Enchis III-2

The box containing my father's ashes.

"Yes, I did receive it. The family members at the manor are indeed blood relatives. They won't treat it lightly."

The guildmaster takes the small box.

"What has become of the family?"

"Not good, but not cause for despair either, I'd say. At first I wasn't sure what would happen, but it seems experience has been building up—lately, they've been making much better decisions. You won't have to worry about them anymore, soon enough."

"I see... That's good."

What exactly he meant by "good" was impossible to fathom.

"William, shall we keep an eye on your family?"

"...Let's not. If I see her, I might not be able to leave her side anymore."

"Ah, I see. Got it. I've delivered the message, so let's head out now."

We left the guild and quickly returned to the magic carriage.

"Hey, monk, are you done with your goodbyes?"

"Please, stop. I'm not that young."

It seemed Coil and William had become quite friendly with each other by now.

As they chatted casually, the magic quadracycle lifted into the air.

Once it had gained sufficient speed, the magic quadracycle easily crossed the mountain and quickly entered imperial territory.

They arrived at the mansion in no time.

The noise of the magic quadracycle landing caused people to gradually emerge from the mansion.

"Sister," "William."

The two naturally locked eyes with each other.

A crowd had gathered around William.

While watching the emotional scene from a distance, I speak to Alex.

"I plan to return to the battlefield soon."

Alex nods.

"The capital's situation looks dire—on the brink of collapse. Any reckless move could happen at any moment."

"I agree. Our easy infiltration was due to their lack of manpower. There's no time left. We might as well launch a desperate attack at any moment."

Alright, let's begin preparations.

"Taro, are you alright?"

"I'm fine... I mean..."

"The next time, you'll definitely kill someone. That's the result of fighting as a soldier on the battlefield. It's not a crime, but are you really alright?"

"I can't say I'm used to it. But if we don't stop here, even more people will get hurt. Then, there's nothing we can do but stop now."

"So you've made your decision, then. Very well. I'll accompany you since I need to confront that man myself."

"A man with a weapon similar to yours. Who is that man?"

"James Bonaparte. He serves as the kingdom's military strategist, and formerly my family's political enemy."

"Are you sure you're okay with this?"

"Yes, I'm fine. Unlike you, I'm more suited to battle."

"Is that so?"

While making light remarks, I sort through the luggage, setting aside items that need to be replenished.

As I move about busily, the sun quickly begins to set.

Returning inside the manor, I find the knights bustling about frantically.

They're preparing William's room as if he's just come back, apparently wanting to throw a celebration.

Watching this scene, William looks flustered and overwhelmed—seems like I haven't seen him looking so flustered in a while...

A small celebration was held, and everyone rejoiced at the long-awaited reunion centered around William.

"Mr. Taro. May I have a word with you for a moment?"

Lina approaches him.

"Ah, of course."

"Thank you for rescuing William, just as you promised. I wish to repay this kindness in any way I can."

"No need to be so formal. I was happy to help, and I'm glad it worked out."

Lina straightens up from her bow, smiling warmly.

"It's not like everything went perfectly."

"I heard about your father. I think it was good that William was able to be there at the end. I believe your father found peace."

"Yeah... I think so too."

"Anyway, let's talk about us from now on."

Lina's expression turns serious.

"We'll be living in the Empire from now on. But we don't have any way to earn a living."

"There's plenty of money and space available. You're welcome to use this mansion until you've acquired a trade."

Lina makes a slightly discontented face.

"Mr. Taro, I truly appreciate your offer. I'll do my best to master a skill as quickly as possible, but I'd like to continue our relationship for as long as possible from now on."

"Ah, that's fine."

"Do you understand what I mean?"

Ugh, I'm terrible at reading between the lines.

"Mr. Taro. Once this battle ends, you'll receive your noble title, won't you?"

Or...

"Did you hear that?"

"Yes, I did. I knew it was wrong, but given our circumstances, we couldn't help but listen in."

"It's fine. I wasn't hiding anything. But I'm just a commoner at heart. I don't think I'll ever become the kind of noble you might imagine."

"Mr. Taro, would you be willing to have us serve you when you receive your noble title?"

"Something like a maid or butler, a servant, you mean?"

"Yes. To be honest, I've only ever received noble education. It would be difficult to learn new skills now. And since I can't even use magic stones... I'd like to assist you, Mr. Taro."

Honestly, that would be a great help. If I complete the Empress's request as planned, I should receive the promised title. That way, just as I'd originally intended, I'd have my own territory and subjects.

I could make Linna and the others my subjects, securing their status within the empire. But having status alone wouldn't guarantee their survival.

I couldn't manage a territory myself, after all. Linna's offer is exactly what I've been hoping for.

But...

Linna, I cannot repay you for those feelings.