Chapter 72 I'm Your Personal Knight Now.

Chapter 46: I'm Your Personal Knight Now.

Kein's POV

The whole army woke up before the sun was up including me. I could hear the noise of soldiers organizing their things. I should get up and do the same.

I yawned, stretching myself awake to see Vanilla who was sleeping soundly behind me. I'll pack up our tent before I wake her up. She's been a huge help in fighting the wyvern; she of course deserves some rest too.

I disassembled the tent parts one by one. Placing it in my [Storage Ring], there's still some time so I should clean my sword too.

I sat down on the grass taking out some oil Alfred packed for me and proceeded to clean the blade with a cloth carefully trying to not cut myself. This always calmed me down, keeping my mind sharp and alert. If I lose focus I would lose a finger while cleaning these.

Not too long after I hear someone's footsteps walking towards me. I felt Vanilla's ears perked up taking a look before snorting then going back to sleep.

"Hey there Kein- what are you doing?" I looked up to see who the voice belonged to and it was Avery.

I sighed not expecting to see her this early in the morning.

"Call me Commander Hills while we're at work but since I'm not on duty right now alright Kein it is." I told her and she laughed faintly before sitting beside me, her body swaying like a little child who was impatient to eat.

"I really like your cursed sword. I casted [Scan] on it. It's curse was supposed to make someone insane once you touch it! That's so cool. Why haven't you gone insane yet? I have a few more questions-" (Avery) with the big questions. I scooched further away from her when her body leaned in over to my side.

Maybe it won't be bad to have a decent conversation and get to know her more.

"Funny thing is. The sword got attached to me I think." I recalled the time I heard hundreds of voices all at once. It kept ringing in my head until it stopped and just became thirsty compliments one day.

I also promised that I'll take revenge on whoever brought them death. I'll do the best I can on that. "Basically it's a sword with hundreds of dead souls that wants revenge and I'm finding their killer for them."

Avery shivered once she heard that story. "Dude, that's dark." (Avery)

I nodded completely understandable to why she looks uncomfortable now, "It's not that bad my magic absorbs the curse of the sword temporarily so I'm alright."

"Other than the weird questions, why did you come here? Did you need something?" I asked and she excitedly explained.

"Okay okay so you know we're friends now and we can help each other out. I want to help you hide your status and keep it locked." (Avery) grins. I completely forgot about that.

I shook my head. "I can't do any other spells that's not related to my magic like I said-"

She cuts me off, "It's just a built-in command. Come on, try it." (Avery) persuaded more her eyes bulging with stars on it. Urk... she's really persistent. Fine I'll do it so she can leave me alone. She's really getting close to my personal space.

"So I just focus on the word status?" Avery nods in reply again and I try to focus on the command. "[Status]."

I waited. We both did but nothing happened. "Um, maybe do it again? Usually it happens on the first try but maybe on the second try?" (Avery)

I did what she said. I shouted status more than I could count. Nothing happened. Avery tilts her head in confusion and I shrugged already expecting this would happen. "I said this won't work. I think it's just a thing with heroes and people who're really strong." I told her.

She groans, holding her face in disappointment, pouting. "I don't get it! You're reincarnated! Usually the main characters in isekai and manga anime already have that, plus very overpowered abilities huh at least you have that one." (Avery) slumps herself down into the ground once again and I laugh.

"Oh yeah anime isekai is still a hit even twenty five years later that's for sure." I replied. Avery gasped and began ranting around several anime titles I've never heard of- "Have you watched the slime that became a demon lord?! Oh, have you ever heard of vtubers?! How about that bookworm anime?! Oh wait maybe you're not an isekai fan but how about-" (Avery)

"Stop right there kiddo." I wave my hand around and she catches her breath. "I know you're excited to talk about the other world but it's like you're never talked about it to anyone I mean-"

Avery places her chin in her palm pouting once again. "Yeah I don't have anyone to talk about manga or anime with. I don't even know if they exist here... I've been so busy with hero work I never got to travel around the other kingdoms. Mission this mission that-"

"No one? Not even the [Sprivanto] Hero you're with?" I ask, "Wait, are the two of you even from the same timeline?"

Avery slumps further. "Hiruki is nice to talk to but he doesn't know a thing about isekai animes. He came from the World War II era and you know how harsh that time is."

From World War II?!

So we got one from WWII, one from the year 2020, and myself from 2045. I tried to stifle a laugh at how I found this just too hilarious. "This is just too funny. How about the other hero from [Winshern] have you guys talked to each other before?" I remember that one moment where I gave him a once over, he noticed me and gave me a glare after that one.

Avery's expression suddenly became sour when I mentioned him. "He's a definite asshole. He fits in the [Winshern] Kingdom perfectly I tell you. I tried forming a party group with him and he flat out rejected me!"

Right, that kingdom is definitely not a good place for women. They hold no power, are forced to always be kept inside of their homes and only have the sole purpose of existing as a political bargaining tool in marriage.

The real Kein's father... is somewhere in there.

We talked about each other more. I explained to her my former job back on my timeline, how some things regarding technology changed and I even told her about my daughter. I had some good laughs with Avery thinking finally... someone who's like me.

It was hard keeping my real self. I was more laid back definitely, I feel like a teenager again goofing around.

I looked through the horizon and the sun was already up enough. Meaning we needed to leave in a few minutes. I stood up, patting the backside of my armor. "Tsk tsk, Vanilla." I called out to her, she stood up shaking her whole body like a cat before snorting in my direction.

Avery stands up as well looking closely at my Pegasus. "Nice horse you got there- or uh pegaus- unicorn? Wait yeah no unicorns have horns that's a Pegasus." (Avery)

Vanilla glares at Avery when she gets called a unicorn but once she gets the right answer Vanilla rolls her eyes out at her.

Avery's eyes widened covering her mouth in embarrassment getting the cold treatment from Vanilla. "I'm apologize to Vanilla the talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, show stopping, spectacular Pegasus I've ever seen.'' She bows down, raising her arms up and down as if she's worshiping Vanilla. "Please forgive me I didn't mean to call you a horse or a unicorn- my brain cells were just fried for a second." (Avery)

Vanilla now refused to even look her in the eye. She turns around making her face her butt. Vanilla purposely moves backward waving her tail until it hits Avery in the face. I snickered, Avery pointed at Vanilla with a disgusted expression, "Damn you got one sassy steed." (Avery)

"Thanks for the laughs Avery but I think we're losing light. I need to gather my brigade team before we move." I held Vanilla by the reins giving a pat by the head taking out an apple from my [Storage Ring]. She neighs happily licking my face afterwards.

Avery sighs, placing her hands to her waist, having a smile on her face. "Thank you for talking to me. It was fun. It's been a while since I've had a talk like that. I suppose back to the escorting mission we go."

"See you around Kein and of course the gorgeous Pegasus in the back right there." she finger guns Vanilla with a wink who rolls her eyes with all this flattery.

I couldn't help but laugh when Avery finally left. "How many compliments you've gotten this time huh, good girl."

I pat her mane before I rest my foot at the stirrup of the saddle and then place myself at her back. "In a few more hours we'll be at Winshern kingdom, meaning the sooner I'll be Rose's personal knight..."

It's not that much of a thrilling proposition that's for sure. Why would Vincent's father order something like this? Surely the heroes would be a more fitting choice.

I looked down feeling irritated, the nerve on my forehead was on the verge of popping. I groaned, I swear it's been days close to a week of traveling. I can't bear to put up with Rose some more because let's be honest she's being immature. "I mean I just called her princess and she goes all cold mode! What the heck was that?!" I clutched the reins tightly, suddenly bursting the words out of my mouth, Vanilla noticing my distress neighed with worry grabbing my attention.

"Ah..." I consciously patted her mane, making me relaxed. I sighed tiredly, "Sorry girl I just have some things I need to think through properly. I don't have anyone to talk about this so sorry if you felt like I'm taking it out on you."

Vanilla leans over and licks my face. I laughed, patting her some more. At least I have a Pegasus for emotional support. "Come on, let's go regroup with the others."

She walks through the disassembled tents and right beside the royal carriage where usually our post is. Vanilla stands still in our spot, her wings shaking a little. My eyes couldn't help but wander over her window that was still covered with curtains.

So she's going to continue to ignore me like yesterday didn't happen? I clicked my tongue, "Two can play that game." I muttered under my breath not wanting to care but I mean... then again she looked for me.

That means she still cares- right?

"Attention soldiers." My head scrambles forward to see Vincent riding his own Pegasus announcing everyone to listen up. Of course, that included me. "In a few hours we will be at the kingdom's border. Everyone should be aware of the rules, female knights and adventurers will always be accompanied by at least one man." (Vincent)

I could hear the females whisper and roll their eyes crossing their arms, displeased with the news. "It is by kingdom rules that no woman will roam around freely. I apologize but we must abide by their rules once we enter." (Vincent) still looked tired but I could see his hands were doing well. He punched that table pretty hard yesterday.

He suddenly coughs looking towards my direction, "Except for the Princess's new personal knight. We have asked for early consent to be exempted from this rule. Kein Hills."

Everyone looked towards my direction and I looked away, my heart panicking from all this attention. It felt like I was at the back of my classroom before then I sneezed. Everyone's gaze bearing onto me.

I could see Natasha covering her mouth in shock and Avery who was not that far from her grinning like she was enjoying every bit of this farce.

The carriage suddenly rattled, the carriage window opened, my eyes widened as everyone else turned their direction to the noise.

Rose's head could be seen popping up with a confused expression. "Wait! I never heard of this?! Lord Wolford what is the meaning of this?! I never asked for such an escort!" (Rose)

Rose turned her gaze to look at me, her face flushed and was almost on the verge of tears. Damn, am I that horrible to be with?!

Vincent ignored her and continued to lay down more rules we have to follow. "Make sure to keep your magic at a low profile. Do not create trouble and we'll leave to return to the kingdom once two weeks have passed."

Ouch. He gave the princess the cold shoulders- then again Rose gave us both the cold shoulders first so I guess this is payback. I stifled a laugh, I had to bite my lip in order for it not to slip out but the little princess noticed.

She glares at me before plopping her head back inside the carriage pouting.

I love her, that pout was cute but Rose really deserved that one.

I listened to Vincent some more. No smuggling, no stealing, no damaging properties, no women should be rowdy, and before entering there's supposed to be a statue of the current king in the middle of some plaza.

If we're ever near there we must pay our respects and bow once.

It's so... strict.

Vincent salutes after finishing his announcement. "Everyone is ready to go. Now we move."

Everyone marched.

Hours passed by and seconds later we could already see the snow.

The kingdom was winter-like, the road was a little icy, and the trees were covered in snow. We had to stop for a bit to wear our winter clothing before continuing. "We're almost there." (Vincent)

Those words kept everyone going, at the same time the women had their expressions full of dread.

The reason was clear. Even though I wasn't excited to be there, I already know that this kingdom is really favorable to men having all the power. Even to the point of abuse.

The Puronia kingdom, even if it had some weird church cult, had equality. Women can have jobs, speak their own mind, and wear what they want.

I remembered Natasha who was a former civilian of that kingdom.

With the thought of that my eyes drifted to hers. She had to live her life oppressed by society for being a woman. Natasha must've gone through a lot.

I'm glad... I saved her back then when we first met.

"I can see the borders not too far!" An adventurer shouted in excitement when finally the kingdom borders were indeed close.

I felt my chest tighten knowing that my new duty will begin.

Everyone was glad, when we arrived Vincent had to address the soldier in a language I didn't know. We waited patiently and finally the border gate opened.

They had some sort of magic field protecting it even from the inside.

A few more seconds they disabled it and we marched inside.

My exhaled breath turned into small clouds looking into the buildings. It was dark, damp, cold, and no one seemed to be around. "We're finally here after... many chapters of journey."

The buildings were built in cobble-like structure. Everyone had a smoking chimney that was on.

A soldier that was wearing the Winshern colors uniform greeted us with a salute, both of their hands being put at the back, their posture being straight. "Welcome, we have been expecting you." They greeted me politely.

Vincent goes down to his saddle before saluting back. "I am General Vincent Wolford, the person in charge of escorting the princess. I humbly thank you for welcoming us and I apologize for the delay."

With a few more exchange of words everyone waited. Vincent looked towards my direction before motioning me to come over.

My body perked up, I quickly went down and stood by Vincent's side saluting. "Commander Kein Hills, sir."

Vincent smiles, placing his hand into my shoulders. "This is the princess's appointed knight. I understand that we have the agreed contract upon letting her roam freely without a man by her side."

The soldier nodded, giving me a once look. It felt like he was sizing me up. After that he hands me an iron card and I take it. "This is a pass given to women with exceptions who can go and leave as they please. You are lucky." he snickers before saluting, giving Vincent a nod and leaving.

"What the-" Did he just snicker at me? "Well that was rude." I muttered quietly putting the card into my [Storage Ring].

Vincent glances at me before sighing looking even more tired than before. "Kein, we need to talk. My father-" he stops for a bit, biting his lip.

I looked towards the army waiting and I shook my head. Whatever they can wait for a few more minutes. Vincent needs me. "Yeah about that. Actually are you alright Vincent?"

He shakes his head. "No. My father knows about my... hobby. Someone has apparently threatened him with photos of me shopping for clothes." (Vincent)

Damn- what the hell-

"That's really dirty whoever did that was horrible-" Once I get my hands on whoever that is I'll show no mercy. "Did your father say who sent it?"

Vincent shakes his head. "He didn't want me to know but that person made a strange request and wanted you to be Princess Rosarie's knight on this journey."

What the f- I stopped my mind from cursing and held my forehead feeling a migraine coming. "I swear whoever this is they have it out for the both of us. What the hell?! Are they enjoying us being in pain and anxiety right now?"

Vincent rubs the back of his neck before sighing. "I apologize for not telling you sooner Lady Kein- I just... had a lot of things in my mind."

I purse my lip feeling the same exact pain he has. "Me too, Vincent. Me too."

We gave each other an understanding look and for once he smiled genuinely. "Now go back and keep the princess safe. At least it was you that will be her guard. I trust you, Lady Kein." (Vincent)

Vincent's father is literally one of the most powerful men who can't be easily broken down- Duke Tristan Wolford, if someone was to blackmail him he can easily remove their existence but was it someone so powerful he can't touch?

I don't know what to feel after knowing all this. "I won't let you down."

We both went back, he led the army where they will stay in an inn for a bit. The adventurers decided to separate with us and visit the guild. I of course had to escort the princess so I will be on her side 24/7 now.

We stopped when we reached the castle. It was... big and had a really gloomy cloud above it. I plopped down from Vanilla's back and opened the carriage door. "Your highness, we're here."

I held out my hand as I kneeled, it was knight customary to offer their hand to the princesses making sure they got down the carriage safely.

I felt her hand press against mine. It was warm.

I looked up to see her gaze and admired it, even if she was really annoying and childish-

She's still the same Rose who cared for the children in the orphanage, the girl who sneaked out of her castle every week just to help others, and the woman I fell in love with.

"T-Thank you." (Rose) mutters weakly quickly, taking off her hand from mine. "You may leave now. I will be fine with my other guards."

After all this- you little- you're still going to avoid me? Even after all Vincent said- with these thoughts in my mind I laughed. This princess is getting on my last nerves. "No can do your highness, didn't you hear what our almighty general said? I'm your personal knight now." I gave her a polite smile which she didn't take kindly.

Rose swallows the lump in her throat before looking away. "Y-You're still stubborn even now. I didn't even want this." (Rose) complained.

I told myself the same thing, over and over again how I'll forget about you. To never see you again. I loathed you but my love for you was even greater.

If you're not going to step up and be responsible. I'll do it. "My apologies to your highness. Try your luck again next time but you're really stuck with me until we get back home."

She shakes her head and crosses her arms, her expression turning distant. "Fine, I have no choice. Lead me to my quarters!" (Rose)

I nodded leading the way. I only hope... we can make amends on this trip. I looked at Rose who didn't spare a glance at me. I wonder what she's even thinking right now?