10
◈ Chapter 57 - 10-Before the Storm
What? Why is that bitch crawling into Stemwind now?
In a visit that was difficult to understand, I headed to the reception room as soon as I heard the news from the maid.
Sitting there was a young woman who must have been in her 30s.
Looking at her neatly braided auburn hair, her fair skin with a red tinge, and her thin neckline, it would not occur to me that she was the second most powerful swordsman in the Oxburg Empire.
However, the look in her eyes was that of a strong woman who knew no defeat.
I said, giving her a shake.
"Sir Lunea Horse. It's been 15 days. I don't see a face that I'm always happy to see."
"Bjorn Jevicz. They say she was abused by demonic cultists, but judging by her appearance, it doesn't seem like that."
"How about putting on a sutra? I'm a decent person now."
"I guess the North has usurped knighthood, right? I don't know the culture of barbarians."
After shaking hands, Runea sat in the seat that was not appropriate for a VIP visiting the De Jevietz family and flirted with her.
She was still an irritating woman with a cocky way of speaking.
But that doesn't work for me either.
I know your secret.
"You're as good as you can use your tongue. I guess that's how your skills improve when you secretly lick His Majesty's underwear."
After hearing my words, Runea looked at me blankly for a while, as if she had been hit on the head with her hammer.
A long time passed before her pupils dilated, her face turned red, and her tears welled up.
The armrests of the chair she was sitting on could not overcome her grip and she screamed.
She said, barely able to keep her voice from crying.
"Something to do came to mind, John. Hell, where are you going?"
"Senior Knight Sir Sentle is going to Handar Castle first for business reasons."
"I see. I have urgent business to attend to, so I'll get up first. And I don't know what you heard from Helga, but that's not true."
"Huh? Hey! Where are you going, you crazy Octantium panty thief! If you kill Helga now, the imperial family will declare war on the North!"
I grabbed hold of her as it seemed as if Handar would run to her castle, kick down her castle gate, and slaughter her Helga at any moment.
"You're a panty thief... You're saying something incomprehensible... Me? What kind of insulting language is that to me, the vice-captain of the Knights of the Holy Cross? If you say something like that one more time, ..."
"What, are you going to throw your gloves at my face? Why would I duel with a panty thief? What will I do with my honor for dueling with you like that!"
"Yes! I made a mistake out of love for Your Majesty! Everyone makes mistakes like that when they're young, right?! Rather, isn't this a beautiful story that gives a glimpse of my sincere loyalty to Your Majesty!"
"How beautiful is the story of sticking your nose in underwear, you psychopath!"
You should be thankful that you are a woman.
If the emperor were a woman and you were a man, you would have been the vice-captain of the Knights of the Holy Cross and your head would have been hung in the square.
But no matter what I said, Runea's eyes were no longer normal.
It was the first time she realized that a person's eyes could swirl.
Why on earth does this bitch pick a fight with someone when she has no defense whatsoever?
I stopped teasing Helga because I was worried that if I teased her further, her head might actually fall off.
It took a while before she calmed down, and after that, I had to listen to her lame excuses again for a long time.
"...So, I'll say it again, it's different from reality. Lord Sentle exaggerated it for the sake of laughter..."
"Do you know how many times I've said that?! What the hell are you doing?!"
Finally, when I got tired of the endless excuses and screamed, Lunea cleared her throat and got to the point.
"Hmm, the reason I came to Stemwind is to give you the dungeon bounty."
Runea placed a sack hanging from her waist on the table.
The small sack was filled with Libra gold coins.
After fiddling around, I found out that it was about 200 Libra.
It was not a large amount, but it was also not a small amount that a merchant who was doing business in a good place and making a lot of money in the neighborhood could earn as net profit after working hard for a few months.
At her market price, I asked her, feeling moderately satisfied with the money I had left over after two or three horses.
"The vice-captain of the Knights of the Holy Cross personally came to visit for that very reason?"
"Since there were mistakes on our part, we decided it was right for someone in charge to come."
"If you keep doing that, won't I think you're a liar? If you keep doing that, I'll have no choice but to believe what Helga says."
Lunea let out a sigh and spoke about her true purpose.
"...His Majesty also asked me to look into the situation in Stemwind. Starting from whether Count Haenrel is really a demonic cultist, whether war is really likely to break out, and what the saint's condition is in that situation."
"I am deeply moved by your Majesty's sincere concern for the North. It would be better if you were gracious and revoked the order to return the wizard."
As soon as Aidan received the title of marquis, the emperor ordered the magicians belonging to the magic brigade in the north to return to the central region.
The horse is a wizard belonging to the 6th Circle or higher magic brigade, and in fact, all wizards in the north have been ordered to come down to the central area.
Even though I knew that I, a member of the imperial family, had taken control of the North, I was unable to lay a spoon on it, so my stomach must have been twisted.
Thanks to Margaery's advice in advance, they was able to avoid paralyzing the city by hastily signing lifetime contracts with several wizards below the 5th circle, but there was no magical power that could be used in the war against Haenrel.
What would you do if you argued with Runea?
I suddenly grabbed the back of her neck and asked her opinion.
"So, what do you think? Do you think I'm framing Haenrel's family?"
"There is an old saying among the Knights of the Holy Cross. Don't trust the words of the Knights of the Lighthouse of Humanity."
Runea expressed her gratitude, saying that today she realized for herself the wisdom of the ancestors of the Knights of the Holy Cross.
"But there is no way the saint would tell a lie. Although our meeting was brief, he was not someone who would listen to you forcing him to do something. It is probably true that Count Haenrel is a demon cultist."
Lunea said that the problem is what comes next and tried her luck.
"Your Majesty is intelligent and clear-thinking, but when it comes to demons, you take it lightly without knowing why. You don't even take seriously the story that Count Haenrel is a heretic."
"Could it be that His Majesty is also an existentialist?"
"Your Majesty is not denying the existence of the devil. However, you said it as if you were wondering what a being from an old book could do in an era where the iron horse is running."
Judging from her words, the Emperor seems to regard the Demon King Moloch as nothing more than an intelligent ancient monster.
That is a troubling problem.
So, at this desperate moment when the temperature on the continent is dropping, manpower is being wasted on useless territorial wars.
In the first half of Esteria, the price was paid by having the capital robbed and wandering the streets, but that is not possible here.
"But this is unexpected. I thought you would blindly follow His Majesty's orders without any consideration or consideration."
"I am Your Majesty's sword, but at the same time, I am in a cheeky position to help Your Majesty take the right path. The court does not need a parrot that only shouts after Your Majesty's words."
"That's a great mindset for a subject, but what are you going to do by coming all the way to Stemwind?"
Runea said, clasping her hands as if she was going to talk about something really important from now on.
"His Majesty ordered that if the northern part of the country is about to be engulfed in fire, we must bring a saint, even if by force."
"We have to fight the devils, but you're going to kidnap the saint? If we bring back the wizard and take the saint with us, that means we'll be handing over the North to the devils!"
"I am a person who follows Your Majesty's orders. If Your Majesty so orders, I am merely a being who ensures that His will is carried out in the world."
In short, the emperor regards the saint not as a counterpart to the devil but as a piece of political propaganda.
The cross-dressing emperor, you fucking troller.
I can't help you, but what if I end up pooping on the North?
"But the judgment on the spot is entirely up to me. Personally, I think it would be difficult to sneak the Saint out of Stemwind. The Saint wouldn't want that either."
If I try to kidnap you twice, I won't be able to handle the saint's wrath.
I focused on what Runea was saying to find out what she wanted to say.
"It's a pain in the ass. But we can't just leave the saint alone in the dangerous north where war will break out in the future. Therefore, I would like to make a proposal to you."
"What offer?"
"I will personally guard the saint until the war with Haenrel ends."
At Runea's suggestion, I slapped my forehead and spoke like someone who has achieved great enlightenment.
"The build-up to the kidnapping was fucking long, wasn't it?"
"What?"
"Hey! Would you entrust the kidnapping target to someone with a record of kidnapping?! Do I look that funny?!"
"Well, that is!"
"He's stealing panties and trying to kidnap saints, and he's very good at it! How can a criminal like this be a Knight of the Holy Cross? Ugh, I'm an idiot for listening seriously! Get out, you bastard!"
"Wait! Think again! I'm not really trying to force you this time. I'm trying to protect the saint!"
Just before calling the Knights of the Human Lighthouse outside and banning them from ever setting foot on the land of Stemwind again, Runea shouted in a desperate voice.
"If I protect the saint, it will be beneficial for you as well! If the vice-captain of the Knights of the Holy Cross is on your side, no one will think that you have framed Count Haenrel! Besides, if the saint is attacked by someone, I will "I'll take care of it, but aren't you stupid to refuse?!"
"So, what benefit do you have for doing something like that? What kind of volunteer work have you done? It's clear that your intentions are impure, so how can I trust you!"
I should add one more thing to the adage of the Lighthouse of Humanity.
If this is what the Knights of the Knights of the Holy Cross say, even if it is written in the Bible, you should first be suspicious.
"The Vice-Captain of the Knights of the Holy Cross said he would cooperate with the emergence of the Demon Cult. Do you think it would make sense for the Commander of the Human Lighthouse, which was created to fight the devil, to stop that? I make a choice for all of humanity rather than my personal feelings or His Majesty's orders. I did it!"
I shouted, moved by her words, filled with love for humanity.
"Stop talking bullshit and get the hell out of here!"
◈ Chapter 58 - 10-Before the Storm
*
It was three days later that a reply came from Count Haenrel.
That day, when ash fell so heavily that the world was filled with gray even in the middle of the day, at the southern gate of Stemwind, the knight Sedalia of the House of Haenrel raised his voice and said he was looking for me.
Holding one of her severed heads.
"Lord of Stemwind, the usurper Bjorn, listen! You deceived and intimidated Lady Eileen de Jeevitz, drove out His Excellency, and robbed the North through cunning! This is a tragedy for the North, and by extension the Oxburg Empire. "Therefore, the Haenrell family boldly pronounces a sentence on the charlatan Bjorn! We will raise our swords to drive you from power and save His Excellency, Marquis Aidan de Jeevitz, from his wicked clutches!"
The head held in the knight's hand was a vassal of the De Jeevitz family who had gone to Haenlelle to deliver a letter.
The Knight of Sedalia threw her head at me, who was standing on the castle wall, and shouted at her.
Her head couldn't fly all the way to where I was, so it fell on the road and was crushed.
Soon, the head of Knight Sedalia also met a similar ending at the hands of the Knight of the Lighthouse of Humanity.
Now, there is no way that one article can change the situation just by making a fuss.
Moreover, regardless of whether it is East or West, killing the Shinigami means seeing the end.
It was the same in this other world.
In effect, the Haenrel family declared war.
Without wasting time, we decided to leave the battlefield and reach a conclusion.
Even if you go all the way, you just have to go to the island, and if you kill me, you can take over the North.
Simultaneously with the knight's declaration of war, the Northern Alliance was created to purge the Haenrel family.
1,700 out of a total of 1,989 knights of the Human Lighthouse in Stemwind, and 2,000 out of a total of 2,437 knights of the Human Lighthouse that are not here but guard Handar Castle.
1,500 knights of the Red Basilisk Knights, affiliated with the Count Yakhok family.
1,000 knights of the Order of Obel, affiliated with the Count Sorang family.
560 knights of the Passeran Knights, affiliated with the Viscount Braton family.
440 knights of the Blood Knights of Cohoc, affiliated with the Viscount Polestar family.
...
Of the 7,000 Northern Alliance troops comprised only of formal knights, 5,000 filled the plains in front of Stemwind.
Various flags symbolizing the Knights' Order pierced the sky.
Among them, the one that stood tallest in front was a flag with a turquoise rose pattern symbolizing the Haenrel family.
Eileen and Aidan were sitting on a platform slightly higher than the plain.
Aside from his thoughts, Eileen was obediently following his words.
No, it would be more accurate to say that he had lost his will to the point where he no longer had the will to rebel.
Of course, taking Aidan hostage would have been effective, but she seemed to have been greatly shocked by the fact that her father was a demon cultist.
Ever since her Aidan became her marquess, she had been living day after day as she was dragged along, with empty eyes that seemed to have lost everything.
That's what I wanted Eileen to do, so I was perfectly happy with it.
As I went up to the stage, Aidan gave me a curved wave sword.
It was a traditional northern weapon that symbolized military power, like the Pasges or Buwol.
The ancestor of the De Jeevitz family raised the sword that was said to have been bent while fighting the Great Evil of Creation and shouted at the knights.
"Here, inspired by Lady Eileen de Jeevitz's noble will, the knights of the North have gathered to punish the wicked demon cultists! To purge Count Haenrell, who betrayed humanity and sold his soul to achieve great heights! To give it back to your wife!"
My voice filled the plains with mana.
"Knights, the first and budding children of the North! The fateful hour has descended on the North. Today we sortie towards Abamis! Let us show the united power of the North to Count Haenrel and the heretics who dared to corrupt the North! "
"Waaaaah!"
Shouts erupted and flags waved.
The swords in their scabbards could not hold back and revealed themselves, and the 5,000 horses, startled by the commotion, each cried like a band on the plains.
The Northern Alliance will go to Handar Castle to join the remaining troops, recruit mercenaries, and advance to Haenrell.
To Abamis, the port city where the Haenrel family's headquarters is located.
A long procession continued towards Handar Castle for a while.
Long queues naturally required long travel times.
Even if the combat troops are all knights, even the supply personnel and servants who look after them cannot be knights.
Therefore, Union troops had to camp more often than if they traveled individually.
"I miss the carriage, I miss it."
When I was a young master, I enjoyed traveling by horse-drawn carriage, but my status as a commander bothered me.
Is there an army where the commander rides in a carriage?
I handed over everything to Amber, but I also had to command troops in Central America.
So I was exhausted from the first day.
[But the barracks are nice, right? I can't believe I'm using such a great barracks by myself.]
Jin, who had reacted indifferently to the doll, calling it a useless meddling, seemed to have taken a liking to it and now toddled around on the exhibition status board, nestling in the doll himself.
At first, it felt awkward, but soon the gait became as natural as a living creature.
She looked so cute that even Mion, who was still serving me disguised as her maid, couldn't take her eyes off her.
I sat down on the chair and spoke to Jin.
"There's no need for a barracks like this. It's just big. I prefer narrow, damp places."
[It's gloomy. You will be the only man who likes that kind of thing.]
"Huh? What do you mean? All men like it when it's narrow and humid?"
Jin tilted his head at my words, then realized what I meant and distorted the doll's face.
My tongue was on fire as she laughed as she flicked her hand.
[Have you got a disease that will kill you if you don't sexually harass even one day?!]
If there's one good thing about having Jin inhabit her doll, it's that she can identify her emotions more easily.
Before, I was able to roughly tell by the direction of the flames or the feeling of them rising, but it wasn't as easy to tell as the doll's expression made clear.
At that time, Ember, who had become a member of the operations staff directly under the Commander of the Human Lightship Corps, and her adjutant Barton entered the barracks.
I called, but it arrived much earlier than the promised time.
Amber ran straight to me and poured out the words she had been holding back.
"I will tell you now, Bjorn, that I am impressed by your work at Stem Wind. If Bjorn had killed her brother and become heir, I would have doubted your oath from the prison."
What, why is he like this all of a sudden?
I put a question mark on her face and asked her back.
"Didn't you say before that we had to assassinate Aidan?"
"You heard wrong."
"It's a lie. I heard it clearly too."
In response to Barton's testimony, Amber changed her words as quickly as she flipped her palm.
"It was a joke."
"I remember you holding your tongue when I rejected your offer."
"I heard that clearly too."
"Seeing as everyone remembers the details, I guess my joke was quite funny."
I looked at Amber with cold eyes and said,
"Even though it would be easier for you to get your revenge if I were to become your successor?"
"Do you really think that on that day, I swore allegiance to Björn just for revenge? My heart was moved by the future presented to me while persuading me. If Björn had not said those words, I would not have sworn allegiance. It wouldn't have happened."
"Besides, the look in your eyes in prison was like that of a vengeful spirit."
"My top priority is my revenge. But it is true that I doubted whether the man who betrayed his words to me would help me get revenge. I am so glad that my suspicions were wrong."
"Thank you for your words, but what does our operational staff want to say by making such a long-winded comment?"
At the sudden serious confession, I furrowed my brows and asked Amber.
"I am a disloyal knight, and my suspicions are rising again. Why on earth is Lord Runea Van Hoss here? Did she have a secret pact with the imperial family?"
Oh, what was that?
Since he was acting differently than usual, I was nervous that he might say something serious, but it wasn't a big deal.
Ember seemed to feel regretful that she had not been notified of Lunea's joining in advance.
Moreover, since they didn't tell me why something like that happened, they must have been worried that I was planning something else behind their backs.
For example, a plan such as using the power of the imperial family to completely push out Haenrell.
Since the vice-captain of the knights under the Emperor was by my side, I could not dismiss the suspicion as an excessive delusion.
I joked with a smile on my face as if to reassure him.
"I already knew you were disloyal. I can tell just by looking at the way you speak, but there is no need to confess."
"Isn't it a crime to say that the Human Lightship Commander's clock doesn't suit him? It's not my fault that Bjorn is young and the size doesn't fit him."
Amber added, saying that the little child was cold and seemed to be wrapped in a blanket.
Disloyal and disloyal.
I answered this arrogant knight's question with the intention of doing my duty as a lord.
What a great leader this is.
"You can think of Runea as a kind of watchdog for the war that will take place in the north with the Haenrel family. She is a knight directly under the Holy See, even if only in name, so if she sees that Haenrel is a demon cultist, she will testify to the legitimacy of the De Jeevitz family. However, direct combat There will be no participation in it."
"Isn't that the same as giving power to the De Jeevitz family? The imperial family wouldn't just give it to them."
"It is not the imperial family's judgment. It is Runea's arbitrary judgment. Her real goal is to protect the saint. It is a self-evident fact that the Haenrel family will target the saint, and if the saint is injured or dies, it will be a great loss to the empire. "Perhaps he will use this opportunity to change the saint's mind."
"Why did you accept such an offer? If Lord Van Hoss kidnaps the saint like last time to protect him..."
"That won't happen."
Lunea is a person with extraordinary intelligence and skill.
She must have thought this as soon as it was revealed that the Haenrel family was a demon cult.
If one of the influential families in the north was a demonic cult, there could be heretics in the central region as well.
It is unknown how far the devil has reached in the past 12 years since the sword saint, Lord Landeros, lost his saintly powers.
Therefore, you cannot take a saint without permission until you are sure of his safety.
It seems that he thought it would be safer for now to protect the saint in the north, where all the devil cults had been wiped out.
She found her own compromise between the emperor's orders and the safety of her empire.
I didn't like having her next to Mion, but looking at her appearance, I thought she would go somewhere else if I refused, so I had no choice but to keep her by her side.
I felt comfortable thinking of it as a strategic partnership.
Mion still seemed uncomfortable with Runea.
'Stand, saint! Sorry. I had no idea she was a woman...'
She, through no fault of her own, struck a chord with Mion as soon as they met again.
That day was the first time I saw Mion's cold gaze.
It will take more time to improve relations.
In this situation, if she tried to kidnap her, as soon as Mion lifted her holy sword, he would cut off her head first.
Moreover, I made a promise with Runea.
If she tries to kidnap again, the entire Oxburg Empire will know about her misdeeds.
"More than that, Operation Chief. What do you think the current situation is? I called you here to report on it."
◈ Chapter 59 - 10-Before the Storm
As I saw the nobles entering the barracks one after another, I left the proceedings to Ember.
At that moment, all the playfulness disappeared from Amber's face.
Like a brave, veteran general, she pointed to the operation board and spoke.
"Count Haenrel has been playing along with the plan the Commander has laid out so far."
According to the information obtained by Ember, Count Haenrel worked hard to recruit mercenaries after declaring war.
However, the rumor that he was a demon cultist had already spread, so no matter how rich the Haenrel family was, no mercenary leader approached him.
Wizards are also in a situation where their seeds have dried up in the north due to His Majesty's order to return.
Therefore, Count Haenrel had to fight only as a knight of his family.
"The total number of Knights of Sedalia is 4,800. Therefore, Count Haenrel is requesting support from those around him, but the nobleman who responded is said to be one of his in-laws, the Viscount. Therefore, the number of troops he can operate is only 5,500 knights. "
As expected, declaring war in Eileen's name was very effective.
If Count Haenrel is a devil, I would avoid it because I would be greatly harmed if I helped him. Even if Count Haenrel is not a devil, I would not want to get involved in the family's civil war.
In the end, no matter how much he was a noble who benefited from the Haenrel family, he had no choice but to wait and see.
Even the nobles who have fiefdoms on the road to Abamis will open their doors to let the Northern Alliance pass through like it's no one else's business.
"On the other hand, what is our situation?"
Count Yakhok asked Ember, and Ember told him a specific number.
"As you know, the Northern Allied Forces consist of 7,000 knights. In addition, they have secured sufficient funds to operate 25,000 mercenaries for 3 years. Lord Sentle is currently negotiating with freelancers at Handar Castle on this issue. There is."
In fact, it was possible to mobilize more troops if only funds were considered.
However, large mercenary leaders had already signed a contract with the emperor and were making money in the war against the Kingdom of Junta.
Because there was not money but people, the number of mercenaries was limited to 25,000.
"A total of 32,000 troops will surround Abamis. The magic ships of the Human Lighthouse in Lighthouse Village will also come down and surround the port. The only thing Count Haenrel can do is lock himself in Abamis and die. Or else. "Either he will jump out and commit suicide before he dies. Either way, the ending is decided."
Abamis is not a self-sufficient castle.
If you block supplies and leave them alone, you will eventually have no choice but to raise a white flag on your own.
Even if that were not the case, once the fatigue of the Haenrel knights accumulates, the siege will be easy.
Ultimately, it's up to us to set the timing.
In addition, if you block the port with a sailboat, you will be crying within a year.
This will be a good opportunity to get the operating cost of the insanely expensive horse sailing ship.
"In the end, the war will be a slow siege. How many months will we have to endure the sea breeze in Haenrell Territory?"
Count Soran said, suppressing a yawn.
He is the trumpeter of the De Jeevitz family anyway.
It seemed like he had no interest in being a demon cultist or anything, and just wanted to survive and return to the territory.
He was a man who had a lot of money but nothing to do and his ambition was all for naught, so I envied his life.
I heard that most of the whiskey distilleries in the north are from that group. I've never had a proper conversation with them, but I feel like we get along well.
"A few months is a short period of time for a siege, but it may be resolved faster than expected. Rumors about Count Haenrel have already spread as quickly as possible. A righteous person who shares our cause may appear inside Avamis Castle. "
The moment someone secretly opens the castle gate during the night, the siege is over.
Currently, Count Haenrel's public opinion and reputation are at their worst, so if we do a little behind-the-scenes work, Ember's words have a lot of potential.
This game was very advantageous to me from the start.
Well, that's it.
I worked so hard to make the game, but no matter how good the game is, there should be some kind of compensation.
The rest of the meeting was about details such as deployment and supply of supplies when sieging Abamis.
That part is entirely up to Amber.
I was leaning on my chair and just nodding my head like a college presentation team member on a bus.
At that time, a messenger came into the barracks and announced new news.
"Commander, it is said that Count Haenrel is leading his knights from Abamis and is advancing on Handar Castle!"
"...What?"
I looked at the other people in the barracks, wondering if I was hallucinating.
Everyone received the messenger's report with expressions that were not much different from mine.
"Is Count Haenrel's suicide coming sooner than expected?"
I said it, but of course it was a joke.
No one present thought that Count Haenrel had come out of the castle to commit suicide.
Count Yakhok muttered as if it was absurd.
"They were talking about purging the usurpers, but it seems they weren't just empty-handed. I never thought they would give up the castle and come out on their own."
"There's something hidden... I can't help but think that way. First, we have to go to Handar Castle as soon as possible and figure out the situation."
Considering the situation, the Northern Allied forces were even more advantageous.
Because they want to compete in a grand sled with 5,500 people in an army of 32,000.
As Amber said, there may be a hidden card, but it is not easy to overturn anything.
We are overwhelming in terms of justification and number of troops.
If he changes the situation here, he will be considered one of the greatest commanders in the entire history of the Earth and the world.
However, the opponent is someone who is in collusion with the devil.
Since the demon cultists have eaten away at the empire, they can create variables in other directions.
First, it seemed necessary to sort out the situation at Handar Castle.
The meeting was meaningless until additional information came out at a time when the war was different from what was predicted.
When all the nobles left to focus on their own work, Barton stayed behind and spoke to me with a serious face.
"Lord Vierne, I know this is off topic, but your Excellency, are you going to leave Sir Canniel de Jeevitz alone? Anyway, the sight of him providing lodging and food with the knights..."
"Father is being punished now. And he says he wants to do that. How can I stop him? Are you going to force the Sword Master out?"
When I took over the position of commander of the Human Lighthouse Corps, there was no internal opposition.
There were also articles saying that you had to prove your loyalty to His Excellency.
It was Canniel himself who actively covered it up.
It was a title that was meant to be passed down anyway, but isn't it rather admirable that the child took it upon himself?
The knights who were angry at Kanniel's words had no choice but to calm down.
Moreover, after the launch ceremony, Kanniel was leading the life of a knight, working closely with the Human Lighthouse Corps without any special treatment.
By directly going into it, they are quelling complaints about the Stemwind incident and increasing solidarity.
He didn't expect consideration from him, but it was true that it made him feel more comfortable.
Maybe that's the life he wanted.
To live as a knight and die honorably on the battlefield.
Canniel said something like that in the nanny's story.
"I'm just saying this out of concern, so don't pay any mind to it."
Barton shyly changed the subject, as if he had said something for no reason.
"But there is something that has been bothering me since a while ago. Is that doll on the strategy board yours?"
Jin was toddling around on the operation board, but suddenly she was frozen in place by Ember who attacked her.
Barton seemed to be concerned about that.
But why on earth is Jin doing that? Can't she just come out of the doll?
He could not possibly understand God's profound thoughts.
"I got one for Mion's stomach. Who would suspect a young maid carrying a doll in her front pocket to be a saint?"
The doll was made for Jin, but since I couldn't carry it around, I was thinking of leaving it to Mion.
At the same time, you get a camouflage effect, killing two birds with one stone.
"Hmm... That's definitely true. I guess this is what you usually think about?"
"Anyone who carries such a cute doll... Heo! The doll's eyes just opened!"
Barton played with white foam at his mouth, as if he had seen a ghost.
"What is it? What's wrong with your eyes?"
"Bah, bah, the doll's eyes just turned towards me! I-I made eye contact! It's a doll possessed by an evil spirit!"
Amber sighed at Barton's words.
"Barton, don't you know who is with you right now? He's a saint, he's a saint! How could the doll that Mion is carrying be possessed by an evil spirit?"
"My, I saw it clearly with my own two eyes?! This doll's eyes are moving?!"
"What if all you do is help with the work next to me and you already see it's in vain? There's still a lot of work left to do! Let's stop talking nonsense and get to work."
"It's a ghost! It's a ghost!"
Barton pointed at the doll and shouted, and Amber looked at him with a pitiful expression and dragged him away.
Haha, is this fun? I understand why Amber is teasing Barton so much!]
I couldn't help but touch my forehead as I saw Jin laughing and doing something that even a local evil spirit wouldn't do, as if he didn't even realize that he was a god.
◈ Chapter 60 - 10-Before the Storm
*
It is said that if travelers move quickly from Stemwind to Handar Castle, it will take five and a half days.q
The Northern Allied forces took longer than that and arrived at Handar Castle in seven days.
The only additional information received during those seven days was that Count Haenrel had added regular troops, such as a security guard, increasing the number to 7,500.
At that point, I couldn't help but tilt my head.
Count Haenrel is currently in a desperate situation.
Supplementing general forces such as security forces and garrisons is important, but in order to turn the tide, he must forcibly conscript the residents of the territory under his direct control.
However, his actions were cautious, as if he was assuming what would happen after defeating the Northern Allies.
That was annoying.
If all goes as expected, the Northern Alliance and the rebels will rotate on the Plains of Leuktra in front of Handar Castle in 15 days.
The meeting that followed was all about fine-tuning the battles that would take place in the giant slalom.
If it was important, it was important, and if it was boring, it was boring.
However, this does not mean that the advance was smooth.
As this person and that person were fighting each other, incidents and accidents continued to happen every day.
Among them, the one that got on my nerves the most was Runea.
Runea was currently joining the Northern Allied Forces as an Imperial Observer.
It was natural that the legitimacy of the Northern Alliance soared simply by the fact that the vice-captain of the Knights of the Holy Cross was in the Northern Alliance.
Even the northerners, who were negative about this matter, thinking it was a power struggle between high-ranking people, believed that Count Haenrel was really a demon cultist.
However, the purpose of Lunea joining was to protect the saint.
Runea wanted to stay by Mion's side and protect him, and since Mion was disguised as my maid, Runea and I ended up hanging around together.
"How dare you entrust your chores to a saint? Don't think you can be forgiven for doing something like this. The Lord will definitely pay for this sin."
"Are you doing the same thing that was given to you by a bitch who must have toured the country to get a face stamp with a saint? Personally, I'm curious. If the words of the Bible and His Majesty's command are different, which do you follow?"
"The Lord is a person with a wide understanding. He will also understand that the affairs of royalties must follow the owner of royalties."
"Hey, you unbelieving knight bastard. Where did you get the idea to ask for understanding after committing a crime? With that kind of faith, you're so good at mentioning the Lord, are you?"
"I don't want to hear that kind of talk from the Devilbak fishermen."
"...What kind of gourd, what kind of sweet?"
It seems that the Lighthouse of Humanity is destined to never get along well with the Knights of the Holy Cross.
Whenever I saw her, I was so envious of her that I couldn't bear it.
However, her tenacity was too weak for me to tease her in the same way.
So much so that it can be called a glass cannon.
If you beat it every day, it will break.
It took time for the cooldown to run out.
In fact, Runea herself was elated with a triumphant expression, not even knowing that Ji was being considered.
Still, the reason she was able to suppress the disgust that had been coming out of her spinal cord like a spinal cord these days was because she had taken on the important task of guarding the saint.
Her situation improved as Helga gained complete control over humanity and other great powers, but she still had few people she could trust.
Meanwhile, Runea's help was like rain in a drought.
That doesn't mean you can trust her, but she wasn't a great person to take her nonsense, at least not until she eradicated her demonic cult.
Of course, that gratitude did not last long.
This is because by the time the Northern Allied Forces arrived at Handar Castle, a familiar group was coming from the central border.
"Lord Lunea Van Hoss. Who do you think these people are?"
"They are the proud Knights of the Holy Cross of the great empire. The Magic Brigade is also following behind them."
That's what I know when I see it.
Not to mention the red cross flag of the Knights of the Holy Cross, and the fact that the black bull flag symbolizing the Emperor of the Oxburg Empire can be flown on the battlefield means the appearance of the Magic Brigade, a paramilitary organization directly under that organization.
So I had no choice but to question Runea even more.
"What I'm saying is, why are they stationed right in front of the northern part of the country? It looks like they're going to attack Handar Castle! So tell me the truth!"
"...That's right. You may not believe it, but I don't know."
"Ah, I see. Our vice-captain didn't know... Did you think it would go over like that?! Do you think that makes sense?! The vice-captain of the Knights of the Holy Cross didn't know that his subordinates were moving in such a large scale?"
"I know it's hard to believe, but I was in the North following His Majesty's orders. I haven't received any word during this time. Either someone blocked the information from reaching me, or it happened somewhere higher than my line."
Runea looked confused, as if she really didn't know.
When he saw it, he felt that it wasn't a lie.
I don't know how things are going, but it will definitely not be a good direction for the North.
I quickly grabbed the reins and headed toward Handar Castle.
*
The Human Lighthouse Corps' first choice work location is Handar Castle.
Handar Castle, located at a strategic point along the border dividing the northern and central regions, has long been known for being wealthy.
The source of that wealth was clean water.
Handar Castle was located in the middle and upper reaches of the Horma River, a tributary of the Gokatan Mountains that runs inland from the Gray Mountains.
The river, which means clear and clean river in the Aryan language, has long been famous for having little ash and not getting sick when drinking it.
Advice such as the proverb 'If you go to Handar Castle, be sure to eat trout steak' was also given thanks to the clear water.
Because the water is so good, farming goes well, and people have been living together here for a long time.
When people come together, wealth is created, and wealth is created in proportion to the number of people.
Additionally, since the establishment of the Oxburg Empire, the north gained its own status and became independent, so it goes without saying that Handar Castle, located at a strategic point on the way to Stemwind, swept up a lot of goods.
In the north, Handar Castle was the second wealthiest place after Amavis, where the Haenrel family's main headquarters was located.
A significant portion of the De Jeevitz family's tax revenue came from this castle.
'I've heard of its reputation, but seeing it in person makes it even more amazing.'
Of course, it was my first time coming to Handar Castle.
I know exactly how much tax revenue Handar Castle generates through my work, but it is true that I thought how great it would be.
However, when I actually looked at it, I felt like I could understand why the Human Lighthouse was so eager to come to Handar Castle.
The walls of Handar Castle could not be clearly seen yet, but buildings were crowded around them.
However, even though it was on the outskirts of Handar Castle, it was difficult to find wooden buildings.
A three-story building made of brick, a ceiling with glass between buildings to prevent falling ash, and a road that was paved so strong that it would withstand even an iron horse passing by at any moment.
There was nothing that did not testify to the wealth of Handar Castle.
But now I was not on a good trip.
Understanding the situation was a priority.
As soon as I entered the castle, I looked for Helga.
Helga reported the situation to me, his face contemplative.
"Bjorn, we're in big trouble! The Knights of the Holy Cross and the Magic Brigade are blocking the mercenaries' entry in front of Handar Castle!"
Hearing Helga's report, I pursed my lips.
Drich von Oxburg, what on earth are you thinking?
Not only did they bring back the wizard, but they also tried to take away the saint, and now, in the face of a decisive battle with the devil cultists, they are screwing over the North like this.
No matter how blinded one is by power, this has gone far beyond the line.
"...Even if Handar Castle is blocked, this is not the only way to the north. It may take time, but it's all done once you get back."
I calmly thought of a solution.
There is no need to join at Handar Castle.
There is still enough time, so we can meet somewhere else.
So it was even more questionable.
Doing something like this will only hurt each other's feelings, and there is no benefit whatsoever.
It takes a little time and the trust of the North is greatly lost.
The emperor is not stupid enough to do something stupid like this.
If the corruption in the central part had been at this level, I would have gone down to the capital myself and taken over the empire within a year like a wholesaler.
What on earth are you aiming for, emperor?
What were you thinking when you did such a foolish thing?
At that time, while I was thinking, a knight shouted from afar.
"Yes, Commander! To the south gate of Handar Castle...!"
Perhaps because he was trying his best to quickly convey the news, the driver's words were interrupted once due to his breathing becoming uneven.
Wait a minute, Handar Castle is big, but does it make sense that the knight would be so out of breath after running through it?
Only then did I see the knight's face in detail.
That expression turned completely white, as if he had seen something he couldn't see.
At the same time, that smile at the corner of his mouth as if he was happy.
"Sword Saint Lord Landeros is coming!"
◈ Chapter 61 - 10-Before the Storm
There was no one on the continent of Esteria who did not know that name.
Commander of the Knights of the Holy Cross and the only Grand Duke of the Empire.
He was a saint even before the Oxburgh Empire was founded, and he has been a shield for humanity who has protected the Empire from the devil for 250 years since its founding.
However, more than such vain fame, what is stuck in people's minds is the nickname of Sword Saint.
The one who has reached the tip of the sword.
The strongest man in existence by force of arms.
It is the ultimate goal of the knights holding the sword, and it is an end that cannot be reached.
Paladin of Terminus, Sir Landeros Van Hoss.
The swordsman who became a great evil in the first half of Esteria and was with me came to Handar Castle.
"...Why on earth?"
Surprising.
But the question was bigger than that.
His last official appearance was 30 years ago, as far as I remember.
As usual, he does not appear until the devil invades.
This is why Runea served as the de facto leader of the Knights of the Holy Cross.
But suddenly he came to Handar Castle, leading the Knights of the Holy Cross.
It was difficult for him to understand the intention.
"Your father is here?! Surely, he can move the Knights of the Holy Cross according to His Majesty's orders..."
Lunea seemed surprised by the sudden news, as if she had never heard it before.
To answer that question, I turned the reins and headed toward the south gate.
When I arrived at the south gate, the place was noisy with the knights shouting.
"Lord Van Hoss! You must not come in so recklessly!"
"Stop it! Sir Van Hoss said he won't kill you! This is your only chance to clash swords with the Sword Saint!"
"Don't tarnish the name of the Lighthouse of Humanity! Argh!"
The hissing sound of Aura colliding with Aura was heard beyond the castle gate.
The commotion was short-lived, and a strong wind blew through the gap in the castle gate, which had suddenly become quiet.
"...Keuheuk!"
I covered my face with my arms from the wind pressure.
When the wind that was blowing with the force of destroying the castle gate calmed down, I noticed a change in the south gate.
"The castle gate is open...?"
The south gate was clearly bolted and firmly closed.
However, after a strong wind blew, not only was the bolt cut cleanly, but the door was left wide open.
He demonstrated the art of blowing his sword energy through that tiny gap and cutting the bolt cleanly.
The fearsomeness of the name Geomseong was enough to make my stomach tingle.
Beyond the open gate, I could see human lighthouses scattered here and there.
There was also one person they couldn't stop.
A short, white-haired old man.
A man who would have looked like an unsightly old man if someone had not told him he was a swordsman was approaching, wearing the cloak of the Knights of the Holy Cross that was still flowing like a cloak.
While patting my back.
"Oh my gosh, it's been a while since I've moved, and my back hurts from dealing with the Human Lighthouse bastards. Oh! Runea! You're here!"
"Ah, father. What on earth is this...? Didn't you go into hiding for training?"
"Emperor, that kid is so annoying. Oh, he's such an arrogant brat with no manners at all. Father Ji was still shameful. That's the problem with things these days."
Landeros coolly made a statement that could be summarily executed for insulting the imperial family.
Well, Runea, the vice-captain of the Knights of the Holy Cross, couldn't say anything to his verbal abuse, so who would cut off his head?
I felt embarrassed seeing the Sword Saint like that.
If you think about it, he was a character who didn't have any lines in the original work.
Just like me, I'm just an extra who opens the door to an epic story.
So, there was nothing in the original work or setting book to infer what his personality was like.
I never thought he would have such a bold personality.
When I thought about it, his first meeting was very similar to Runea's.
That was when I drew my sword and started playing the game.
Are you saying that she is the adoptive daughter of that father?
Landeroth complained to Runea once and looked at me with her wrinkled eyes.
"Yes, you must be Bjorn de Jevitz. What can I call you? A genius of the century? A hero who saved the North from the demonic cults? Or a usurper or Lord of Stemwind? Which is the real you?"
"Do you need my opinion, Sword Saint? If I speak positively, are you willing to think in a positive light?"
"Honestly, I don't care about your opinion. Your actions are needed. Words are vain, and the mind tends to change depending on the situation. Only actions show your true colors."
As I looked at the Sword Saint, my desire to win, which I had never had before, boiled over.
This is the end point of this self-sword.
He has reached the level that knights aspire to.
What does this old man see?
I want to catch a glimpse of that scene.
I want to cross swords at least once.
I gritted my teeth and suppressed the urge.
"I would also like to ask you a question about his actions. The Knights of the Holy Cross are stationed in front of Handar Castle. From what I heard, they are preventing the mercenaries we hired from joining them. So, it is okay for me to misunderstand the Sword Saint as a cheap man, right? "
"The De Jeviets family has had a lot of insolent bastards since ancient times. You can't lie about your blood, either."
Despite my provocation, Lander Ross had a kind face like a grandfather looking at his spoiled grandchild.
He took out a piece of paper from his chest.
"This is your Majesty's order. Listen."
The letter was read by Geomseong as if he were handing over a letter to his friend next door.
I couldn't help but be astonished by Sir Landeros's next words.
"His Majesty was deeply saddened by the terrible situation that occurred in the North and was enraged by Count Haenrel's atrocities. Therefore, His Majesty dispatched the Knights of the Holy Cross and the Magic Brigade to the North to take action. He also punished 25,000 mercenaries hired from the North. You promised to pay all expenses from the imperial family. Will you acknowledge Your Majesty's kindness?"
"...Of course, I understand. I also know what Your Majesty wants. I have a rough guess, but what happens if I refuse?"
"His Majesty is also suspicious of your true intentions. If you refuse, his Majesty will receive confirmation that you did not raise an army to purge the demon cultists, but waged war for personal advancement and power struggle." "We will discourage the hiring of mercenaries, saying that imperial citizens cannot be used in the fight."
The current Oxburg Empire is located between the Middle Ages and modern times in Earth's history.
A huge mercenary company has been created in the central region, and that mercenary company is on the verge of becoming a standing army during the war with the Kingdom of Junta.
In other words, the imperial family was the absolute best when it came to mercenaries.
If you wanted, it was possible to ignore employment that had already been made.
However, there was not enough time to recruit troops in a different way.
So what if you receive an offer from the imperial family? That is self-defeating.
It is the North that prepared the table for the purge of the devil cultists, and the imperial family will take away all the merits.
The interest in Haenrell will also be squeezed in.
The imperial forces that have already entered the north cannot be expelled by force.
In the end, the North will be stuck with a straw and have its plump flesh sucked out.
You're so persistent, you crazy emperor. Are you going to this damn extent to try to penetrate the north somehow?
"Of course, this is external talk, and I would like to talk about the main topic separately. Do you think I came here to act as a messenger for the emperor and that kid? How long do you plan on leaving this old man standing on the street like this? Tsk tsk, these days, children "These things have no respect whatsoever..."
In response to Landeros' criticism, I showed a dumbfounded expression and guided him to Handar Castle and the castle lord's official residence.
While on the way, Landeros talked to Runea about the past.
Most of it was trivial talk that I couldn't understand.
The sight of a daughter and father who are perfect and therefore nothing special was refreshing.
Landeros said to me who was looking at me curiously.
"Humans are so cunning that they keep the beginning and the end more in their hearts."
Until now, in the history of the Oxburg Empire, there have been several people who succeeded the Sword Saint.
Even to him, Runea seemed special.
He has lost his power as a saint and will soon reach the end of his life. The last child he received was Runea.
I roughly understood that feeling.
As soon as he arrived at the official residence, Lord Landeros got down to business even before the car came out.
"Do not accept the emperor's offer."
"...I never said I would receive it?"
"Then so be it. The Emperor has no intention of helping you. He intends to take control of the North when the Northern Alliance and the Rebels destroy each other."
I frowned at Landeros' words.
I expected it, but I didn't believe it would actually happen, but it turned out to be true.
"The emperor is taking the devil lightly. He is only thinking of using this opportunity to devour the North. Perhaps someone is blocking the emperor's eyes."
"I don't dare ask you if you can prove that statement in an insolent manner. The Sword Saint has no reason to lie. However, I have one question..."
Lander Ross said, flipping his gray hair coolly.
"Why am I helping you? That's what you're wondering, right?"
"To be more precise, there is nothing complicated for a Sword Master, right? A Sword Master can crush something like snapping a child's wrist, so you can check for yourself and arbitrarily sort out the situation in the North."
Rather than providing useless help like this, play a practical role.
Aren't you a swordsman?
Even though the question was almost like a reprimand, Landeros smiled at the words and opened his mouth as if admonishing.
"That's like asking why the Sword Saint didn't become emperor. If I step forward every time like this, what's the need for the empire and what's the use of the nobility? In the end, humanity will be weeded out, looking at me like a baby bird for the rest of its life with its mouth open. Then how do you fight the devil? This is called the saint's dilemma."
It's not that I don't understand what he means.
However, if the person who can actually save you ignores the situation, resentment is bound to arise.
Even if it wasn't his fault.
"And I am no longer a saint. I can no longer hunt down those who have made a pact with the devil, and I have no interest in the devil cult. After 250 years, isn't it time to retire? So I should leave the rest to a new saint."
◈ Chapter 62 - 10-Before the Storm
I picked my ears several times, wondering if I had heard wrong.
Even after thinking about it again, there was only one conclusion.
"So, it sounds like you don't want to clean up the poop yourself, so you guys should take care of it. You have to clean your own ass."
Runea, who was next to her, became restless due to the harsh words.
But she should know.
I'm being very polite right now.
"Hmm, is that so? Now that I think about it, I guess it's true."
Landeros smiled brightly, saying that what I said made sense.
This guy, are you kidding me?
I cornered him in an irritated tone.
"If we can't hire mercenaries in the first place, our only troops will be 7,000 knights. If the battle continues like this, the Northern Allied Forces will also have to endure significant damage. At that time, Your Majesty will definitely attack."
In any case, if we had to ultimately subdue Count Haenrel with the forces of the Northern Alliance alone, wouldn't it be better to accept the imperial family's offer and engage in political battle later?
Landeros shook his head at that question.
"I need to correct you. The Northern Alliance forces do not have 7,000 troops. If you withdraw all your strength from Handar Castle, the Knights of the Holy Cross and the Magic Brigade will take over the castle under the pretext of supporting you. So, the knight guarding Handar Castle "We can't send them into battle."
"Ha, we are in the thick of it. So our troops number 5,000. In that case, we are outnumbered, so how on earth are we going to subdue Haenrel's rebels?"
Well then, I wondered why it was so easy.
This time too, Jeong Pan-sik's sudden appearance made me lose my mind.
If it weren't for the swordsman, he would have spit out double insults at the other person.
At this point, the imperial family had declared war on the North.
In my heart, I wanted to start by attacking the Knights of the Holy Cross who were setting up camp in front of Handar Castle.
"Don't feel resentful. Anyway, in this situation, even if we fight according to your plan, the Northern Alliance forces will be annihilated."
"What does that mean?"
"Well, the Knights of the Holy Cross weren't just sitting around either. I can't reveal it now. Don't worry. I came up here to the north to stop that."
Landeros said something meaningful.
It was also something I couldn't understand.
How can you annihilate 32,000 troops with only 7,500 when there are equally sword masters on both sides?
However, as mentioned before, Geomseong has no reason to lie.
"Just think of it as a saint handover. Your job is the same. Purge the rebels as planned. Don't tell me it's difficult without mercenaries. You have a saint."
Landeros' words were close to a one-sided notice.
To summarize his words, the Northern Alliance is currently facing an unknown crisis, and he declared that he will personally prevent it.
I couldn't yet understand the intention behind it, but I am also an old man in this world.
You can't handle things this way.
"The Sword Saint is preventing the mercenaries with whom we legitimately signed a contract from joining, and is forcing the North to make a unilateral sacrifice. Am I wrong?"
"Since His Majesty has ordered so, shouldn't we at least pretend to listen?"
I pointed out Geomseong's sophistry.
"No. The Sword Saint told me to reject that offer, so this is a matter between me and the Sword Saint. The Sword Saint asked me a favor, and I am not obligated to grant that request. So, if you want me to follow your offer, do something that is appealing. You must present it."
"Hmm, you're right. But I have nothing I can give you, so what can I do?"
"Why doesn't the Sword Saint have anything to give me? I want the skills of the Sword Saint. If I ask you, please lend me your skills just once, without asking for a reason."
We need to persuade the Northern Allied Forces, who are outnumbered, and drive them into battle, but wouldn't it be balanced if we were issued at least one Free Sword Master ticket?
Landeros was frozen and silent for a while.
The kind smile that had been on his face until now also disappeared.
The person who sat across from me was no longer the cozy old man.
He was the Paladin of Terminus.
"I heard a lot about the North. I thought it was De Jeviez. The De Jeviets family has been known for generations for their arrogant ways of speaking and a warm heart that doesn't match them. You have proven that mentality with your actions. I won't worry that you will misuse my power. "
He spoke to me firmly, as if he had made up his mind.
"If you wish, this old man's sword will be pointed at your enemy just once. That is, of course, when this is all over. Is this the deal?"
"That is enough. Please keep your words."
The majesty that dominated the room disappeared as soon as he answered.
With that, the matter in the North was concluded.
If you look at it from the outside, the damage may seem serious, but I also have a part of myself that believes in it.
That's why we recruited Ember Cutter for times like these.
"But why do you need my help when you too were 'chosen'?"
I could immediately tell what choice Landeros was talking about.
It seemed like he could see the passion in Jin and my body in his eyes.
"...Didn't you say that you are no longer a saint?"
"Just because I can't use the power of the Holy Sword doesn't mean that all my strength has disappeared. I just got older and weaker. I won't go into detail about it. But you will be at the center of the storm of the times."
"Don't be so lucky. I don't want that."
"It's harsh. Fate is. Some people have longed for it. It won't be possible for you to overcome the adversity that will come your way with just my help."
I couldn't help but tilt my head at that faint voice.
What are you saying, old man?
"What can I do? Accept that God's will is like that. I did the same."
He burst out laughing, calling it an old man's nonsense, and Landeros got up from his seat and approached Mion, who was standing next to him.
As if I knew from the beginning that he was a saint.
Disguise would have been meaningless to him from the beginning.
"Saint, this old man offers his greetings. Please protect humanity with light from the thick darkness."
Lander Ross knelt down to a young child and kissed the back of his hand.
Perhaps the saints before him did the same to him.
250 years ago, I would have kissed the back of his hand and said the same thing.
To protect humanity.
In the biography of Esteria, Landeros ultimately dies without ever meeting Mion.
So there was no scene where the two met like this.
Now, a saint's transfer ceremony, which was not in the original, was unfolding before my eyes.
"Saint. I give you back what was originally yours that I kept for a while."
Something round came out of his chest.
It was a shining sphere that looked like a large pearl.
Even Mion, who was perplexed by the Sword Saint's actions, stared blankly at the eye-catching beauty and muttered.
"Holy sword...Galgedubal..."
The holy sword, which was given by the god for mankind and has protected mankind for over a thousand years, was revealed at the official residence of Handar Castle.
In the original work, it appears as a worn-out sword. Is that its original form?
It seemed to be inhabiting the body in that state and then being converted into a weapon of the type desired by the saint.
The galgdubal that emerged from Landeros' chest moved towards Mion, and its brilliant light filled the room until it was absorbed by Mion.
Unofficially, Landeros was no longer a saint from this moment on.
"It's heartless of you to leave without even looking back."
Lander Ross seemed to be very upset and fell to his knees, scolding his holy sword.
That's right, since it's a sword that's been with me for 250 years, I'm sure there will be affection for it that wasn't there before.
As a fellow driver, I was able to understand his feelings to some extent.
"Saint, these are solemn times. You will bear a heavier burden than any other saint in history. I pray that the Lord's blessings will be with you in the future."
"Lord Van Hoss..."
"I know. You may not feel it yet, but don't worry. Humans are creatures of adaptation."
A hand with wrinkles grabbed a young and delicate hand.
Behind the words to take it easy, there was an adult feeling of guilt for having entrusted too much of a burden to a child.
"Once the matter in the North is sorted out, I will formally invite you to the capital. There will also be a holy sword handover ceremony with a fake sword. It will suffer from ostentation for a while, but after that, the continent will be happy about the birth of a new saint and will be able to eradicate its anxiety. "My daughter, Runea, will attend the saint."
Mion had no intention of going down to the central region.
If he went down, he would likely live as the emperor's puppet for the rest of his life, so he chose the free North.
But things have changed.
Even Mion knew that the demon cult was eating away at the empire.
In the end, when the time comes for Mion, he will go down to the capital and fulfill his role as a saint.
Because that's the type of personality.
"Well, I... Will I really be able to do it well?"
"You're doing a good job of asking that."
Lander Ross looked at Mion as warmly as he would his grandchild.
"But I never thought this saint would be a woman. My previous saint was also a woman. Meeting him like this makes me miss him even more."
"..."
As soon as Mion heard those words, his attitude immediately became cold.
Ah, Sword Saint, I scratched the surface.
"Hmm? Did I say something wrong...?"
"No, Sword Saint. But I'm a man. I'm wearing these clothes for a while to disguise myself."
Haha! Such a story! I was rude without knowing it! Even though you are still young, it is truly admirable that you value reason over emotions. If you just suppress shame, you can confuse your enemies, so isn't that the best way to kill two birds with one stone?"
"..."
Mion's expression became colder at the exclamation of the Sword Saint.
However, I feel sorry for Mion, but those words were a compliment to me.
See, my stomach wasn't wrong.
Even the sharp eyes of the Sword Saint, who found Jin and immediately recognized the saint, did not notice Mion's cross-dressing.
It's close to impossible for a Hatbari demon cultist to understand Mion?
[Really... Is it a good thing or a bad thing that this works? ...]
The private conversation with Geomseong ended with Jin's seemingly ambiguous words.
*
"So, you're telling me to use 5,000 Northern Alliance troops to suppress the rebel army, which consists of 5,500 knights and 2,000 regular troops? That too with minimal damage?"
"Exactly."
"I will resign. Thank you so much."
◈ Chapter 63 - 10-Before the Storm