. Your revenge against the beasts you have continued to challenge will be wiped away, and your reputation will simply be tarnished. So."
"...You would give me a chance to swing my sword?"
"I repeat, Wilhelm. I am only asking a question. The answer must be given by you, Sir."
"――――"
Crusch spoke, arms folded.
Hearing this, Wilhelm took a deep breath and closed his eyes.
Then he straightens up, bows again, and opens his eyes.
The blue flame dwelling in his eyes sent an insensible shiver down Crusch's spine.
"--- I will slay the White Whale and avenge my wife. I need your help."
"…I am also a high-ranking noble. My lord, your proposals have all been rejected, so I should be in no different position to the other lords. Why are you asking me for this?"
"Your Excellency Duke Karsten, are you able to forgive the White Whale?"
"I can't forgive it. I can never forgive it. Who could forgive such a despicable act, such a foolish act, such an outrage, such heartlessness? But"
Cut off the words.
Crusch quietly closed her eyes at Wilhelm.
"What I cannot forgive the most is that because of that being's existence, the way of life of many is tainted. Their lives are clouded, their souls become clouded… I cannot forgive that no matter what. That is why, Wilhelm. I cannot forgive the way you are now."
"...What a pathetic sight."
"Oh, how disgraceful. I can't bear to look at it. Such humiliation is something I never experience very often. Therefore, the evil demons that caused it all are also unforgivable."
"――――"
Wilhelm raised his head and looked Crusch square in the eyes.
Crusch faced him without flinching at the sharpness of his gaze.
Their gazes crossed, then relaxed at the same time, and they both smiled as if in agreement.
"What do you want from this old tree, my lord?"
「That's decided. -- A true lord who does not shame his own soul and who will charm me. That is the very image of the Sword Demon, Wilhelm van Astrea, that I desire. Other than that, there is nothing else I desire.」
"I have already cast away the name of Sword Demon and the name of Astrea. I will not display any pretenses of self-worth until the moment I cut the White Whale to shreds."
"Then let me raise the victory cry. Only then will Wilhelm's name be revived."
"--teeth"
Wilhelm solemnly nodded at Crusch's words and bowed deeply as a vassal.
Seeing this, Crusch tucked her chin in satisfaction and walked towards Wilhelm, taking the sword hanging from her waist in her hand. And then,
"Take it."
Wilhelm naturally took the offered sword and smoothly drew it out.
It rotated in Wilhelm's hand again and was presented to Crusch.
Receiving the sword, Crusch brought the slender blade to Wilhelm's left shoulder. She lightly touched the tip of the sword to his left shoulder, then placed the blade on his other shoulder.
"I have only one request for you, Sir. Please protect it, Wilhelm."
"I will swear to you in my sword. I will swear to you in my soul."
"--Ah, that's fine."
Receiving the oath, Crusch drew her sword and took a stance in front of her.
Afterwards, he once again presented the sword to Wilhelm, who then sheathed the blade and respectfully raised it.
"You should hold that, sir. A swordsman wouldn't look good without a sword."
"But-"
"I want to see you stand with your sword in hand."
At Crusch's request, Wilhelm blinked once and stood up.
The tall old man then bowed once in front of Crusch, took the sword he had received and lowered it to his waist, then stood upright.
With just that, Crusch found her doubts pleasantly blown away.
--And so, the oath of master and servant was fulfilled.
Fulfill Wilhelm's wish and carry on Fourier's hope.
If Crusch Karsten was God's choice, then that was also God's wish.
Follow your soul's guidance and do what you must do.
In this way, we can pick up everyone we can and may peace be found wherever we arrive.
--On this day, the Sword Demon received the greatest help in slaying the White Whale.
It was the beginning of true unity among Crusch's camp in the royal selection process.
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"Oh, I'm getting jealous, seriously."
Wilhelm finds a way to achieve his ambition, and Crusch is able to rediscover her former dream.
Ferris pursed his lips at the sight of the two of them, both feeling different emotions but also filled with joy.
"Crusch-sama, you're so into it that you're ignoring pretenses and getting straight to the point."
Originally, the plan was for Crusch to relate the story of the King's death, to take Wilhelm on her lap and explain the legitimacy of challenging the White Whale, and then to invite him to join their camp.
But partway through, Crusch's enthusiasm grew, and before you knew it, the story had taken this turn.
Although Wilhelm's blindness worked to his advantage, Ferris was secretly relieved, as it was undeniable that he was walking a tightrope.
He didn't want to see Crusch get depressed after failing to recruit her. Especially since that was inseparable from her admiration for the Sword Demon.
"Oh my, Crusch-sama, you make my heart flutter… that's what's so wonderful about you."
He announces that he has become a candidate for kingship and gathers the support of the people of the kingdom by defeating the White Whale.
If she ignored the pretense and got to the point, it would be obvious that Crusch's true feelings were to allow Wilhelm to achieve his wish and free the old man clouded with desire for revenge.
Along with this, Ferris also begins to make a list of those who, like Wilhelm, have lost family members or others to the damage caused by the White Whale and have not forgotten them.
For Ferris, who traveled all over the country as a healer and was well versed in both domestic and international affairs, even this was easy.
There were actually very few households in the royal capital whose weaknesses Ferris hadn't uncovered.
"She's so lovely and defenseless, I can't take my eyes off her… so Feli-chan better keep an eye on her."
Quietly, narrowing his yellow eyes, Ferris looked at the old man, one of his worries now gone.
A person who carries Crusch's admiration and expectations.
What would happen if those aspirations and expectations were betrayed?
"I don't want to think about that."
The young man's mutterings, only in his mouth, quietly faded away without reaching anyone's ears.
It was exactly six months after that night that the royal selection and the White Whale's attack became a reality.