It's been a few days since the Grand Lord Louise Rastinel went to rescue the Dauphin Ceylan after overrunning the stronghold of the agents sent by Nadar.


　The report came in while Arx, Noah, and Kazi were being entertained at Rastinel's mansion.
　--Louise Rastinel, after leaving the capital, had hurried her horses in shifts through the night to break through the barrier. With her soldiers, she kicked out the guards who were guarding the border of Nadar, and followed the Dauphin's trail.
　The Dauphin Ceylan, meanwhile, had just entered the Nadar territory and was staying in the first town when he met up with Louise. She gave him a report on the series of events, and he was able to retreat safely into the Rastinel territory.


　There was no pursuit from Nadar's side, and no attack by the agents who had been making bandits in other territories.
　The war of retreat, which had been feared from the beginning, ended with no cause for concern.
　With this, Poluk Nadar's plan to attack Ceylan was foiled, which was a relief.


　But of course, this is not the end of the story.
　According to the following report, Ceylan, after withdrawing from the Nadar territory, moved his base to the fortified city of Narvalondo in the Rastinel territory, and immediately called on the surrounding lords to defeat Poluk Nadar.


　He issued a proclamation to the western nobility appealing for justification to defeat Poluk Nadar.
　He then collected the forces of the western part of the kingdom, including nobles, monarchs, and minor lords, in order to form an army.
　The action was so swift and decisive that not only Nadar's side but also his allies were in a panic.
　As the lords gradually gathered on Ceylan's side, the Nadar side raised an army and declared war against the royal family.
　They declared an uprising against the Kingdom of Rynor.
　At the moment, Poluk Nadar's army of 4,000 troops, including standing troops, conscripts, and mercenaries hired with money, is marching toward the Rustinelle territory.


　Arx had expected the Gillis Empire, which was thought to be behind the invasion, but contrary to his expectations, the Empire seemed to remain calm. It may just be that they haven't taken any major military action, but the reality is that they are not.


　--It's a big deal, isn't it?


　That is the impression that Arx has of this incident.
　Perhaps he was being overly self-conscious, but he couldn't help feeling that his small action had led to a war.
　Even though it was inevitable that this would have happened even if Arx himself had not done anything, it somehow made him feel strange.


"To think that a small action could cause a civil war. You're like a mastermind pulling the strings behind the scenes.

Shut up.

But you're far too pretty a face to be ruling the underworld. You want to try on a mask next time?

Shut up.


　It's another thing to have such an exchange with your followers.



　----......



　A few days after the Dauphin Ceylan announced the defeat of Polk Nadar.
　A few days after the Dauphin Seiran announced the defeat of Poluk Nadar, Arx and his friends were called by Louise to visit the fortified city of Narvalondo with Diet.
　It seems that Louise reported the success of the Arks to Crown Prince Ceylan, as she had said in the warehouse district.
　As a result, the Dauphin himself is going to give a word of thanks, and now, in the audience room that was temporarily set up, he and the nobles who came to greet him are quietly waiting for that moment.


　...... At the back of the audience hall, at the top of the radiating staircase, there is an opulent chair with a canopy at the top that is different from the interior of the castle, perhaps prepared for Ceylan.
　Perhaps the canopy was prepared for Ceylan. From the top of the canopy, a bamboo screen hangs down in front and on three sides, giving it the appearance of an ancient Chinese throne that often appears in films about the world of men.


　This is where the next king, Ceylan Crosselrode, now resides.
　He is clad in a long black kimono with a Chinese touch.
　It is embroidered in red, reminiscent of fire, and gold, resembling a yellow dragon.
　There is a slit at the waist, perhaps for ease of movement.
　The cuffs of the sleeves were also wide, giving the whole outfit the appearance of a robe.


　Anyway, what is interesting is his face. ...... His hood is covered with a black veil, so it is difficult to tell whether he is a man or a woman.
　The crown prince of Rynor is said to have a tradition of wearing a veil on official occasions until he reaches adulthood, and never shows his face to anyone other than the royal family and their entourage.


　Ceylan must have been about the same age, but he seems to be extremely calm.
　He has none of the self-confident, frightened demeanor of a young man who has attained a high position.
　He remains perfectly calm and quiet, as if it were natural for him to be there.
　Moreover, he exudes a certain dignity that is hard to describe.


　--In this world, the royalty of a great country is an absolute existence.


　In the man's world, royalty is basically just an extension of the ruler, but in this world, royalty is synonymous with a transcendent being like a god in the man's world, so it is considered particularly absolute.
　In fact, all those who have royal blood in their veins are said to possess powers beyond human comprehension.
　Therefore, they are revered by the people for their military power and intelligence, and reign as kings.


　...... They serve many nobles in this way, like Ceylan.
　He sits in a chair on the platform.
　On the lower tier are his bodyguards.
　Louise Rastinel, a provincial monarch who has been granted control of the estate, and her son Deet, who is of a different rank than the other nobles and lords, sit near Ceylan as do the guards.
　Now the western nobles and the main lords under Louise were kneeling in front of Ceylan, giving their names and greeting speeches.


'Galanga Uiha, vassal of House Rastinel. I am here to assist His Royal Highness the Dauphin as an attendant of His Grace Louise Rastinel.

"Baroness Ronel, Rover Ronel. Rover Ronel of the Barony of Ronel. I have come at your behest.

"Pistalis Sharman, Countess Sharman. This is the first time I've heard of you. I will do everything in my power to serve His Royal Highness the Crown Prince in this war.


　And so on.
　It seems that not all the nobles and lords of the West were present.
　The number of western noble families that responded to the order was forty-four, including the upper and lower classes.
　There was one monarch, the House of Rastinel. The rest were lords of various sorts.
　It seems they've all gathered with their forces.


　Seiran, on the other hand, has only a few words for us.

　--Good luck.

　--I expect great things from you.


　He does not congratulate them on their participation, but simply gives them a cold impression.
　...... The Kingdom of Rynor is one of the most powerful nations in the world.
　It's a good thing that you're not the only one.
　Therefore, it is likely that he is behaving in this manner so as not to be underestimated by others.


　Anyway, the exchange of formalities changed when the greetings of the nobles came to an end.


"Ladies and gentlemen!　Your Highness, the General has arrived!




　A soldier's impatient report came in from the entrance, and a big old man appeared from behind him.
　Immediately, the air in the room changed.
　Perhaps it was because of the intense military might that the old man wore.
　As if a red-hot lump of iron had rolled into the audience hall, the air became hot and a burning sensation hit me. The way he strode about with a movement reminiscent of slowness, he reminded me of a flame giant from some mythology.


　And the people following behind him were probably the old man's men.
　Each one of them had a breathtakingly intimidating presence, suggesting that they were highly skilled.
　Their appearance, which seemed like an intrusion, caused a great buzz in the place.
　The nobles who had been waiting for the greeting fled to the side of the room.
　As if they did not want to displease the old man, they cleared the way for the Dauphin.


　Eventually, the old man dropped to his knees in front of Ceylan, and the clamor grew louder.


The old man kneeled in front of Ceylan, and the noise grew louder.


　Gadourd Belhaan.
　This name sounds familiar to Arx.
　He is the head of a large military faction based in the northwestern part of the Kingdom of Rynor and is a brave general who is called a great general himself. As can be seen from his title, he runs a military state with high military power.
　He has the Kingdom of Rynor as his backing, and is also a major force that House Crosselrode can rely on in the west.


　As soon as Gadourd came forward, Ceylan's voice, which had been all but pale, took on a certain joyful tone.


"Oh, General Gadourd. I am pleased that you have agreed to my request.

We are indebted to the royal family, so it is only natural that we should come to you in this way.


　Gadourd's speech was clear and ageless.
　He spoke with a clearness that belied his age. His mouth did not tangle, his voice did not falter, and his strength was evident.
　He also hung his head deeply with his words.


"However, I would like to ask you to refrain from summoning me on this occasion.


　The next words that followed were something that no one could have predicted.


　The next words that followed were something that no one could have predicted. The joyfulness in Ceylan's voice suddenly turned to coldness.


"......?　You will not respond to my request, and you will not send reinforcements?

"Haha. Exactly like that.


　But Gadourd replies to the disappointment in his voice without hesitation.
　He was so rude to his superiors that the place was buzzing again.


"You refuse to comply with His Highness' request!

How dare you show your face before His Highness!

How dare you appear before His Highness?


　What the hell are you doing here?" The accusations converged on Gadourd.
　The people who raised their voices were the nobles of the kingdom. They were being disrespectful to their main family, the Crosselords, and their legitimate son. Even those with great military power would be tempted to lash out in anger.
　However, Gadourd and his men did not take any action against the accusations.
　This only made the accusations worse.


　Just as it was getting out of hand, a member of Ceylan's entourage spoke up in a clear voice.


"Quiet, people. We are still in the middle of a conversation. Or are you trying to prevent His Highness from speaking?

"......

......


　When the nobles heard the aide's words, they groaned sparsely and fell silent.
　It was necessary to condemn Gadourd's rude behavior, but they must have restrained themselves, thinking that they could not interrupt Ceylan's speech.
　The audience hall became quiet for a while.
　First, Gadourd opened his mouth.


You are here because you are reasonable. We have come here because we have reason to believe that it would be unreasonable for us not to greet the royal family, to whom we owe so much, even though we are unable to respond to this summons.

So that's why you've come all the way out here with your army?

"Ha!


　Gadourd bowed his head again, still on his knees.
　But what is the purpose of this action of his?
　If he only goes out to say hello, but does not respond to the request, it is obvious that he will displease Ceylan. I'm sure he's not a person who doesn't understand that, and if so, why did he take the trouble to do so?


　His words were few and his attitude was unrecognizable.
　To this old general, Ceylan said.


"Gadourd Belhaan. I ask you.

"Ha!

"Why is it that you say in front of me that you are indebted to the royal family and yet you cannot send reinforcements?　There must be a good reason why you refuse to go to war.

"We believe it is for the best.

"The best?

"The best?

"............ I see.


　Ceylan said, and fell silent for a moment. He turns to face Gadourd.
　It was as if he was searching for some unseen source of judgment around him.
　Eventually, an answer came to him.


"Hmm. I understand. Gadourd Belhaan. It's a pleasure to meet you.

Ha! My men and I wish you good fortune in this war. If that's the case, I'd like to take my leave now.



"Well. I would have liked to have had a little more time to talk with you, but ...... can't be helped.

Whenever it's peacetime. I'd like to have a nice talk with you and your Majesty.

"Yes, I look forward to that time as well, General. It must be lonely for a man of your stature to be so short-handed on his return. Take a souvenir with you. I'll have them prepare whatever you want.

"Thank you for your kindness.


　And so the greeting of Gadourd was settled in such a way.
　Not only myself, but also the other nobles were wondering about this somewhat harmonious exchange.
　He had refused to help them, and now he was treating them with a gift. It just doesn't make any sense.
　In the meantime, Gadourd left the audience room with his men.


　...... Eventually, the main nobles finished their greetings and it was finally my turn.


"Arx Raytheft, before His Royal Highness the Dauphin!


　When I was called by my entourage, I felt my body stiffen due to nervousness.
　Then, Noah, who was standing next to me, said.


(...... Arx-sama. Please brace yourself.

(...... In this kind of situation, don't you think they can help ease the tension?

(It's better to be tense in this kind of situation. (On the contrary, it is better to be nervous on such occasions. If you are relaxed, people around you may think that you are disrespecting His Royal Highness the Crown Prince. It is better to make yourself appear to be afraid of His Highness.

(...... I see.)

(I checked beforehand, but let me repeat. You can only look up after the second permission has been granted. After the greeting, bow your head, reply as little as possible, and don't deny the Crown Prince's words.

(All right. Thank you.


　After listening to Noah's rushed advice, follow the formality and step forward, lowering your gaze so as not to be seen by Ceylan. While I was thinking that it was troublesome to be bound by the old formality even though the Dauphin had appeared before the rest of us and was thus allowed to answer directly.


　As I stepped forward, there was another buzz around me.
　Of course, the reason for the commotion was different from the one at Gadourd.


　--Why that kid?

　--I've heard of him. I believe his name is ........

　--What the hell is going on here?


　Questions came from everywhere, and quizzical glances were focused.
　It wasn't a good feeling, but he didn't have time to worry about that right now.
　It was right after he received the instructions, heard Noah's words, and stepped in front of Ceylan.


(This is ......?)


　Suddenly, an intense tension binds his body tightly.
　I immediately realized that this was the result of Ceylan's pressure.
　My hands were sweating from the pressure, a different kind of pressure than that of the national mages, and a chill like a chill was coming over me.
　My skin tingles and goes numb.
　Every time you try to move your body, it goes all over you.
　Just as I was panting from the sensation of not being able to breathe due to the sense of danger as if a sharp edge had been placed on my neck.


"Arx Raytheft. Raise your head.


　When I didn't follow the instruction from Ceylan's aide, the same words were spoken again.
　Finally, he looked up.
　Right in front of me, on the stage, was the figure of Seyran, clad in black.
　I couldn't see what was behind ...... the black masks.
　Eventually, a voice called out from the stage.


"Are you Arx Raytheft?

"Oh, it is a pleasure to meet you, Your Highness. I am Arx Raytheft, the eldest son of the Raytheft family, and I am honored to be here at your invitation. ......

"............


　I bowed my head in greeting, but received no response from Ceylan.
　Was there a mistake or something inappropriate in his speech?
　I felt as if he was giving me a searching look from behind his masks.
　As such anxiety gradually surfaced, Ceylan let out a light breath.


I'm not sure what to say. It is a great honor for you to be here. You were the first to notice Poluk Nadar's nefarious scheme, and it saved me from being caught in the middle. I thank you with all my heart.


　As Ceylan spoke his thanks, the murmur grew louder.
　The crowd grew louder as Ceylan thanked him for saving the Dauphin.
　In a society like this, it is rare to receive praise from the sovereign, but it is especially rare to receive thanks directly.
　The nobles of the kingdom were all shouting in surprise.
　Eventually, after they had quieted down.


As a vassal in the service of the royal family, it is only natural for me to act for the sake of the royal family and His Highness. Nevertheless, I am deeply touched by your kind words.

"I see. A vassal in the service of the royal family. That you are aware of being a member of a noble family at your age is an admirable aspiration. I'm pleased to be your superior.

"...... haha.


　He replied by hanging his head again.
　But I didn't expect to get so many words from you.


　I was expecting a simple word or two, but instead I got a thank you, followed by praise. Moreover, the words seemed to be a little softer than the ones he had just returned to the nobles.
　Just when I was feeling somewhat embarrassed after being thanked by Ceylan.


"So, Arx Raytheft. I will allow you to be by my side in the war. In this war, you will fight under me.


　Such unexpected words were spoken to me.


"What?


　For a moment, I didn't understand the meaning of the words.
　For a moment, I did not understand the meaning of the words, but as the reverberations of Ceylan's voice gradually penetrated my brain, I began to understand.
　I will allow you to be on my side in war.
　In other words, this means that you should participate in the battle to defeat Nadar.


　The reason you came to ...... was so that you could receive a thank you note from Ceylan.
　You will find a lot of things that you can do to make your life easier.
　However, the Dauphin Ceylan seemed to think that she was going to join the war.
　I quickly turned my gaze to Louise, and she looked quite surprised.
　So, she didn't know about this either.
　Aside from Deet, who was happily pumping his fist in the air next to her.


　Ceylan's voice sounded slightly cold, probably because he couldn't give an appropriate response.


...... What's wrong. You have something to complain about?

"No, no!　No, sir, not at all!

Very well then. You will do well in this war.

"Ha-ha-ha!


　I nodded in agreement.
　That was the worst. There's no escape now.
　If I objected here, it would mean that I was unhappy to fight under Ceylan, and possibly that I objected to Ceylan's defeat of Nadar.
　Even if he really did not want to go to war.
　So I had no choice but to nod.


(Seriously? ......)


　This is the world. I knew that if I wanted to achieve a certain level of status, there would come a time when I would have to do something like this. I had planned to perfect my magic and do everything I could before that time.
　But I never expected it to come so soon.


　As he waited patiently for his ...... aides to tell him to back off.
　Suddenly, one of the nobles in the room spoke up.


"Your Royal Highness, please allow me the opportunity to speak. ......


　A nobleman stepped forward in front of Ceylan and prostrated himself.
　He was in his thirties.
　He has a beard, and his skin is tanned and dark.
　His skin is tanned and dark. He may be a military nobleman, and he is well built.


　His aides shouted their disapproval at the unauthorized offer.


"Count Bow!　Arx Raytheft's rite of passage is not yet complete!　Stand down!

'I beg you to bend over and allow me to speak. Get down, please, please, please.


　The nobleman called the Count was warned about the sudden interruption, but he didn't want to back down at all.
　Just after the aide's presence became sharper and sharper, Ceylan spoke up.


You're the Earl of ...... Dows Bow, aren't you?

Haha!

You are the Earl of Dows Bow. I'm still in the middle of speaking to Arx, so how dare you rudely interrupt me with your beak?

"... I have no words to apologize for interrupting the Crown Prince. However, as the Crown Prince's vassal, there is something I must say. Please, please, please forgive me. ......


　As soon as Count Bowe made this appeal, his bodyguards began to move.
　He may be trying to force Count Bowe to step back.
　But Ceylan restrained him with his hand and asked the Count.


"Hmm. What? Tell me.

"I'm afraid he's only a child. I'm afraid he's too young to play the important role of standing by His Highness' side on the battlefield, let alone in peacetime. And if anything were to happen to His Highness the Crown Prince because of that, it would be a matter of great importance to the kingdom. As His Highness' vassal, I cannot overlook this. I ask that you reconsider your decision. ......


　That statement, of course, was not made with concern for a child going into battle.
　It was a complaint that he was unfit to serve as the Dauphin.
　Naturally, there must have been someone who thought the same as the Count.
　A whisper came from among the assembled nobles.


You can't have a child like that by your side on the battlefield, no matter what. ......

And I believe Arx Raytheft was a bastard.

There is no way that such a person could serve in His Highness' entourage.


　These were all voices that questioned his ability.
　This was because the rumor had gotten around among the nobles.
　But as soon as his aide gave him a glare, those voices instantly disappeared.




"Count Bow. It's not uncommon for a young man to be highly skilled. That goes for me as well as the legitimate son of House Rastinel. In addition, it is said that Arx Raytheft made an effort to control the base where the operatives were packed. So I'd say you're capable of doing that.

"Well... There is no doubt that there are those who are powerful beyond their years, as you say, Your Highness. But it is only a handful of noblemen. It is unthinkable for a mere child of a lowly nobleman to have such a natural disposition.


　When Count Bowe finished saying that, he turned his head to me lightly.
　The smile on his face was one of derision. The smile on his face is that of a man who wants to ostracize others, as if to say, "It is unbecoming for you to stand by His Highness.


(This guy ......)


　It makes me angry to know that this is a blatant insinuation. Even though it was not my intention to stand on the battlefield, I don't want to be called like this.
　But we can't say a word about it, and we can't argue with it.
　The other party is a count. He is not in a position to face us head-on.


　The Count continued to talk while we bit our teeth in frustration.


And the earlier story about the control of the stronghold is also doubtful, isn't it? I can't help but wonder if this man had a hand in it.


　When the Count said this, Louise interrupted him.


"What?　So you're saying that my men were blind?

Yes, yes. That's the straightforward answer.

That's what the Count said. ......


　When the Count heard Louise's words, his face turned grim.
　You'll be able to find a lot more information on this subject in this article.


"My Lord Louise. I'm sure you're not the only one with a big estate, but as a nobleman of the kingdom, isn't it a bit much to call me a count?　The title of count in the kingdom is a venerable position given to a family that has done a great deal of work for the royal family and, by extension, the kingdom. I would like you to rescind your earlier words right now--

"Ah!


　Without waiting for her to finish her sentence, Louise slammed the Count with an intimidating voice.
　In the meantime, the Count cried out like a chicken closing its mouth, and then squirmed and squeaked. Despite his size, which is one of the best among military nobles, he looks like a small animal.
　As the Count screamed, Louise's vassals launched a fierce attack on him. The Count's face instantly paled because of the hostility of those who were sure of their abilities.


　The Count's face instantly paled as he was met with hostility from people of proven ability. Not only that, but Louise's words grew even stronger.


"You!　To me!　You're the one!　How dare you talk to me like that!　What?


　In the ...... audience room, Louise's powerful military might exploded.
　It was an intimidating feeling that surpassed that of Gadourd's earlier.
　In the face of this pressure, the Count gulped and swallowed his spit as if he was scared.
　Even though he was a senior aristocrat, he was a different actor to begin with.
　Charlotte's father, Perce Clemmeria, was also a Count.
　It seems that even those who are given the same rank can range from the best to the worst.


　Louise's anger filled the audience room with a swift and swift atmosphere.
　Are the other nobles also shaken? Only a few of them were able to maintain their composure.
　In this atmosphere, Ceylan opened his mouth.


"Louise. Stand down.

"...... is... I apologize for the distraction in front of you.


　After Ceylan intervened, Louise quietly withdrew.
　I'm not sure what to say.


I'm sure you've heard of it. There is no way that such a fool would be able to take on the role of being by His Highness' side. I'm sure the others are of the same opinion.

"Hmm.

"If Your Highness desperately needs someone to serve him, it would be more appropriate to assign someone else. I may be presumptuous, but I've served with distinction as a military officer, and I think I'm good enough to serve at His Highness' side.


　The Count began to say such things in the midst of his objections.
　You have a thick skin. He must have been planning to steal the servant from the beginning.
　On the other hand, the nobles, now aware of the Count's shenanigans, began to shout that they had been outwitted.
　And then...


"Count Bow. I understand what you're saying.

Ha!　Goodbye!

"Yes.

　Hearing Ceylan's words, the Count's tone of voice clearly improved.
　The Count's voice clearly improved when he heard Ceylan's words, probably because he felt that his opinion would be accepted and that he would be able to serve Ceylan's side.
　The Count's face brightened visibly.
　On the contrary, Louise's face, who had been arguing with him earlier, became stern.


　The other aristocrats seemed to be in the same boat, complaining about being left out.


　Just when it seemed that Count Bow was going to be chosen as a temporary servant.
　Ceylan said something unexpected.




"I mean. You're questioning my eyesight?







"Huh?

That's what you mean, isn't it?　I ordered Arx to stay by my side because I judged with my own eyes that Arx was worthy. If you disagree with that, then you are implying that my eyes are blind.


　Ceylan gave the reason for his answer in a simple manner.
　It seems to be reading too much into the Count's objection to turn it into a criticism of himself, but Ceylan goes on to corner the Count.


Even though this is the first time I've gone into battle, I didn't expect such a frank attitude from a high-ranking nobleman who will become my power. I'm not sure what to make of it. No, I don't think there's any criticism like that.


　I'm not sure if I'm talking to myself or if I'm telling myself that.
　It is not clear if he is talking to himself or if he is saying it to himself.
　Of course. There is no way that the Kingsguard will remain silent in their criticism of Ceylan.
　This is just a replay of what happened to Louise earlier.


　The Count begins to get very impatient with the sense of danger that far exceeds the previous one.


No, no!　I didn't mean anything by what I said!

No?　Isn't that what you just said, if I were to paraphrase you?

No!　Never!　Never! Never!　I just wanted to say that this man is not fit for service!


　The Count hangs his head in denial.
　The Count hung his head and denied it. It must not have occurred to him that his words would humiliate Seyran. It was a good thing that he had recommended himself out of a sense of greed, but now he realized that it had been a shallow decision.
　After all, it might be taken as a criticism of the royal family to speak out against it.


　...... Another factor in this story is that I don't really understand Ceylan's thoughts.
　It is clear that this decision to keep him at hand is based on his personal judgment.
　However, now that Ceylan has said so, if he were to retract his decision and accept the Count's opinion, he might be perceived as indecisive.
　If he did so, his judgment as the crown prince would be questioned, and the lords' evaluation of Ceylan would, as he said, fall into darkness and stupidity.
　It would be unbecoming of a superior to so easily accept direct orders.


　Ceylan began to let out a disconcerting chuckle.
　As the lords began to feel uneasy at the sound of that dangerous laugh.


"But, Count. You have a point. But Count, you have a point. I'm a first-timer, so I'm sure I'm not always up to snuff when it comes to warfare.

No, no, no, no. ...... I never meant it in that way. ......


　The Count reiterated his denial, but Ceylan seemed to have hardened to the idea that he had been criticized for this. He didn't seem to accept it at all.
　There was only one course of action that Count Bow could take against the Dauphin, who continued to spit out disturbing laughter and sounds and even threatened the lords.


"Your Royal Highness!　I beg you!　Please allow me to retract my inadequate statement. ......

"Good ....... Count, you may leave now.

"It's .......


　The Count opened his mouth and let go.
　The Count stopped and did not move, and Ceylan's aide shouted at him.


Count Bow!　How long are you going to keep doing that?　Your Highness wants you to step back!

"Haha!


　The Count backed away in a panic, as if fleeing from the scene.
　In the event you're not sure what you're looking for, there are a few things you can do.
　The way he was laughing ...... was incredibly scary.
　The audience room became quiet as if it had been hit by water, in direct proportion to the high and loud laughter of Ceylan.


　--I have aroused Ceylan's wrath.


　As the lords broke into a cold sweat, Ceylan stopped laughing and stood up from his chair.
　And then.


Listen up!　I have no intention of changing this decision!　Just like my father, King Shinru Kroselord, I have the power to see things correctly and the power to guide you!　I will prove it to you in this battle!　Know that it is impossible for me to make a mistake!


　When Ceylan said this from the stage, all the nobles in the room fell flat and affirmed Ceylan's words.
　Ceylan then pointed his sword, still in its sheath, at them.


"Arx!

Ha!

Take a leap of faith in this war. Don't let me make you think I was wrong.

"Yes, sir!


　I replied vigorously.
　No, I had no choice but to say so.
　If I say I can't do it here, I won't just get my head chopped off.
　It's a big responsibility.


　You were only supposed to join the fight, but now you have to defend Ceylan's honor because of the idiot Count.


　...... Finally, an aide calls out to him, "Back off.


　--I don't know, how did this happen?


　That's the only word that comes to mind.
　...... Needless to say, I wanted to strangle Noah, who smiled and said, "Congratulations," when he returned to his original position.