Chapter 0524 Mifa's Fierce Battle
-x-X-x-
Shortly before the attack on Princess Shio Fen's detached palace, Sue Ku's party arrived at Duke Kang's residence.
A fully armed group of over two hundred men.
Yet, the gates of Duke Kang's residence opened before them, and the entire group was ushered inside.
Naturally, Sue Ku suspected a trap.
"
This wind-attribute magic detects talismans and charms set within a certain range.
It was developed during the previous dynasty of Darwei and is also used by a few individuals in the Bosuntar Kingdom, including Sue Ku.
Talismans are inherently well-suited for concealment, making them difficult to detect even with
However, Sue Ku was a seasoned mage.
"Only attack-reflecting talismans on the outer walls. No magic-sealing ones. What's going on here…?"
Accepting over two hundred fully armed soldiers without magic or sorcery traps?
"Although unpopular these days…
A wind-attribute magic that, for example, detects hidden ambushes…
"As I thought, no ambushes either."
Indeed, that was expected.
Unlike talismans, ambushes can be sensed by presence.
For someone like Sue Ku, who had survived countless brushes with death, detecting such things was second nature.
Yet even for the experienced Sue Ku, the situation at Duke Kang's residence was baffling.
"In the end, meeting directly is the best way to understand."
Sue Ku, accompanied by close aides, was escorted to Duke Kang.
The servants, surprisingly deferential, guided them.
"Sue Ku, welcome."
Duke Kang's first words as he greeted them.
Completely ordinary.
Despite the near state of war, completely ordinary.
And that was precisely what was abnormal.
As a magician, Sue Ku immediately sensed something was off about Duke Kang.
(What is this…? The flow of Duke Kang's magic is strange…his internal magic power is severely depleted, and there's an external source of magic power flowing in? I've never seen a flow like this before…)
"I apologize for the unfortunate misunderstanding the other day."
Duke Kang bowed in apology before Sue Ku.
He was apologizing, but…
(Looking closely, even his expression lacks vitality. Duke Kang, known for his strong, forceful personality, appears completely subdued.)
Sue Ku lowered her head in response.
"No, your words are too gracious."
Lowering her head broke Duke Kang's line of sight.
With her eyes closed, Sue Ku muttered softly.
"
He had used the spell outside the mansion gates earlier.
There had been no talismans related to traps outside, but…
(Found it! Beneath Duke Kang's chair? Moreover, there's a flow of magic power from the talisman to him. Could such a talisman even exist?)
Sue Ku raised her head.
While maintaining a neutral expression, her thoughts raced.
(A flow of magic power from a talisman to a person…if the individual isn't a sorcerer, they'd fall under the talisman's control… Could it be controlling Duke Kang?! )
A certain ancient sorcery came to Sue Ku's mind.
(Puppet…)
A very old sorcery.
A very old sorcery, said to originate from the floating continent or the ancient city of Babylon.
Known for its ancient roots, only one method of dispelling it has ever been discovered.
The caster of the sorcery must be killed.
(No, it's not confirmed to be a puppet spell yet. I need to verify…but that would require undressing him…)
Sue Ku sighed deeply in her heart.
The puppet spell inscribes a distinctive magic circle over the target's chest, near the heart.
Confirming it would reveal the spell's presence…
However, examining someone of Duke Kang's stature was far from straightforward.
(There's no choice.)
Looking directly at Duke Kang, Sue Ku spoke.
"Duke Kang, I have a private matter to discuss. I'd like to speak alone with you—please dismiss the others."
"Very well."
Duke Kang agreed without changing his expression or tone.
Further convincing Sue Ku that the odds of him being under the puppet spell were over 80%.
The Duke's behavior was far too different from the man Sue Ku knew.
Once everyone had left and moved a safe distance away, Sue Ku cast another spell.
"
Duke Kang instantly fell into a slumber.
Sue Ku loosened the Duke's clothing to reveal his chest.
There it was…
"A star-shaped magic circle. A puppet spell, as I thought…"
Sue Ku sighed deeply.
And shook her head slightly.
Her late sister's husband.
Though their methods and philosophies differed.
But still…
"He doesn't deserve such a fate."
Sue Ku muttered, a single tear slipping from her lowered face.
The puppet spell could only be broken by killing its caster.
Likely Dezai—a rumored sorcerer.
"I hope Dezai is somewhere in this mansion…"
Wiping her tears, Sue Ku lifted her head resolutely.
The path forward was clear.
"Someone, come here! "
"Yes, ma'am!"
At Sue Ku's call, a subordinate entered swiftly.
"Find Dezai immediately! Inform everyone in the mansion that this is by Duke Kang's order. If anyone obstructs the search, you may cut them down."
"Understood! "
The subordinates dispersed quickly.
"My apologies, Duke Kang. I've used your name without permission."
Of course, the sleeping Duke offered no response.
Meanwhile, in Princess Shio Fen's detached palace.
The princess had relocated to the largest, innermost audience chamber, protected by guards.
Among them were twenty elite royal guards under her direct command.
And Mifa.
"Shio-sama, please bear with it for a little longer."
"I'm fine, Mifa."
Princess Shio Fen replied with a smile to Mifa's words.
At that moment, commotion arose outside the chamber doors.
The sounds of clashing swords reached even inside the audience chamber.
Along with angry shouts.
Naturally, the twenty members of the Princess's Guard and Mifa readied their swords.
"There's an entrance to one of the underground passageways just next to the audience chamber. It seems they entered from there."
The calmest among them was, ironically, Shio Fen, whose life was being targeted.
"Even though It's sealed with alchemic locks…"
"Nothing done by humans is ever perfect."
Princess Shio Fen responded with a wry smile to Mifa's words.
The difference lay in their levels of resolve.
Before long, the chamber doors were broken down.
A single man entered.
"It seems this is the correct place."
He said with a sly smile, holding a black longsword. He had jet-black hair cut to his shoulders, dark eyes, and a tall frame.
"No way…"
"This can't be! "
"Why…Why is it you….?"
Voices of shock and disbelief arose from the Princess's Guard.
Mifa didn't know who the black-sworded man was.
But his overwhelming presence threatened to crush her.
"Lord Vogue, it has been a while, hasn't it?"
"As expected of you, Your Highness. Even in this situation, you don't scream or cry—your composure is truly admirable. I've always believed you should be this country's queen."
"That's nonsense."
Princess Shio Fen calmly brushed off the man's words.
But the mention of 'Lord Vogue' was enough for Mifa to realize who the man with the black sword was.
"The current 'Sword of the Nation'…"
Vogue must have heard Mifa's murmur.
He chuckled as he replied.
"Ahaha, correct, little girl. And you are…whoa."
Before he could finish, the Princess's Guard attacked.
"I was still talking."
Vogue muttered with a scowl, effortlessly evading their assault.
Not only did he dodge, but he also countered precisely, taking down the Princess's Guard one by one.
Even to Mifa's eyes, his strength was overwhelming.
"Too strong…"
In just two minutes, Vogue had slain all twenty members of the Princess's Guard.
"Your Elite Guard seems to lack proper training."
He said with a laugh.
"You are simply too strong, Lord Vogue."
"Ah, you flatter me. I am deeply honored."
Princess Shio Fen said, and Lord Vogue replied, bowing with exaggerated courtesy.
"You certainly have the confidence to come alone, and the strength to back it up."
"No, that's a misunderstanding. The alchemic locks sealing the underground passage is of the highest-grade and only allows one person to bypass it. That's why I came alone."
As Vogue spoke, he began to walk forward.
"And now, I shall claim Your Highness's life…"
"Not yet! "
Mifa stepped in front of him.
Vogue narrowed his eyes.
"Little girl, you cannot win."
He dropped the mocking smile and said seriously.
"Even so, I will not yield."
Mifa stood firmly, sword raised in front of Shio Fen.
"Mifa, it's futile. Step aside."
"I will not! "
Shio Fen spoke softly.
But Mifa replied resolutely as she stood her ground.
"Little girl, you seem more to have more backbone than those elite guard. Perhaps, if you live, you might reach my level someday."
"Offering Shio-sama's life to save my own—what value would that have?! "
"Good grief. Then die."
Vogue's strike was genuine.
There was no mistaking it—a serious, deadly blow.
And yet…
"You deflected that?"
Vogue exclaimed in surprise.
He knew Mifa was using a one-handed sword.
He planned to strike down both her sword and her shoulder with a single blow.
But Mifa perfectly aligned her sword with his strike, redirecting its force.
The concept wasn't difficult.
But against a strike so fast it was nearly invisible, raising her sword to deflect it demanded immense courage.
Any mistake would mean death.
The Princess's Guard had attempted the same but failed.
Each one falling.
Vogue leaped backward, creating distance.
Mifa didn't pursue.
Her strategy was simple.
Buy time.
Buy time until her master, Abel, returned.
If her opponent kept his distance and time passed, that would be ideal.
And if he initiated conversation, even better…
"Little girl, tell me your name."
"Mifa."
She replied tersely.
She knew a longer response would buy more time…
But she didn't have the luxury to think that far ahead.
"Hmm…Mifa. I remember now. You're Mogok's daughter, the maid who's to accompany the princess to Darwei."
"Yes."
Even as they conversed, Mifa remained on high alert.
She had barely managed to deflect his last strike, but it had been close.
She wasn't confident she could react to his incredibly fast strikes…
"Even so, it's a shame. At your age, no one in all of Bosuntar could deflect my strike like that. Seriously, with time, you could reach my level. So, what do you say, will you sheath your sword?"
"If you…Lord Vogue, sheath your sword and leave this palace, I will immediately."
"That's impossible. I have a promise to fulfill: to kill the princess."
"…A promise?"
Mifa muttered, puzzled by Lord Vogue's words.
"Oops, I've said too much. If you're determined to protect the princess, then I'll say no more. Die here."
"I won't die! "
Vogue charged forward like a black gale, swiftly closing the distance in an instant.
Thrust, thrust, thrust, and a sweeping slash.
Mifa dodged, parried, dodged again, and deflected the sweeping slash downward.
Her defense was flawless.
Normally, after deflecting downward, she should have immediately followed up with an upward slash, but Mifa didn't have the luxury to do so.
Though she parried all of Vogue's attacks, she couldn't even manage a counterattack to keep him in check.
The difference in their abilities was undeniable.
(I knew that from the beginning! )
She would not lower her head now.
She would not kneel now.
She would not…despair now!
She would protect Shio-sama.
For that reason alone, Mifa stood her ground.
That resolve was not lost on Vogue, who stood before her.
"How amusing. No, this is far too entertaining. To think that someone as small as you could hold me back."
Vogue said with a laugh.
But then, as if remembering something, his expression briefly turned serious.
"No, it's foolish to judge by age or gender. I remember a time when I killed someone who mocked me as a brat. Dangerous thinking, dangerous indeed."
"You can afford to let your guard down you know."
"Hah! Even at your age, you're playing mind games?"
Vogue grinned as he responded to Mifa's words.
Mifa meant what she said from the bottom of her heart.
If Vogue let his guard down, it would buy her more time.
And there was even the faintest chance she could find an opening for a counterattack.
Opportunities could arise from the most unexpected places.
Again and again.
Mifa deflected Vogue's relentless attacks.
However, small cuts began to accumulate on her body.
(Is his sword getting faster? No, my responses are getting slower.)
Mifa understood why the number of cuts was increasing.
Her right arm was starting to go numb—just a little, but enough to make a difference.
She was deflecting perfectly.
That was true.
Vogue's strikes were diverted in directions far from their original intent upon impact with her sword.
But every deflection required her blade to meet his.
Even for an instant, and even though most of the force was diverted, the strain on her arm was not zero.
That accumulated strain had manifested as numbness in her arm.
Mifa wielded a one-handed sword.
And being right-handed, she used her right hand to hold it.
Though she had trained in techniques to fight with a dagger in her left hand…
Against someone like Vogue, she couldn't manage to focus on using her left hand as well.
Mifa had understood that before the battle began and had already dismissed the idea of relying on her left hand.
(Still…I can still fight! )
It was a confirmation of her resolve.
She was acutely aware of the overwhelming gap in their abilities.
She understood the strain on her arm.
But even so!
She could still fight!
However, the breaking point came suddenly.
Clang!
"Ah!"
A sharp sound rang out as Mifa's sword was knocked away.
Vogue had noticed the numbness in her arm and targeted her weapon itself.
Just like in her first sparring match with Abel…
"Not yet! "
She lunged forward, brandishing a dagger in her left hand.
"Too naive! "
Vogue deflected the thrust of her dagger with his black sword held in one hand and stepped in closer.
He struck her abdomen with his free left fist.
"Ugh!"
Mifa staggered back and collapsed.
With a single blow, her ability to fight was taken away.
"You weren't bad. I don't hate that final act of defiance. But…"
Vogue spoke as he walked toward her leisurely.
"You were just a bit too early to face me. Don't worry. I'll kill the princess right after you, so you can meet her in the afterlife."
Though she couldn't stand, Mifa glared at Vogue with all her might.
If looks could kill, she would have slain him on the spot.
But reality was not so forgiving.
Vogue raised his sword.
Even in that moment, Mifa continued to glare at him.
"Die."
Just as Vogue was about to bring his sword down…he sensed something and turned around.
He intercepted a flying sword without hesitation.
Then, a red light surged in through the doorway.
Clang!
A man wielding a glowing crimson magic sword clashed with Vogue.
"Mifa, you held out well."
"Master…"
"Leave the rest to me."
The man, Abel, who had burst into the scene, nodded to her.
-x-X-x-
"Seems like you've been kind to my apprentice."
"The master of that little girl, huh? You're stronger than she is, at least."
The clash of swords between Abel and Vogue was fierce.
This wasn't just a battle but a way to gauge each other's strength.
Ordinarily, when you don't know your opponent's power, you approach cautiously.
But these two jumped straight into combat.
At this point, neither would allow the other to retreat and reset their stance.
Backing down would only give the other an opening to press the attack.
They continued their intense fight, gathering information about each other with every exchange.
"Hey, Red. I'll ask for your name, just out of courtesy."
"Hey, Black. They say the universal courtesy when asking someone's name is to introduce yourself first."
Abel, wielding a crimson-glowing magic sword, was called 'Red', while Vogue, with a black sword, was 'Black'.
In the end, neither gave their name.
The battle of offense and defense raged on, each action countered by the other.
Strength, speed, skill—all were nearly equal.
"You're strong, Red."
"You're not bad yourself, Black."
When neither gives their name, this is what it comes to.
"Red, did you show up just as that little girl was about to die on purpose?"
"Idiot, of course not! You guys attacked the main gate, so I had to deal with that first. Don't you even know your own strategy?"
"I know the plan. That's why I thought targeting the princess directly would make things easier. Turns out it's more trouble than I expected."
"That's just your lack of skill, Black."
"Shut up."
Though their words were casual, the intensity of their swordplay hadn't lessened from the start.
"Wow…"
Having drunk a potion to heal her minor wounds, Mifa murmured in awe.
"Lord Vogue is the current 'Sword of the Nation'. He's even rumored to be the strongest in history…though his personality is said to be problematic."
Princess Shio Fen replied to Mifa's muttering.
"So he's the greatest swordsman in this country's history?"
"Then what kind of person is Abel-dono, who's fighting him as an equal…?"
"My master is amazing."
"Y-Yes…I admit that."
Mifa's confident declaration made the princess slightly taken aback.
Either way, the two could only watch.
Many of their movements were too fast to follow.
The swordplay between Abel and Vogue was on an incredibly high level.
"Hey, Red. That old man at the main gate—you didn't really take him down in such a short time, did you?"
"Hey, Black. Not trusting people's words is a sign of a small mind. You've just exposed your own small-mindedness."
"You little…!"
The exchange of sharp words seemed to favor Abel.
That's likely because he often engages in charming conversations with a certain water-attribute magician.
Yes, charming?
Definitely charming!
"The old man at the main gate you're referring to must be Feo Xu-dono. I took him captive."
"…You really did crush the main gate attackers before coming here?"
"I told you. Why don't you believe me?"
"The old man commanded over a hundred soldiers in that assault. Saying you subdued them so quickly is hard to believe."
"You took out about twenty of the princess's guards alone…didn't you? It's not that different."
"Those were uncoordinated royal guards, not soldiers led by Feo Xu, the 'Shield of the Nation'…"
Even if Feo Xu was past his prime, Vogue knew him well.
In swordsmanship, Vogue might far surpass him.
But when it came to commanding troops, Vogue couldn't hold a candle to Feo Xu.
"Feo Xu-dono probably intended to lose from the start."
"What?"
"He likely regretted not stopping this outrageous attack on the princess. That's my guess."
"Hmm. I don't get it."
Vogue frowned slightly, shaking his head at Abel's explanation.
"Black, why are you even a part of this?"
"For the money, of course."
"Money?"
"Yes, money."
Vogue answered nonchalantly.
"You…with sword skills like yours, the country must have given you a decent position, right?"
"Yeah, I'm called the 'Sword of the Nation'. The highest-ranking swordsman in this country."
Vogue replied with a touch of pride.
"Then why…why would you…"
Abel couldn't understand why the nation's top swordsman would be part of such an outrageous act.
The country wasn't in shambles, it still had royalty, governance, and a population not struggling excessively…
From the outside, it appeared to be an ordinary nation.
As the recognized top swordsman, Vogue should have been well-treated.
"I just want more money, that's all."
"If you go this far for money, you'll have to leave the country."
"Yeah. Once I get the money, I'll flee abroad."
"You'd go that far for money?"
"Swordsmen don't have long prime periods. We have to earn while we can. I don't think that's strange."
"It's not strange, but your methods are wrong."
"That's a matter of perspective."
At Abel's criticism, Vogue smirked.
He didn't expect agreement anyway.
Both stepped back from their blade lock, gaining some distance.
"Red, before I kill you, I'll get your name. Mine's Vogue."
"I'm Abel of the Knightley Kingdom."
Since Vogue gave his name first, Abel followed suit.
Adding Knightley Kingdom was a spur-of-the-moment choice.
He quite liked the ring of 'Abel of the Knightley Kingdom'.
However, upon hearing this, Vogue scowled.
"The Knightley Kingdom…that's the one the bard sings about, right? They say Abel the First, who reunited the kingdom, was a swordsman wielding a crimson magic sword. Hey, don't tell me…you're that Abel?"
"General Feo Xu mentioned it as well…do you people really pay that much attention to a bard's songs?"
"Of course! When it's Wan'a Shi, the bard said to be the best in the Eastern Countries, people flock to listen. Songs like 'The King of Adventurers' and 'The Duke of Rondo', set during the Kingdom Liberation War, are really popular."
"O-Oh…I didn't know that…"
Abel was stunned to learn that songs about him had spread to faraway lands.
At the same time, he was embarrassed…
He resolved that, from now on, he'd introduce himself simply as 'Abel'.
"To think I'd get to kill the famed King Abel…I'm a lucky man."
"King Abel isn't going to die so easily."
Vogue laughed, but Abel shook his head slightly in denial.
Even as they spoke, both of them moved.
Circling each other, counterclockwise, drawing a wide arc…
And then, they struck at the same time.
Vogue brought his sword down in a powerful slash.
Abel parried it, redirecting the blade to the side.
In the same motion, he delivered a diagonal slash aimed at Vogue.
Vogue retreated lightly, avoiding the strike.
Without hesitation, Abel lunged forward with his left hand, thrusting his blade.
Vogue deflected it with his sword, spun around, and swung horizontally.
But that spin was a trap.
By turning, Vogue inevitably lost sight of Abel for a moment.
In that instant, Abel closed the distance.
And slipped into Vogue's blind spot, continuing to move within it.
Stab.
With a swift motion, Abel thrust his sword into Vogue's back…
However, in the next moment, Abel abruptly canceled all movement and leaped away from Vogue.
He ran toward the doorway, positioning himself between the door and Princess Shio Fen.
Clink, clink, clink, clang…!
From beyond the open door, five thin spear-like talismans flew toward him. Abel deflected four with his sword.
But one grazed his left arm, leaving a wound.
"Dezai! Don't interfere! "
Vogue shouted.
He immediately recognized who had intervened.
"Come now, Lord Vogue. You must hurry and kill the princess. That was the agreement, wasn't it?"
From beyond the door stepped a man in his mid-thirties, wearing a white robe and with long brown hair tied back.
"Dezai-dono…"
Princess Shio Fen murmured his name under her breath.
"My, my, Princess Shio Fen. We've only met once at the Kang Residence, yet you remember me so well."
Dezai said, his lips curling into a malevolent smile.
"For such a simple task as killing a princess to be this troublesome… No, your sisters were easy, but you, Princess Shio Fen, left no openings."
"If that is meant as praise, I am honored."
After a brief pause, she continued.
"Dezai-dono, the last heir of the fallen King Sura of Ide."
"You've figured that much out, have you? Truly, Princess Shio Fen, you are formidable."
Dezai admitted with a smirk.
"By killing you, the kingdom of Bosuntar will fracture and descend into chaos. Moreover, it will incur the wrath of Darwei. Having been humiliated, Darwei will make excessive demands. The factions within Bossuntar, unable to accept them, will grow more aggressive…and the nation may very well collapse entirely."
"Is that your goal?"
"Indeed. The best part is that once you're dead, I won't need to lift another finger. I can simply observe this kingdom's downfall from afar."
Dezai gave an exaggerated bow.
However, Vogue was far from pleased.
"Hey, Dezai! You stole my fun right out from under me!"
"Lord Vogue, you were about to be killed."
"Shut up! I was having the time of my life fighting someone on equal footing. Don't interfere again!"
"Fine, fine… I won't. But…that swordsman probably can't move anymore."
"What?"
"One of my talismans grazed him. Even the slightest scratch can paralyze an ancient dragon. He shouldn't be able to move."
"Hey…"
Vogue exclaimed in surprise at Dezai's words.
While Abel was on one knee, clearly struggling.
"Well, I'll wait until Lord Vogue finishes him off."
Dezai said, closing the door and placing a talisman on it.
Meanwhile, Abel was indeed in pain.
(…The Serenity Necklace is healing my status abnormality, but the paralysis keeps surging back. I've never experienced anything like this before. But…I can't die here.)
"Sorry, Abel. What a nuisance that guy turned out to be. But I need to kill the princess to get paid. So I'll finish you off along with her. Clean and simple."
With those words, Vogue took a step forward.
At that moment, Abel used his glowing crimson magic sword to support himself as he stood.
Though his stance was unsteady and his focus wavered.
He rose to his feet.
"Hey, Desai! I thought you said even dragons couldn't move after getting hit by that thing!"
Vogue shouted, oddly excited.
"That is true…but this is strange. Could he have equipment that resists status effects?"
"Does something like that exist?"
"They do. But such items are on the level of national treasures. I can't imagine a mere swordsman possessing one…"
Dezai muttered, puzzled.
But Vogue grinned widely and said,
"I see."
Vogue was now certain: the man before him was Abel the First.
It was the only explanation.
Yet he simply kept his conclusion to himself.
Instead, he addressed Abel directly.
"Abel, I admire your spirit, but you can't fight anymore. I'll put you out of your misery."
"Ridiculous. Vogue, what you're showing now…is what we call carelessness"
"Heh, bold words. Just saying them in your condition is impressive."
Vogue admitted as he observed Abel, who was barely standing, leaning on his sword for support.
But then, he soon realized.
The fire in Abel's eyes hadn't dimmed.
"You really think you can still fight, don't you?"
Vogue muttered, locking eyes with him.
A faint smile crept across Abel's face as he replied,
"Vogue, let me tell you something. A master…never loses in front of their apprentice."
With those words, Abel shifted his stance, raising his sword.
But it was different this time.
"Reverse grip? What are you planning to do holding your sword like that?"
True to Vogue's observation, Abel had flipped his sword, holding the crimson magic sword in a reverse grip with his right hand.
"Abel, your swordsmanship is orthodox. Holding the blade like that serves no purpose."
"When you're an adventurer, you pick up all sorts of tricks to survive tough spots."
"I've never met a skilled swordsman who wielded their weapon in reverse grip."
"I see. Then today, you'll broaden your horizons."
"Keep dreaming."
Abel was holding the sword in his right hand, but his left hand was hanging slack.
It was numb and couldn't put any strength into it.
(I can't wield the sword with both hands anyway…)
His magic sword, versatile enough to be used with one or two hands, was now at a disadvantage.
Abel wasn't confident it could withstand Vogue's full-force strikes in a standard grip.
However, by holding the sword in reverse, he could brace it not only with his right wrist but with the entire right forearm, allowing him to counter Vogue's attacks more effectively.
Vogue, remaining cautious, tightened his stance.
He respected Abel's skill.
Even though his left arm was numb and could only use his right arm…he wasn't an opponent he could let his guard down against.
"Still, I won't lose."
Vogue said firmly as he charged forward, closing the distance in a heartbeat, and brought his blade down in a powerful strike.
Abel stepped in even closer than usual, using his reverse grip to deflect the blow.
At the same time, he rotated his body clockwise on the spot.
"Sword Art: Zero Rotation—Variant."
Pivoting on his left foot, Abel spun 270 degrees backward, then shifted his weight onto his right foot, completing a 180-degree forward spin. The motion brought Abel to Vogue's right rear flank.
The reversed sword pierced Vogue's right side.
Abel let go of the embedded sword, drawing a dagger from his belt and gripping it in reverse.
Vogue, despite the pain, swung his sword in retaliation.
Abel spun again, evading the strike and maneuvering to Vogue's left side. Using the momentum from his spin, Abel drove the dagger deep into Vogue's left flank.
"Gah!"
Vogue coughed, blood spurting from his mouth as he dropped to his knees.
He stared at Abel, his face contorted with shock.
His expression was one of utter disbelief, as though witnessing the impossible…
The look on his face seemed to convey.
"When holding a weapon in reverse grip…it's all about using rotation…"
Abel murmured, his words faltering as his strength waned. Abel, too, collapsed to his knees.
The sword he had used to steady himself remained embedded in Vogue's body…
With that, Vogue fell forward, his body hitting the ground.
The duel between the two nations' greatest swordsmen—Abel of the Knightley Kingdom and Vogue of Bosuntar—had reached its end.
-x-X-x-
"I never imagined Lord Vogue would be defeated… But it doesn't matter. If I take down everyone, the result remains the same."
Dezai declared boldly.
"I won't let you!"
Standing protectively in front of Princess Shio Fen was Mifa, shielding her with her own body.
Mifa understood all too well—her master, Abel, could no longer move.
There was no point in Abel risking his life to protect Princess Shio Fen only for her to die here.
Moreover, Mifa's very purpose was to ensure the princess's survival.
But then…
The doors to the audience chamber were suddenly blasted open.
"Eh?"
"What?"
Both Mifa and Dezai were momentarily unable to comprehend what had just happened.
"
Rain fell briefly, but only around Dezai. The next instant, he was trapped inside a coffin of ice.
It happened just as Dezai was reaching for a talisman hidden in his pocket.
"Abel!"
Bursting through the now shattered doors was a robed water-attribute magician.
"You're late… you know…"
Abel rasped, his breath barely audible, but a faint smirk played on his lips.
"If you were in trouble, you should've told me through the 'Soul Resonance'. You left it disconnected!"
"Forgot…"
Abel let out another weak laugh in response to Ryo's reproach.
"For now, drink this potion."
Ryo said as he handed Abel a vial.
Finally, with a bit of relief settling over them, they could breathe.
"Ryo-san…"
"Ah, Mifa, you seem unscathed. Based on my sonar scan, you didn't appear to have any major injuries… but are you hurt at all?"
"Umm… no, I'm fine."
Though Mifa didn't understand what sonar meant, she quickly reassured him she wasn't injured.
"Uh, so, you must be Princess Shio Fen?"
"Yes, I am Shio, honored with the title of Princess Fen. You must be Ryo-sama. Please, let me express my gratitude."
"Thank you for the kind introduction. I am Ryo of the Knightley Kingdom. Pleased to make your acquaintance."
While they exchanged formalities, Abel, now bolstered by the potion, stood and approached Vogue's fallen form.
Placing his fingers against Vogue's neck.
"He's alive… persistent bastard."
Abel murmured.
"Is that the man who nearly defeated you, Abel? That black sword is pretty cool."
"That's what you're impressed by? That's Lord Vogue—the kingdom's greatest swordsman."
"I see. Amazingly, you managed to beat someone like that."
Ryo nodded repeatedly.
Murmuring how he wished he could've witnessed such a fight…
"I barely managed it, using a reversed grip on my sword."
"Reversed grip? Is there some advantage to holding a sword that way?"
Surprised by Abel's answer, Ryo tilted his head in curiosity.
He'd seen depictions of reversed grips in manga and anime back on Earth—used with knives or kunai—but he'd never really understood the practical benefit.
Yet here Abel stood, having defeated a powerful enemy with such a technique.
"My left hand was numb. I had no choice but to rely on my right hand to block his strikes."
"You could block his strikes with a reversed grip?"
Still puzzled, Ryo walked over to the fallen Vogue and pulled Abel's enchanted sword from his right side.
"…Ugh"
A faint groan escaped Vogue's lips.
"Hey…"
Abel protested at the sight of Ryo's casual handling of the situation.
"Abel, you have potions, don't you? After removing the short sword from his left side, you should treat his wounds with them."
"I'll do it, but… maybe a bit more carefully…"
"It's better to apply or administer potions as quickly as possible. Kenneth mentioned that."
"I, I see…"
While Ryo experimented with holding Abel's sword in a reversed grip, Abel removed the short sword from Vogue's left side, pouring half a potion onto the wound and forcing the rest down his throat.
"Ah, I see. If you lift your pinky and ring finger slightly and adjust your wrist angle, you can support the blade with your entire forearm."
Ryo remarked, moving both the sword and his arm experimentally.
"Exactly. If you keep your arm close to your body and lock your elbow, you can withstand even powerful two-handed strikes. From there, your movements naturally incorporate your legs and waist rotation."
"I used to think the only advantage of a reversed grip was how it helped deliver more force into a stab… but you figured out this use during battle?"
"Not really. It's wisdom I picked up from the Archipelago Region."
"Huh?"
Ryo tilted his head again, puzzled by Abel's unexpected reply.
"There's a book I read there called 'Knife Fights on the High Seas'. It mentioned this technique."
"Ah! Wasn't that a book you borrowed from Captain Dao? That makes sense. Sailors do sometimes wield knives with a reversed grip."
"Exactly. Plus… I had an earlier experience fighting someone who used reversed grips and dual swords."
Abel recalled his past battle with San, the leader and swordsman of the A-rank party 'Five Dragons' from the Knightley Kingdom.
Back then, Abel's party, the 'Crimson Sword', clashed with the 'Five Dragons'.
Abel was confronted by San, who used his own sword style.
San's unconventional fighting style, using a reversed grip and dual blades, had bewildered Abel.
But that encounter had made him stronger.
"Experience expands your arsenal. For an adventurer, a wealth of techniques is a treasure—and a lifeline."
"True. In that sense, this battle might also benefit you someday."
"You're right."
Ryo nodded and said repeatedly, and Abel also agreed.
After all, one never knows when—or how—past experiences might prove invaluable.
"Dammit…"
Lying on his back on the floor, Vogue appeared to have recovered enough to speak, thanks to the potion.
"Vogue, you've lost."
"I know that. I admit it…"
Abel declared, and Vogue replied, accepting his defeat.
"That swordsman—once he recovers, won't he try to escape? Should I encase him in ice?"
"With those injuries. Even a potion won't fully heal him."
Ryo suggested, and Abel shook his head, dismissing the idea.
But Vogue himself seemed perplexed.
"Encase in ice?"
Turning his head, Vogue finally noticed Dezai, frozen solid in ice nearby.
"Wait… Is that guy…frozen?"
"Yeah. Ryo here suggested we do the same to you, just in case."
"No, wait. Hold on, hold on! If I get frozen like that, I'll die!"
Vogue protested in a panic.
His reaction was understandable.
After all, Dezai was encased in ice, utterly immobilized.
"No, he's probably not dead. Right, Ryo?"
"Yes, he's alive."
The exchange was lighthearted.
But Abel suddenly voiced a lingering doubt.
"Hey, Ryo. About Dezai—he was pulling out a charm when he got frozen. How did that even work?"
"What do you mean?"
"Well, talismans usually repel magic, right? How were you able to freeze him?"
"Abel, that's an excellent question."
Ryo said with a bright smile.
"Sorcerers launch their talismans, but their effect only activates the moment they leave their fingers."
"Ooh."
"Before that moment, the talismans are still connected to the sorcerer's… soul or something like that. Remember how Duke Helb mentioned it's best not to touch talismans directly? There's a connection, but the talisman's functionality only starts after it's released. That's why I could freeze it beforehand. Both when I saved Sue Ku-san in the city and now."
"Wait, that knowledge…?"
"Yeah. It's from 'Practical Applications: How Talismans and Charms Shape the Future'."
"Just like with my reverse grip, looks like we're both the same, Ryo."
"Tell me about it. Being bookworms has really paid off."
The two nodded repeatedly.
Indeed, books were treasure troves of knowledge.
And that knowledge could save lives.
Both had learned that lesson through experience.
"Wait a second!"
Vogue interjected, breaking into their amicable atmosphere.
"You two are definitely weird."
"How rude! The weird one here is Abel!"
"No, it's Ryo who's weird."
Ryo and Abel both argued against Vogue's remark.
Both seemed convinced that they were perfectly normal.
"I'm not sure about weird, but neither of them seems entirely normal. Don't you agree, Mifa?"
"Shio-sama, I'd rather not answer that question…"
Princess Shio Fen and Mifa whispered to one another, clearly leaning toward Vogue's perspective.
-x-X-x-
Inspectors from the Censorate arrived with specialized enforcers and took both Vogue and Dezai into custody.
In particular, Dezai, being a sorcerer, was fitted with various magic restraints before being transported. Ryo's inquisitive questioning about these devices left a strong impression on Abel.
"He's definitely planning to ask someone from the Censorate about those later."
Abel muttered. Only Mifa, who was nearby, heard his comment.
Mifa wisely responded with a wry smile and said nothing more…
"Abel-sensei, Ryo-sama, and Mifa, thank you very much."
Princess Shio Fen said after the group of four returned to her chambers.
"I only did what was expected."
"Just swept in for the finishing touches."
"Your words honor me…"
As they spoke, the door opened, and a chamberlain entered.
"Your Highness, Sue Ku-sama has arrived to see you."
"Sue Ku-sama? Please show her in."
The princess said, tilting her head in mild confusion.
There had been no prior notice of this visit, hence her puzzled expression.
"Your Highness, I apologize for dropping by unannounced."
"Sue Ku-sama, there's no need for apologies."
The princess reassured her guest as she entered.
In Bosuntar, where they resided, it was customary for individuals of high rank like Sue Ku and the princess to notify each other of visits in advance.
This practice helped avoid unnecessary conflicts and reduced confusion among attendants.
"I'm just relieved to see that you're safe, Your Highness."
"Thank you. It's thanks to Mifa, Abel-sensei, and Ryo-sama. I hear they are currently staying at your mansion."
"Yes. My mansion is quite the treasure trove of talent at the moment."
Sue Ku said with a laugh.
Her smile soon faded, replaced by a somber expression.
"Truthfully, my visit pertains to the recent attack."
Sue Ku began, proceeding to recount everything she had witnessed at the Kang estate.
The details left not only the princess but also the other three stunned.
"A puppet spell…"
"I've seen a star-shaped magic circle on someone's chest before, but that one greatly enhanced their combat strength. There seem to be many variations."
"You've seen one before?"
"What are you talking about? You saw it too, Abel."
Abel asked, surprised, and Ryo replied in dismay.
The difference in interest between a swordsman and a magician likely explained the disparity in their attention to 'magic circles'.
"It happened when we broke into the embassy, remember? Duke Helb engraved it on his men."
"Oh, that's right!"
Abel exclaimed, recalling the incident.
However, he quickly noticed the others' shocked reactions.
"Ah, um, 'broke into the embassy' is a bit of an overstatement."
"Yes, we merely entered through a missing door and had a brief discussion."
Abel and Ryo attempted to downplay the situation.
"…I see. Well, I'm going to pretend I didn't hear that. So, Duke Helb, that's the younger brother of Grand Duke Atinjo, a formidable sorcerer from the southern continent. Now that I think about it, you two had a letter of introduction from him, didn't you?"
"Yeah. Duke Helb is indeed a powerful sorcerer. Compared to him, the one who attacked us this time wasn't as strong."
"Perhaps because you didn't let him do anything…"
Sue Ku noted, Ryo nodded, and Abel muttered, though no one heard him.
"The sorcerer this time… it seems that the only way to break the puppet spell on Duke Kang is for Dezai to die… But… can't Dezai undo the spell himself? If it's a spell he placed himself, wouldn't he be able to lift it?"
Mifa asked, raising an obvious question.
"Puppet spells are deeply etched onto the target's soul, so even the caster cannot undo them."
Sue Ku explained, shaking her head.
"Perhaps I should have killed him instead of freezing him…"
Ryo muttered, furrowing his brow.
"But then we wouldn't be able to uncover the forces behind this. Even if he infiltrated Duke Kang's inner circle, could Dezai really have pulled this off alone? For example, even hiring someone like Vogue— who claimed that money was everything, but could Dezai really have managed with just the funds he could access?"
"Didn't he use Duke Kang's money?"
"To some extent, yes…"
Ryo and Abel carried on their discussion.
When a major incident happens, investigating the background is crucial.
"The Censorate is directly under His Majesty's authority. Once they take over, Dezai will face rigorous interrogation."
Sue Ku noted, prompting Abel and Ryo to exchange glances.
For them, 'rigorous interrogation' evoked thoughts of torture.
Despite having no direct experience with it…
"Given the gravity of this case, Dezai's execution is certain…"
"It'll likely be carried out in a few months."
"Hmm. Which means Duke Kang won't be freed from the puppet spell for several months…"
Both Princess Shio Fen and Sue Ku frowned.
Even under the rule of law, this was a bitter pill to swallow.
After discussing various matters, they decided to adjourn for the day.
Of course, Sue Ku, Mifa, Abel, and Ryo were all staying at Sue Ku's residence.
Two days later.
The Censorate conducted interviews with the four involved.
The questioning took place at Sue Ku's mansion.
Following a similar session with Princess Shio Fen the day prior, so the inquiry was largely a formality.
Though one of the four seemed particularly keen on asking numerous questions…
This individual, known to wear a robe and wield water-attribute magic…
"Ryo, you definitely bombarded the interrogator with a mountain of questions and gave them a hard time, didn't you?"
"What are you saying, Abel? That's an outrageous accusation! I only asked Boffo-san a little bit about the device for sealing magic power."
Boffo-san was the person in charge of Ryo's questioning.
Considering he had also handled Ryo's previous interrogation, it seemed he might have been unofficially recognized within the Censorate as 'Ryo's handler'.
"Didn't you also say you wanted to see the documents about those devices later?"
"Uh…w-well, I did say that… But it can't be helped! Intellectual curiosity is a privilege granted to humanity. The desire to know what one doesn't know is what drives the progress of society!"
Ryo deliberately elevated the discussion to a grandiose level to divert the point.
It was one of Ryo's favorite tactics.
"I don't care about the progress of society. Stop causing trouble for people."
But Abel wasn't having any of it.
"Well, in any case, they said they couldn't share details about how the devices work."
"To prevent misuse?"
"Exactly. Apparently, they're alchemy tools, not related to sorcery, which makes them all the more fascinating to me…"
"Come to think of it, there's similar alchemy tool in the kingdom. It's true, it would be bad if they were misused."
Ryo was startled by this offhand remark.
"They exist in the kingdom?! Why didn't you tell me about this?"
"Well… I figured Kenneth would've mentioned it to you."
"He hasn't!"
"He probably thought it would be a disaster if you found out…"
"When we return to the kingdom, I'll abuse my authority as the Premier Duke to procure and examine them!"
"Hey, don't do that…"
The Premier Duke announced his misdeeds, and the king tried to stop him.
"But you're curious too, aren't you, Abel?"
"About what? Not really, I'm a swordsman…"
"Would combat arts or sword arts still work while wearing magic-sealing device?"
"Hmm… Now that you mention it, I am curious."
The Premier Duke's persuasion managed to sway the king.
Chaos in the kingdom reached its peak!
"That said, who knows when we'll be able to return to the Knightley Kingdom. Next time I go to the Censorate, do you want to come along, Abel? You could try wearing the magic-sealing device to see if your techniques and skills still work."
"…I'll think about it."
-x-X-x-
Three weeks had passed since the attack on the Detached Palace.
The capital, Jonjon, was at peace.
In particular, the Sue Ku residence could be called the heart of that peace.
"Pierce!
The chant of Ryo echoed through the garden.
The sound of all the lances being deflected by a sword followed.
"Not yet! Pierce again!
The doubled number of icy spears were once again deflected by the sword.
"Well done. Let's take a short break."
"Yes…thank you…"
Ryo's words were met with a breathless reply from Mifa.
It was a slightly modified version of Mifa's training routine.
"To be able to deflect 32 of Ryo's icicle lances isn't bad at all."
"Thank you!"
Praised by Abel, Mifa, though unable to hide her fatigue, bowed happily.
"Not bad? That skill would put you in the top three of the Rune Knights! If you insist on using a one-handed sword… parrying and deflecting techniques are a must."
"To be ranked among the top three in the Rune Knights, the elite of the Kingdom!"
Ryo's words made Abel nod with delight.
The growth of one's disciple brings the greatest joy to a master.
"Um, what is this Rune Knights you're talking about…?"
While seated in a chair recovering from her exhaustion, Mifa asked a question.
"They're one of the most powerful knight orders in our Knightley Kingdom. A knight order is… well, a combat unit."
"They're people who train daily in the use of swords, spears, and shields to defeat enemies on the battlefield. Compared to adventurers, they are true professionals in combat."
Abel and Ryo explained.
Since Mifa had little knowledge of the central countries, even the concept of knight orders needed explanation.
"To think that I could be strong enough to compare with people like that…"
Mifa asked anxiously.
"You're fine!"
Ryo gave her a thumbs-up with a reassuring grin.
After the gesture, Ryo glanced at Mifa's one-handed sword.
Staring intently.
"Um, Ryo-san?"
"Hey Ryo, you're making Mifa uncomfortable."
Abel said as Mifa and Abel addressed Ryo, who was staring at the sword.
"Oh… is Mifa fixated on one-handed swords because they're the standard in Darwei?"
"Eh…?"
Mifa was startled by Ryo's insight.
"Well, when we were talking at the Censorate's office, Boffo-san mentioned that one-handed swords were standard in Darwei, right? Since you'll be heading to the court there as Princess Shio Fen's lady-in-waiting, if something happens and you need to fight by seizing an enemy's weapon, it's likely to be a one-handed sword… so, it's better to get used to wielding one now, isn't it…?"
"Yes, that's exactly correct."
Mifa nodded, wide-eyed with surprise, confirming Ryo's deduction.
Ryo nodded several times but stopped when he glanced at Abel.
"Abel doesn't seem surprised at all. Did you already know?"
"I didn't know, but I guessed it might be something like that."
"Ugh… is that why you're acting so smug?"
"I don't think I'm being smug."
For some reason, Ryo responded irritably, while Abel chuckled wryly.
"I've heard since long ago that in the area around Darwei… what the central countries call the 'Eastern Lands'— one-handed swords were the standard. So, I thought that might be the reason."
"The power of education… terrifying."
"Well, you could probably grip it with both hands if you really tried… but compared to a bastard sword, it's short."
"The length, weight, and grip of a sword are determined by how it's meant to be used. It's never arbitrary. Weapons are a matter of life and death. For your own life, for the lives of those you must protect, and… for the lives of your enemies. Every aspect, from length to weight to thickness, is honed for functionality. That's the essence of weapon design."
Both Ryo and Abel used swords.
However, the design of their swords differed.
Length, weight, balance, and even the grip varied.
All of these characteristics had a purpose behind their specific measurements.
"Mifa, you're dedicating everything to protecting Princess Shio Fen, aren't you?"
"Yes, Master."
With a gentle gaze, Abel confirmed, and Mifa nodded firmly.
That was the unshakable core of Mifa's being.
"All right! Let's continue the training. Endurance directly translates to survival chances. Let's give it our all, Mifa."
"Yes! Please guide me!"
At Ryo's urging, Mifa stood and walked to the center of the garden.
Watching this, Abel remarked.
"Hearing that from someone like Ryo, who's practically a pillar of endurance, is convincing."
"Those who remain standing to the end are the ones who survive. It'd be tragic to say you couldn't block an enemy's attack because you were too tired to move."
"True enough. All right, I'll join in too. Ryo, send some of those icy lances my way."
Saying this, Abel rose from his chair and headed toward the garden's center.
"Huh? You're joining in, Abel?"
"Yeah. Why not?"
"Of course, but… let's make your lances sharp instead of blunted."
"No, please don't. That would kill me if I mess up…"
"Really? Then let's start you at 256 lances."
"That's… impossible…"
Meanwhile, in the reception room of the Sue Ku residence, Sue Ku and Director Mogok were having a discussion.
Incidentally, Director Mogok had come from Mifasoshi with his wife to see Mifa off as she accompanied Princess Shio Fen on her journey.
"The Princess's departure is in three days. We've managed to uncover some of the connections behind the Dezai incident before then."
"Yes. But… as expected, the ones funding Dezai were…"
"Indeed… it's the fallout from the struggle for the next emperor's throne in Darwei. We couldn't identify which of the three princes is involved, though."
Director Mogok and Sue Ku both frowned.
Their investigation within the borders of Bosuntar hadn't been able to pinpoint which of Darwei's three princes vying for the throne had provided funding.
Naturally, Dezai had died during the investigation.
An apparent suicide in prison…
"It was staged as a suicide, but there's a high likelihood…"
"It was a silencing measure."
Sue Ku speculated, and Director Mogok nodded in agreement.
The recent suicide had reportedly thrown the Censorate into considerable turmoil.
"If I recall, Darwei has been in disorder ever since the death of the Crown Prince, the first prince…"
"Exactly. Afterward, the three princes rose to the rank of imperial heir, but the fact that no new Crown Prince has been appointed suggests even the Darwei Emperor is uncertain."
"The second prince, the third prince, and the fourth prince… So does this mean that the fifth prince, the sixth prince, or others not elevated to imperial heir rank are…"
"Yes. They're not considered candidates for the next emperor. Of course, if they are later elevated to imperial heir, it could open the possibility… however, most would view it as too late by then. They likely have no real chance."
"Well, if they lack prospects, powerful supporters won't rally behind them."
Sue Ku let out a heavy sigh.
Darwei is a vast and powerful empire.
Its emperor wields immense authority.
For those aspiring to the throne, no action is too extreme.
Defeat in such a struggle often means forfeiting one's life.
More often than not, the new emperor would order the loser's death.
"To think her life would be threatened even in her homeland for marrying the sixth prince, who is outside the succession struggle…"
"It's disheartening, though perhaps inevitable."
Both Sue Ku and Director Mogok admired the intelligence and grace of Princess Shio Fen.
Neither wished to see her ensnared in a power struggle…
Yet they knew there was little they could do.
They understood that well.
"At the very least, I hope her attendants, including Mifa, can offer her solace."
Sue Ku's words drew a nod from Mogok.
The next evening.
In the garden of Sue Ku's estate, a mock battle was taking place between Abel and Mifa.
Seated on chairs around the garden were not just Ryo as usual.
But also Sue Ku herself, along with Mifa's parents, Director Mogok, and his wife.
Today marked Mifa's final day of training.
"That's enough for now!"
Abel called an end to the training.
Mifa was out of breath.
Today had been a grueling day of consecutive battles, culminating in a full-force mock duel with Abel.
Naturally, she was exhausted.
Still, Mifa sheathed her sword, and stood upright.
And bowed deeply to Abel.
"Thank you very much!"
Her voice was hoarse, but the gratitude in it was unmistakable and heartfelt.
"Mifa, you've done well."
Abel's gaze was gentle.
"I've taught you everything I can for now. Of course, the path of the sword is long and endless. I'm still on my own journey. So keep practicing diligently."
"Yes."
"Oh, right."
As Abel spoke, Ryo appeared from behind him.
Holding something in both hands.
Abel took the object and extended it toward Mifa.
"This is my gift to a departing disciple. Please take it."
"This is…"
What Abel handed her was a long dagger.
Too short to be called a sword, yet longer than what one might imagine as a dagger.
A blade 59 centimeters in length.
"According to the Censorate, this length is permissible for personal protection in the Darwei Imperial Palace. While it can't be carried during ceremonies, it's allowed in the palace with the proper approval. Princess Shio Fen has agreed to submit the necessary paperwork for you."
"With this, I will protect the Princess…"
Mifa accepted it, tears streaming down her face.
Abel looked slightly uncomfortable.
He wasn't good with words in such emotional moments.
Mifa's parents stepped in to break the tension.
"Abel-sensei, thank you for guiding Mifa."
"We can't thank you enough. Her skills have improved beyond anything we could have imagined. To see her grow this much is astonishing…"
Director Mogok and his wife expressed their gratitude.
"It's all due to Mifa's own efforts. She will likely feel the peak of exhaustion tonight. So please let her rest thoroughly. Although, given her youth, I'm sure she'll recover by tomorrow after a good night's sleep."
Abel spoke with a gentle smile.
Meanwhile, Mifa remained standing, tears streaming down her face.
Supported gently from behind by her parents.
There was deep familial love in that moment.
After the Mogok family departed, Sue Ku summoned Abel and Ryo to her study.
"The day after tomorrow, Princess Shio Fen will set out for her journey."
Abel and Ryo nodded in acknowledgement.
"Abel-dono, you stayed to oversee Mifa's training. Now that she'll be accompanying the Princess… I assume you'll also head north to Darwei?"
"Yeah. From Darwei, we plan to return to the Central Countries."
Abel's response was firm.
"It would have been easier if you could have joined the Princess's bridal procession, but given the importance of the national undertaking, it was, of course, impossible."
Sue Ku's unreasonable comment elicited wry smiles from both Abel and Ryo.
Although Princess Shio Fen herself might have welcomed the idea… it wasn't feasible.
The bridal procession was to be managed by officials sent from Darwei's central government, in cooperation with Bosuntar's escorts.
"The procession will consist of ten ships, stopping at Darwei's ports as part of the ceremonial journey to the imperial capital, Hanlin. The first stop will be the southernmost port town, Randa…"
Sue Ku explained, pausing to sip tea and moisten her throat.
Before continuing.
"Following the bridal fleet will be a convoy of merchant ships, from Jonjon to Randa. As part of the send-off—a tradition in Eastern countries. There should be room on one of these merchant ships for the two of you."
"Oh!"
Ryo exclaimed in surprise.
"Of course, these merchant ships will conduct trade in Randa before returning here to Jonjon. From Randa, you'll need to make your way north through Darwei on your own…"
"That's fine with me."
"Me too."
Abel and Ryo agreed to Sue Ku's proposal without hesitation.
"I'll prepare identification documents issued by our government. While these should be effective in Darwei's southern regions, I can't guarantee their utility closer to the capital…"
"We'll manage."
"That's reassuring to hear. As for your assets… the money you brought from the Archipelago region—I can convert it into letters of credit for easier transport. In Darwei, you can exchange these in Randa for Darwei-specific credit notes, which can be used to withdraw funds at any bank across the country."
Ryo nodded in agreement to Sue Ku's explanation, but hearing the last part, his eyes widened in astonishment.
"Wait, did you just say bank?"
"Yes, that's what I said."
"What's a bank?"
Ryo asked, Sue Ku nodded, prompting Abel to echo the question.
In the Central and Western Countries, banks didn't exist.
The Adventurers' Guild served as an alternative.
"It's similar to how the Adventurers' Guild manages funds for adventurers, accessible from any branch within the country, but more widely applicable."
"I see. That does sound convenient."
Ryo explained, and Abel agreed, nodding.
Sue Ku quickly deduced that banks were nonexistent in their homeland.
"I'll have someone on your merchant ship handle the necessary procedures for you."
"Is that all right?"
"Of course. The ship you'll be boarding is the Sue Ku. One of my own merchant vessels."
Sue Ku replied with a broad smile.
"So you're not just an administrator but also a merchant. No wonder this mansion is so impressive…"
"I thought you might have been an adventurer in the past."
Ryo remarked, and Abel added.
"Both are true. Using the money I earned during my adventuring days, I started a business separate from my family's holdings. My primary trade is in horses, but I dabble in various ventures."
"Vogue should have followed your example…"
Abel muttered under his breath, unheard by anyone else.
Two days later.
Princess Shio Fen's bridal ceremony was held.
Amid cheers from the citizens of Jonjon, the ten-ship bridal fleet set sail from the port.
Followed by dozens of merchant ships.
Including the Sue Ku, carrying Ryo and Abel.
"At last, we're heading to the superpower, Darwei! I can't wait to see it."
"Let's hope we can pass through smoothly."
Both wore expressions of hope as they looked forward to the journey ahead.
-x-X-x-
Extra
-x-X-x-
The day after Princess Shio Fen's bridal convoy departed from Jonjon, at the Sue Ku residence.
Because Mifa had departed alongside the princess, Director Mogok had come to bid farewell to Sue Ku before returning to Mifasoshi.
Of course, as Sue Ku also served as the deputy governor of Mifasoshi, she would eventually return there as well…
"At any rate, I'm glad we were able to send her off safely."
"Yes. All we can do now is pray that she reaches the imperial capital without incident."
Both Sue Ku and Director Mogok could do nothing more than pray for the journey ahead…
As they were having this conversation, an urgent report arrived.
"Apologies, Director."
"Not at all, please don't worry about me."
Sue Ku opened the sealed letter and gave it a quick read.
"That was faster than expected."
Sue Ku muttered and handed the letter to Director Mogok.
"May I read it?"
"This information will soon reach you anyway."
Acknowledging Sue Ku's words, Director Mogok began reading the letter.
"The civil war in the Ghegish-Lu Federation has ended? The ruler is now the eastern domain lord… And the eastern domain lord was supported by the Grand Duchy of Atinjo, correct?"
"Indeed. In other words, the federation has effectively been absorbed by the Grand Duchy."
"While we anticipated this outcome, I thought it would take six months to a year…"
"Is that your opinion as the Director of the Western Bureau?"
"Yes. Our country's intelligence gathering is adequate, but our analytical capabilities need improvement."
Director Mogok shook his head repeatedly at the miscalculation.
Between the Grand Duchy and the nation of Bosuntar lies the 'Unwavering Forest'.
The depths of this forest are impassable, making it impossible to cross.
Thus, the Grand Duchy's influence would need to come by sea.
Recently, the Grand Duchy placed the Free City of Kwebasa under its protection, turning it into the Autonomous City of Kwebasa.
What's more, Duke Helb, the Grand Duke's younger brother, remains in Kwebasa.
Despite the initial turmoil following the city's transition to autonomy having completely subsided, the duke continues to reside there.
"Duke Helb's continued presence in the autonomous city of Kwebasa is certainly concerning."
"Yes. There's been no report of an unavoidable issue tying him to Kwebasa itself. This suggests the presence of something external… perhaps another nation accessed via the sea or some other significant factor…"
"We must uncover what that is. The Eastern Countries are intrinsically connected to the sea."
To the east of the eastern countries lies an expansive ocean.
No one knows how far it stretches—a vast, mysterious sea.
This ocean extends southward, connecting to a region known as the archipelago region.
To the west, there are legends of it linking to the southern seas of the central countries, but… no one has survived to verify this.
For the most part, such tales are considered myths.
"Speaking of which, there was a report about a Kraken rampaging, wasn't there?"
"Yes, there was. Over the past month, there have been no reports of our nation's ships being sunk… but when something unusual occurs, it is naturally concerning."
"Indeed… it certainly is."