Chapter 253: At the Royal Castle (5)

Chapter 253: At the Royal Castle (5)

Id prefer you not wander around the castle. Instead, feel free to use anything in this room. Make yourself comfortable.

Crus said before leaving the room. Restricting our freedom to roam implied that it would also be difficult for us to interact with each other. Despite the luxury of the room, was it paranoid to think this was a deliberate attempt to isolate us from one another?

Fortunately, most of us are demons. I can detect changes through vibrations; Zald and Bolts can do the same through smell; and Mika through hearing. Any attempt to divide us and enact something wouldnt likely be meaningful.

Now, what to do in this unnecessarily large room given to us? When I glanced around, I found that the only sources of entertainment seemed to be alcohol, books, and board games. Alcohol is out of the question for someone like me and the young Chirik, and my only knowledge of board games is that they exist with no understanding of the rules or tactics. Enjoying them is out of the question.

That leaves books as the only option to pass the time. I took Chirik to the bookshelf and, on his behalf due to his poor eyesight, began reading the titles written on the spines one by one.

How about it? Any book that interests you? Dont hold back.

Um then Im curious about Tales of Wandering in the Western Lands!

Chirik and I settled side by side on a long bench and I began to read a book titled Tales of Wandering in the Western Lands. As the title suggested, the book was a travelogue of a certain traveler.

According to my knowledge, this travelogue genre was popular worldwide. This was probably because the areas beyond city walls and fences were overrun with powerful wild animals, making travel itself dangerous.

When I think about it, all the creatures that I went to capture under Orvos orders, including those synthesized with Tigar and the others, were extremely strong. While those trained in combat might stand a chance, individuals without any knowledge could hardly retaliate against such strength.

Although not all creatures possessed such formidable strength, traveling entailed the risk of encountering such beings. Considering the deteriorating security due to wars and the frequent appearance of bandits, travel was indeed a life-threatening venture.

Thats precisely why firsthand accounts from those who had actually visited other lands offered readers a fictional experience of travel. The value of travelogues might continue to rise until the continents situation stabilized.

Hehe, maybe if I write about the South, it might just sell well.

Teacher? Whats the matter?

Nothing; lets continue reading.

While thinking that no one would probably read a travelogue written by me, I flipped open the cover and read the contents. It turned out the author was an adventurer who preferred traveling over three meals a day. Nnêw n0vel chapters are published at novelhall.com

The book detailed the authors journey across the western regions of the Enzo continent, exploring various countries and documenting their histories, cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and local culinary traditions. Oh, when you say it like that, I cant help but get interested too.

Lets see The culture in the western part of the continent is fundamentally influenced by the teachings of the Justice Church. To summarize their doctrine, it advocates living a clean and righteous life every day.

Clean and righteous, huh? That has nothing to do with me.

Hmph, dont worry about it. Only those whove never struggled to live could possibly manage to live so cleanly and righteously in every sense. To strive to live is not wrong. I wont hear such talk.

thank you, teacher

Chiriks eyes sparkled as he said that he wanted to try the stew. Chirik was mature enough, but it was reassuring to see him show reactions befitting his age. Well then, perhaps I should read the section about his favorite stew once more.

As we were engrossed in the Tales of Wandering in the Western Lands the sound of several footsteps reached us. It was not mealtime, so I focused on the sound, wondering what it might be. Chirik, who had noticed the footsteps almost at the same time as I did, also strained his ears to identify their source.

The doors open. Come in.

Please excuse us.

From the number of footsteps, I could deduce how many visitors were approaching, and from the pace of their approach, I could gauge their stride. Combining these clues, I guessed the identity of our guests and, therefore, informed them through the closed door that it was open without waiting for a knock.

The reason I welcomed them unconditionally was because they were people we knew. The door was opened by Hilda, followed first by Chris and then by Liselotte. It turned out to be the three of them as I expected.

What brings you here, my lady? It doesnt seem like youve just come to check on us.

Yes, youre right. His Majesty has asked me to persuade you.

Liselotte explained her purpose with a troubled smile. Indeed, it seemed the king had sent the person he deemed most suitable to persuade me. It seemed like he wanted me more than I initially thought.

Then, Liselotte took a seat on the sofa opposite us, with Chris looking sad and Hilda, expressionless, standing behind her. I urged them both to sit down with my eyes, and Liselotte thought for a moment, then smiled kindly and ordered them to sit down as well.

At first I thought I would try to persuade you with reason, like an aristocrat, but I thought it would be better to be honest with you if I wanted to persuade you. So Ill be honest. In fact, because of the problems caused by my relative, my position has become a bit compromised. and I cant even afford to be refused.

Hmm I see. Well, if I can be of help, then I will lend my strength.

Eh?! Just like that?!

Are you sure?

Chris and Hilda seemed surprised but I had already decided that I would grant Liselottes request, as long as it did not endanger the lives of myself or my comrades. I felt I owed her that much gratitude. Even those among us who were reluctant to get involved with the countrys affairs would likely agree to help for Liselottes sake.

Why did we give Liselotte special treatment? It was because she did not discriminate against us for being demons and treated us without any prejudice. It was only natural to prioritize the wishes of Liselotte, whom we knew well and regarded highly, over the rewards offered by King Carl, whose character was unknown to us despite his esteemed reputation.

As for the details of the agreement, we can work those out later But where are Leo and Lappy? Why are they acting separately?

Well actually King Carl said, Id like to have a fight with a real demon

You cant be serious; are they with the king now?!

Not just the king. The future queen is with them as well. They might be crossing swords as we speak.

Hearing Liselottes difficult confession and Hildas incredulous tone, I felt a sense of disbelief wash over me, and I leaned back on the sofa. I was overwhelmed by the bombshell they had just dropped.