“Um… father. What did you just say…?”
In the study at the second floor of the Manor, there was the feeling of discomfort loitering around while already in the middle of the summer. It’s not that the climate was at fault, and it's already late at night. Yet, I was sweating cold sweats.
“As I said earlier. Charlotte, my daughter… you are to leave the house to train under the guidance of my old friend at a neighboring town. The distance is around a week away so pack your belonging for the departure is… tomorrow.”
“So suddenly!? Why!? I don’t think I have cleared your training, right, father!?”
“The way you are now you won’t lose to bandits or common demi-humans, Charl.”
Even mother as well!? I was flabbergasted by the announcement after dinner and despite everyone gathering together in the study, I was the only who’s not calm for the least bit! I feel betrayed! Did I do wrong?! Was I behaving too rebellious to my parents!?
As frustrated as I was, father then cast his gaze to Fei. “And you too, brat. You are going to accompany my daughter. This mission requires protection and you have no reason to back down right?”
“……for how long do I have to work as a guard?” He asked.
“The fastest is probably until Charlotte reached 10 years old. But in worse case, maybe you will have to stay together for more.”
……I glanced at Fei. The black haired boy was showing disdain and he was really irritated to the point of looking like Ni’o. He’s scary!!
“Why do I have to stick with her? It’s not my obligation.”
“Because it’ll be suspicious for an entire noble family venturing to other town. Don’t you even know our political standing, ignorant brat?”
“Yeah, yeah. Whatever you say… geezer.”
Uwaaa… he’s annoying. He even frowning like an old man and he threw a tantrum as well. Father was nearly having a Burst Rage Mode but mother suddenly cut in.
“I’m sorry, Fei. I know that you are in the end, an Adventurer. Of course we are not forcing you to accept this mission. But… do you mind taking care of my daughter for a while longer…?”
“Got it. I shall fulfill your wish, milady.”
“Fast!! Why do you swing your tail so easily when confronted by mother!? And don’t I have any saying in this matter!?”
“ “ “ “Nope. I’m certain you have no saying in this matter.” ” ” ”
At that time, I finally realized that there’s no one that I could seriously consider as my ally in this world.
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And so a day passed in a blink of an eye. More or less, after countless failures to convince my parents, I gave up and obeyed their order. Honestly, I hate this kind of sudden plan. It’s as if I was led into a trap set by a hunter...
"No, wait! So the feast yesterday was the farewell banquet!?"
How could I not notice!? People always partied and drinking if there's a big event! Be it entering school, graduating from it, working or even wedding event! When suddenly tasked to buy food ingredients in a large amount... That should have hinted the Flag yet I failed to notice it! I'M SUCH AN IIIIIIDDDIIIIIOOOOOOTTTTT!!
"Ugh... Forget it," I said. Standing up after I fell to all fours, lamenting like a despairing teacher again. "It already happened so I have to live it through… I have no choice..."
I prepared a case filled with sets of clothing, daily necessities and also first aid kits. I also brought my medicines with me and the amount was plenty to last for a month. I too was given with a recipe so if the supply diminished, I could always go to the herb dealer to buy the necessary ingredients for it. After waking up and bathing in cold water, I dressed myself and stood in front of the mirror in my room.
Wearing a sleeveless tunic and a shortened knee-length skirts, my appearance seemed like a village girl, but… The sheathed sabre hanging at my waist gave me a different kind of impression. Somehow, it looked like I was cosplaying. After all, my current style of clothing probably reached the borderline of modesty in medieval era if not crossing it.
Still, I couldn’t help it! My fighting style relied on mobility so I couldn’t equip heavy armors and protectors which might hinder my movement. Also… father said the monsters around here could never be strong enough for a practitioner of Draconic Sword Style to have a trouble with. Excepting the rare monsters such as Dark Hunter or Dire Wolves, of course.
“Well, not like those kinds would go out to flood into the street.” I murmured to myself.
After bidding farewell to my family and Melinda, the carriage stationed at the midway between the Manor and the village was waiting for us, its last passengers and once we got in the travel started.
“Ooohhh…… the village is disappearing very fast. So Sleipnirs can run so fast despite having six legs.”
While it’s true that there were horses in this world, it seemed that the most common one were six-legged one originating from norse mythology. I wasn’t sure if Freyja-sama had a hand in this matter. Unfortunately, I knew next to nothing when it came to super high-level fantasy knowledge. I just couldn’t get how mages could summarize a grimoire’s content in one breathe too.
Even more, there’s a huge problem here.
“Uuuggghhh…… I feel sick.” A certain idiot groaned.
“……Then lie down and sleep already, you dumbass. Who told you to stay awake and on guard like that?”
I asked the boy with pale complexion. Fei was really unwell! Who knew the strongest person in this carriage could be ridden with motion sickness. He’s a kid in a very odd part that I instantaneously sighed. It would make me as the bad guy if I teased him in his current state.
“Shut… it. I don't like traveling with carriage.”
“Then get used to it. You know that there are other things that can rock around like this. For example, a ship.”
“……geh… just hearing it already makes me want to vomit…”
“Haa…… don’t do it in front of me and the other. Now go to sleep already!!”
I ordered the kid and he still groaned in pains. Really, just how bothersome he could be and it’s always in worst timing that he would be so very unreliable.
“Heya kids! Still staring at the expanse of the outside world??”
Hmm…? From the front seat came a young man with green tunic and leather boots. His unkempt light green hair and his spirited expression could only mean one thing when combined with an instrument that is similar to stringed guitar… or maybe a harp? Whatever it is, it’s certain that this guy is a traveling minstrel. Or a bard.
“Yah! The name’s Franz and I am a Minstrel searching for romances and musical tales!!”
“I can clearly see that. So… Mister Franz? What do you need from us……?”
“No no no! Don’t bother with formality! Even if we’re separated by ten years or so but drop the etiquette when in a foreign land!! That is conspicuous!”
Whoa, to think I would be told that by someone other than Fei who is sleeping like log over there…… Is this guy a genius? I too wanted to never attract various OP beings and troubles in my second life. In a broad sense of course.
“Then Franz, do you have an interesting music to perform? I think I'm getting bored with seeing the same scenery.”
“Aye, a beautiful lady’s boredom is not to be underestimated. Then shall I play a tale in a song to entertain your parched heart?”
Wuu…. This guy can change his dialect THAT swiftly and he did it without any difficulty?
As expected of a minstrel, the predecessor of history weaver in the most classical and romantic way. Maybe I should learn a few things from him… I can at least keep myself up whenever I’m bored.
But first, I allowed Franz to sit down near us and he began to unravel his skill. He took out the stringed instrument and began to play. I heard a serene melody and yet I noticed that it is also light and whimsical. As if the carriage’s wheels and the Sleipnirs’ footsteps mixed in to become one miniaturized band of performers.
It started with melody, then a ballad. Franz smiled while whistling to add for more depth into the music, the strings’ movements giving my ears and heart unexplained shivers.
I closed my eyes, relaxing my body as I listened to the easygoing music. It’s one that could be considered as the perfect partner when traveling, and I listened to it wholeheartedly.
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Once night fell, I hid myself from the illuminating moonlight. It was a crowded night where every three hours there would be a monster roaming to the resting carriage.
Of course, once that happened Fei (who has just recovered by sleeping) ordered me to hide and never to leave until everything’s over. Yet, when doing that, I could hear chaos and bloodcurdling screeches.
Seriously, why do I have to hear monsters being slain ruthlessly like being stabbed, slashed or burned with magic? It even gave me a shudder and once the battle ended—
“Finally done. Really, it’s hard to keep up with so many people fighting.”
“Ooohh…? Fei, you’ve return—eek!? What’s with those blood!?”
“Nothing? Just got some unfortunate fools slain and the blood splattered on me.”
“You, you idiot! What if there’s an open wound!? Come here for a minute!!”
I commanded him and my Royal Guard conceded after I pestered him by threatening him in some ways, including by me trying to step out of the darkness. I used magic to light up the interior of the carriage and though it was dim, I could still define all shapes. I had Fei to sit down cross-legged in front of me first and I took out a slightly wet clean cloth and medical kits.
“Geez, you burdened yourself too much. Why are you so persistent when fighting?” I commented as I wiped the blood from his face. The boy groaned and he somehow tensed up. I don’t really think that is so but stop jerking around like that.
“It’s none of your business whether I live or die right—“
“It does, you stupid idiot!”
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I knocked his forehead with my knuckle and Fei faltered for a bit. Seriously, this guy is always doing as he pleases that I can’t stop getting worried!
“Listen up. You must take care of yourself more preciously. You only have one life to live for in this world, Fei. Do you get it?”
“……I don’t want to be told that by someone who literally picked a fight without proper reasons.”
“Shut it. I’m different than you. At least my experience with violence and the likes are higher than you could have imagined.”
I wrapped the bandage around his arm. Since there was a long slash wound it needed a minute long healing spell to stop the bleeding but it wasn't enough to close the wound. I had a hard time because Fei couldn’t stay put, but once he heard my words his eyes widened. Huh? Why are you surprised?
“….you……”
“What? Are you taking pity on me? Mind yourself a bit more.”
After all, I’m a man. Well, formerly but still, my mentality is that of true man. I don’t pity myself for getting beaten up and instead, I’m more than happy to learn new things so that I won’t repeat the same mistake again. Of course, it’s all because I had a terrible little sister that I wanted to protect and not that I ever regretted for having such younger sibling.
…Now… done! The wounds are treated with healing salves and with this you’re as good as new! I raised a knuckle and knocked at Fei’s chest for once. Telling him my last words for tonight.
“You’re my guard. So even if you think I’m bothersome, you’re still my retainer. Don’t you dare to die before I do.”
“……………”
The black haired, grey eyed human boy could only stay silent. Whether he took my words at heart or simply confused, I didn’t really care. I’m just worried if there’s someone close to me being hurt. Even if that person himself is my enemy and that is final.
"...Then. Do you think you can do it too?" Fei asked.
...What did he mean? I tilted my head and the boy spoke further.
"Do you think you can survive? You don't even have a real dream right?"
...Huh? What... what did he say...? I blinked a few times yet Fei pressed on. With sharp gaze enough to petrify me completely, he said.
"Can you do it? Even if you have to choose a cruel decision... Can you still say all that?"
His words were full of venom. I didn't understand why he spouted such things, but... An uncomfortable thump of my heart caused me to shudder. As if ice was stuck on my shoulders and at my back. It was cold... So cold it's terrifying.
Why? Why why why? Why are you saying that all...? Why are you...
"Charlotte Augmund... Tell me. Can you steal a life to save another life? Do you think you can kill someone for your survival?"
To Fei’s question… I could not even bring myself to open my mouth. My body shivered out of control and dread filled my mind as my eyes gazed at the piercing grey pupils. Darkness was in there. Darkness so deep it felt like it intended to devour me whole. Yet, I couldn't do anything to deny it.
I couldn't... even answer his question. And my heart ached as if it was mauled in the most violent manner due to it.
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-Fei’s POV-
……tonight is really full of surprises. I have experienced so many battles and so many conflicts but in my life, I scarcely ever encountered someone so kind that they would worry about my well-being. Again.
The night grew old. As usual, I remained awake for the sake of my mission as a guard. However, it seemed someone else was also awake other than the rotating scout from the Adventurer party. It was the Minstrel, surprisingly. And he was near me who was standing right outside the Caravan’s entrance.
“Don’t you have a good partner there, young man? It’s nice to have such a reliable companion right?”
…what is this guy saying? I don’t really get it and do I even need to say he’s annoying? He was oddly talkative and he interacted with everyone beyond the norms. Not minding his own business, and he liked to smile so much I believe he’s just putting up an act.
“Well, it’s good to be young. You can make mistakes, learn from them and grow up as reliable adults unlike the present ones. Especially those who are humans.”
“……what do you mean by that?”
The Minstrel shrugged. With a mug brimming with hot drink in his hand, he rested his back at the Caravan and gazed at the starry sky above. A few times he sipped the alcoholic water and he heaved a tired sigh.
“Life is hard, but do not forget what has supported you to reach this point. I say, young man, do you have any interest in love?”
“Now you are making less sense. Just what are you implying?”
Franz said “It’s very simple. In fact, you should have known the answer when you asked yourself.” with a wry smile. He continued by sipping the rum and he glanced at me.
His gaze was uncomfortable. It was as if he was comparing me with someone else and I didn’t like being compared. It’s very annoying to the point of vexing. He was similar to them.
“Young man. Why are you fighting?”
“……………”
For a moment, my train of thought halted. It wasn’t that I didn’t catch his words. I simply could never understand his point. Why would he, a Minstrel who rarely met battles, asked me such question? I looked at him but the Minstrel was putting that ‘fake smile’ and gentle face it was hard to see him in the eyes. Out of disgust, of course.
“…I fight… for myself. What else is there to it?” I questioned back at him, this time with a glare.
However, the man simply smiled and he looked down. His profile was calming and he was chuckling as if he asked something obvious.
“No, nothing. That’s a fine reason. Without yourself, then you can’t do anything right and it’s even harder to do something for someone if you can’t even stand on your own toes.”
Still—the Minstrel added. His translucent gaze was filled with the sea of the stars above. Under the night sky where his pupils always gazed at the distance. Seemingly so lonely and sad.
“There’s no one that can stand tall by himself forever. At some point, there will always be someone to extend their hand to you even if you’re against it so much.”
“……………”
“Young man, that girl cherishes you. Very much, more than she herself could ever imagine. Protect her well, for she might be the only person that can ease your sufferings.”
Franz said his parts. Then slowly but surely, he waved a hand saying he intended to sleep. Unlike the men, the women were given the privileges to sleep in the carriage. Still though, the Minstrel frivolously left and disappeared at the other side of the carriage.
Meanwhile, I was staring at the night sky. His words sinking deep into my mind and I felt like a lump of object stuck at my throat. I just couldn’t deny his words. I don’t think I could get this matter off my head so soon, but there was still one thing that bothered me.
“……Cherishes… me. What good is there to it?”
The night sky did not give me an answer. And the cold darkness was like a hazy dream that soon wafted off. Wiped away by time. Dissolving away like wind as remembrance became vivid recollection.
That girl punched me right after ordering me to go with her. Then she dragged me into a river only for me to nurse her around, and then I had to fight nasty monsters.
Then, I became her guard involuntarily. I was forced to serve a noble which was no doubt the last thing I wanted in my life. Yet, I was never treated as an object. Instead, the girl simply thought of me as some kind of rival… She hated me becoming stronger, and then decided to chase after me without my consent.
Who am I to her? Even though I told her clearly she will regret her choice to chase after me, why me? Why is she seeing me as someone worthy enough to be challenged? Why is she, despite her reluctance, still delving into this world full of conflicts? Once again, no answer was given to me as I watched the falling stars in the heavens above.
...It's impossible for her to become like me. I'm different than everyone. I'm not like her. This body of mine, and this wretched soul... I hate it. I hate myself for being what I am. I don't want people to look at me like they did in the past, and so I fled from that place.
And yet, what I did brought death to all who saw me as who I am. All because of me. All because of me being different than them, death dragged them away from my sides. That's why I decided to not involve myself with others. I don't want to let more to suffer the same fate as they did.
I gazed up, and I told myself.
The world is so vast. The sky is so wide. In this world, I do not have what it takes to carve my Proof of Existence. Here, in this world. With this accursed body and blood inherited from a King who desired nothing but tools…… and I, who am a failure of everyone born before and after me, cannot expect anything except
And yet—
“……I don’t get it. Why would you smile at me? Why would you pick up the sword to chase after my back? Why… am I so happy to see you looking at me?”
Hundreds of memories became ripples of water inside me. The times I spent with her was nonetheless, amounted to a grain of sand in my prophesied long life. The girl I protected. The girl I observed. The girl who is always worried about someone else no matter what kind of person they are.
The moment her smile etched deep into my mind, I could not control this rapidly beating heart. This heart of mine which denied the entirety of humanity so that I may live as myself for another day...
"...there's no way... right...?"