In P5v8, everybody is like “Rozemyne, it’s improper to go unescorted with your former mentor into a closed room, or ride on a (horse) with him! Please think of your reputation!”
Meanwhile Rozemyne, Ferdinand, and Eckhart are like “There are multiple coups going on here! Literally could not give less of a shit. Anyway nothing improper is going on.”
Meanwhile Rozemyne and Ferdinand are treating the mana replenishment hall/ border and/or country gates like a secret rooms, having a heart to heart sitting on the floor, conspiring to make Ahrensbach their own joint personal playground
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Ascendance of a Bookworm (29)
Part 5 Volume 8 Chapter 1Â
This translation is not supposed to replace the official releases of the light novel series and is purely made for my own entertainment. Please purchase the official light novel when it becomes available!
Joining forces
After finishing my discussion with Dunkelfelger and discussing the treatment of Justus and Eckhart with Sylvester, I left Sylvester's office and joined Cornelius, Hartmut, and Lieseletta. Since I wasn’t feeling confident yet that I would be able to walk swiftly with the elegance expected of a young lady, I formed my highbeast and got in. We were in a hurry.
"I have secured Dunkelfelger's assistance. We are leaving tonight.” I declared, before asking, “Oh, and before I forget, do you know what became of the archducal family meeting?"
Cornelius nodded and quickly explained, “Florencia required all the attendants and knights in attendance to sign a magic contract that prohibits them from further spreading the confidential information you accidentally spilled in the spur of the moment. As people were signing the contract, we received an ordonnanz from Aub Ehrenfest relaying that you secured Dunkelfelger’s assistance and would be leaving for Kirnberger at midnight and that he would be leaving for the Royal Academy at once. I presume something else happened on your end?”
I nodded, "I shall explain the details later, but it's not bad news."
It would be foolish to discuss the arrival of Justus and Eckhart right here in the hallway. After skillfully preventing Cornelius from making any further inquiries with a smile, I turned my gaze to Hartmut, who was walking on my other side.
“Hartmut, please inform my guard knights to gather in my room at once.”
“I presume you wish to hold a strategy meeting?” Hartmut asked with a calm and collected face. “I have already contacted everyone. I informed them time is of the essence, so even those who were stationed at the temple should be arriving about now. I told Roderick and Philine to stay as they are.”
Somewhat taken aback by his efficiency, I involuntarily did a double take at Hartmut.
"...w-well done."
“I am glad to be of use to you, Lady Rozemyne.”
As Hartmut had predicted, everyone was already there when I returned to my room. However, it did not escape my eye that the knights who had rushed over from the temple still seemed slightly out of breath.
“Um, Lady Rozemyne. Hartmut informed us there was some kind of emergency…”
"Yes,” I said. “I know this comes rather suddenly, but I'm going to attack Ahrensbach’s foundation tonight.
"……excuse me?"
The situation had changed considerably since this morning. It was not something I could have predicted either, so their reaction was to be expected. I quickly explained the current situation to those who hadn’t attended today’s meeting. That Ferdinand lay collapsed in Ahrensbach’s replenishing hall, that Georgine would likely use this opportunity to invade Ehrenfest, that I would be going to Ahrensbach tonight to rescue Ferdinand, that I secured Dunkelfelger’s assistance with the help of Sylvester, and that Justus and Eckhart had arrived at the Royal Academy and would join us later.
There was no denying it, this was an emergency. As everyone's face tightened, I started giving instructions. There was little time until departure.
"First of all, for my attendants, I ask that Lieseletta and Gretia accompany me to my Library. Ottilie and Bertilde, please stay here and pack my highbeast-riding clothes, shoes, and any feystones and magic tools in this room I might need. Also, since I shall be taking dinner and a nap at my library, please arrange to move my personal chefs as well.”
“Lady Rozemyne, how many people shall be having dinner at the library tonight?” Ottilie asked. “I believe it would be wise to prepare extra ingredients as well……”
As I looked around and started counting, Lieseletta quickly stepped in.
“Ottilie, please pack as many ingredients as possible. I shall check with the chefs at the library. If it turns out we don’t have enough, I shall contact Lady Elvira. It seems Lord Eckhart shall be returning, so I’m certain she will be happy to cooperate."
Ottilie and Lieseletta had quickly divided the work between them. So, I moved on.
"When you are done, I would like you to assist Florencia, Charlotte, and Brunhilde to collect information and prepare for Georgine’s invasion.”
"Understood," Ottilie smiled. “Better not waste any time then”, and immediately got to work. Bertilde, yet unaccustomed to my reckless behavior, hurried after Otillie in a fluster.
“Then, Lady Rozemyne,” Lieseletta asked. “Would you like Gretia and me to go to the library and assist Lasfam with the preparations to receive our guests?”
"Yes, indeed,” I replied. “You are very perceptive, Lieseletta. Eckhart and Justus shall be having dinner with us and taking a nap as well. I will leave the preparations to you."
"Understood. Since there is little time, we shall go ahead,” Lieseletta said, then added, “Oh, and please don’t accidentally send all your retainers off on errands. Be sure to keep a guard knight to accompany you to the library.” before leaving the room with Gretia.
"Hartmut and Clarissa, I would like you to distribute the magic tools and rejuvenation potions you have made so far, and after that..." I began, but I was interrupted by Clarissa.
"Please rest assured!” she enthusiastically declared. “We have prepared enough magic tools and rejuvenation potions to last us. So, we can leave at any time. Once we have distributed everything, Hartmut and I shall take turns to take a nap."
Setting aside Clarissa, a scholar of the sword from Dunkelfelger, it surprised me that she thought Hartmut would be included as a member of our invading party as a matter of course.
“It will be difficult for you to manage the magic tools and potions loaded inside your highbeast by yourself,” Hartmut pointed out. “Even more so if you wish to distribute them to Dunkelfelger as well. So, please allow me to tag along, so you may focus on rescuing Lord Ferdinand."
"...I appreciate the offer,” I replied. “But I do not believe this battlefield is a place for scholars to go." As I folded my arms and slightly tilted my head, contemplating whether he would do all right on the battlefield despite lacking any ditter experience, a smile appeared on Hartmut’s lips.
“Oh, do you truly believe that to be the case, Lady Rozemyne?” he asked in an amused tone. “Aren’t you an archduke candidate and a scholar apprentice yourself?”
"Ugh... Time is of the essence, if you slow us down, I will leave you behind!” I declared in frustration, unable to argue with him.
Hartmut smiled calmly in response, “That won’t be a problem since I will be riding inside your highbeast, Lady Rozemyne, to manage the magic tools.”
"Just leave it to us!” Clarissa proclaimed. “…I suppose it’s time to fully demonstrate my true strength. I have traveled from Dunkelfelger to Ehrenfest without rest once before!"
……NOOOO! That’s not something to be proud of!
Since I wanted to increase our stock of antidotes as much as possible before departure, I decided to let Hartmut and Clarissa do as they wanted and sent them off to the library. Then, I looked around at the knights who would be accompanying me to Ahrensbach.
"Laurenz, since you are still a minor, you have a choice,” I said. “Would you prefer to come with me or stay here?"
“I have given my name to you, Lady Rozemyne,” he stated with a bitter smile. “Please do not leave me behind.”
As if on cue, Judith’s hand shot into the air, "I don't want to be left behind either!"
However, as things were, I could not give her permission to accompany me. Knight apprentices were not allowed to work outside the noble’s quarter to begin with. For my sake, Sylvester had made an exception and included the temple to be within their scope of action. He had also given permission to bring them along should I be visiting their birthplaces for work. However, invading another duchy was most definitely not on the list of allowances given.
"Judith, since this is an emergency situation, you will need your father's permission. I cannot bring a minor to fight a battle in another duchy without their parent’s approval.”
"Why! ... I will send him an ordonnanz at once, to get his permission!" Judith exclaimed with teary eyes, before rushing out of the room.
I took this opportunity to give orders to my guard knights.
“I would like all of you to take turns going to the knight’s dormitory to have dinner, take a nap, and prepare for departure. Damuel will be the only adult knight to remain in Ehrenfest.”
My guard knights gave Damuel a surprised look, then gathered to discuss their rotation schedule. Damuel was left to stand on his own. I softly tugged on his cape and handed him a sound-blocking magic tool. Â
"I want you to stay here, because there is something only you can do."
“Lady Rozemyne?” Damuel asked cautiously.
“Please protect my family,” I said. “They are more important to me than anything else in Ehrenfest. Georgine and her lackeys kept contact with the former high bishop. So, there is a chance she knows about my family and their whereabouts in the lower city. She may have realized they are my greatest weakness.”
If one carefully studied the circumstances surrounding my entering the temple, Charlotte’s rescue, my connections in the lower city, my choice of exclusive craftspeople, and my trends, it would be abundantly clear who were the most important people in my life. Considering that Georgine was planning to sneak into the temple and seize the foundation, as the high bishop, I was probably the biggest obstacle in her way. Objectively speaking, taking my family and the Gutenburgs hostage would be the most effective way to block any resistance on my side.
"Damuel, I cannot ask this of anyone else. You are the only one who knows. Please."
“Understood.” Damuel sighed. “… I made the same promise to Lord Ferdinand after all.”
"To Lord Ferdinand?"
As the question left my lips, Damuel gazed into the distance, presumably in Ahrensbach’s direction.
“Before he left for Ahrensbach, he told me I would become the only one who directly knew you from your shrine maiden days.”
Both Sylvester and Karstedt knew that I was a commoner as well, but when I was still an apprentice blue shrine maiden, we had only met face-to-face a few times, not daily. Even though Ferdinand had given them reports on my life in the temple, they likely did not fully understand how much I cared about my family.
“Therefore, he ordered me to protect your heart, Lady Rozemyne,” Damuel continued. “He also told me to keep tabs on Hartmut’s information-gathering activities, to keep him from stepping out of line. A truly unreasonable request, if you ask me."
Damuel looked down at me with a bitter smile. I suddenly realized his face was a lot closer than it used to be. Back in my shrine maiden days, our eye levels had been completely different.
......when we first met, I only reached up to Damuel’s stomach. I couldn’t look him in the eye unless he kneeled.
As the thought crossed my mind, Damuel kneeled before me. Rather than making eye contact, however, I could only see his brown hair.
"I suppose that as your guard knight, I should advise you that staying here in Ehrenfest is the safest option…" Damuel paused for a moment. Then he raised his head and looked me in the eyes. “Take care, Lady Rozemyne. Stay true to your desires and be sure to save Lord Ferdinand. May you have the blessing of the gods.”
"Thank you, Damuel. You are truly a knight of the finest sort."
As Damuel returned the sound-blocking tool and left the room, Cornelius gave me a curious look.
"Where is Damuel off to?"
“He is off to protect my most important things. Damuel is a guard knight too, after all,” I smiled. “Have you decided in what order you will take your naps?”
After confirming the knights' rotation, I headed to the library.
“Lady Rozemyne, I have been waiting for your return. I heard about Lord Ferdinand…”
As soon as Lasfam finished his greeting, he quickly came over to inquire after Ferdinand. He must have heard about it from my retainers who had arrived earlier. Anyone would get anxious upon hearing that their Lord was on the verge of death far away in another duchy, let alone a name-sworn retainer. Until now, I had rarely seen anything but a smile on his face, but today Lasfam’s expression was stiff, his green eyes betraying his inner turmoil.
“I understand your concern, Lasfam. However, I have obtained permission from Aub Ehrenfest to invade Ahrensbach to rescue him, and secured assistance from Dunkelfelger. I also expect Justus and Eckhart to arrive here by sixth bell."
As we walked toward my room, I inquired Lasfam about the status of the preparations.
“Are the guest rooms for Justus and Eckhart ready? The number of people eating dinner here has increased significantly, are there enough ingredients? Have the chefs arrived yet?”
As I rattled off my list of questions, Lasfam assured me the preparations were proceeding smoothly.
"I was hoping to have everything ready before they arrive,” I said, then added, “And if I inquire after the situation in Ahrensbach over dinner, that should leave sufficient time to prepare any additional things we may need.”
"Understood. I will have everything ready by sixth bell."
I noticed the tinge of unease had disappeared from Lasfam's voice. So, I added another task to the list.
“Also, if possible, please contact Eckhart and Justus’ family homes to see if any of their clothes are still left in Ehrenfest. I presume they did not have the chance to bring any.”
Lasfam nodded, “In that case, I shall prepare a change of clothes for Lord Ferdinand as well. He may need it.”
As I entered my room, Lasfam energetically walked off, his mind focused on what needed to be done. Since my retainers were all busy taking care of preparations, I knew I would only get in their way if I started wandering around. So, I decided to do what I could while staying in my room.
First of all, I sent an ordonnnanz to Brigitte in Illgner to inform her that it was highly likely that Ahrensbach would use Ferdinand’s incapacitation to invade Ehrenfest, and that Georgine was likely to operate in the shadow. I also told her about the silver cloth, requested she gather information from the commoners in their province, and reminded her to stay in close contact with the other Giebe.
“Grandfather is ready to provide backup at any moment. If you notice any irregularities at the border, contact us at once.”
Brigitte immediately sent a reply, “We received an ordonnanz from Lady Florencia earlier, but she didn’t relay nearly as many details. I would like to thank you for the additional and valuable information. We shall keep in contact with the other Giebe and ask our citizens to keep an eye out.”
Realizing that the Giebe’s of the border provinces hadn't received much information, I sent an ordonnanz to Florencia telling her, “Please share more details with the border provinces, and request Giebe Gerlach and Giebe Gardun to have their knights tighten their defenses.”
With the ordonnanzes taken care of, I entered my hidden room and searched the book of Mestionora for a map of Ahrensbach. I hoped to learn the location of the border gate and the temple. My efforts were rewarded, as I found a map of the duchy and the blueprint that was used to build the temple, thus learning everything I wished to know.
……it went through hell to get it, but I'm glad I did. It's amazingly useful! Thanks be to the Gods!
I copy-pasted the map and blueprint each onto a sheet of magic paper that Clarissa had prepared, thoroughly pleased with the results of my search. Understanding maps wasn’t exactly my forte. I always had trouble figuring out my current position and the location of my destination, but I was sure that at least one of my knights would be able to read it.
With high hopes, I searched for a blueprint of the castle too, so I might determine the location of its replenishing hall, but unfortunately, nothing popped up.  Since a castle’s floor plan would rarely be revised, about the only opportunity to see a blueprint of the entire castle was when Entwickeln was performed. Maybe it was in the part of the book that Ferdinand had?
“Seriously, why am I missing the most crucial information!?” I grumbled to myself.
There was no point in crying over it. Besides, Justus and Eckhart probably knew its location, so it didn’t really matter. So instead, I decided to copy-paste some magic circles that might come in handy.
After a while, the summoning tool glowed, indicating someone outside wished to speak with me. As I exited my hidden room, Judith reported, “I was told to stay in Ehrenfest.” with a disappointed face. Considering a parent’s feelings, I hadn’t expected anything else.
"If you think that accompanying me to Ahrensbach is the only job expected of my guard knights, you are mistaken. It is also their job to protect the people important to me who I cannot bring with me."
"That's true, but..." Judith’s voice trailed.
Invading another duchy probably seemed like a spectacular job to a knight. The difference in mindset between Damuel, who was working hard on a humble job, and Judith could not be clearer.
“To allow me peace of mind, Damuel has promised to stay behind and guard my loved ones,” I said. “Judith, I want you to work with Damuel to protect the temple and the lower city. My Gutenburgs will be essential if I ever hope to expand the printing industry. They are indispensable to me. Tell yourself, “I shall not allow Georgine in.” Do not compromise on that determination as you protect the temple and Ehrenfest.”
Judith had good eyesight and specialized in ranged attacks. Stationing her at the temple, and having her attack with bug bombs, should give even a noble-born lady like Georgine a good scare. That silver cloth would not protect her.
"Understood,” Judith acceded. “I shall guard the temple.”
As I continued preparing as I saw fit, sixth bell rang. Soon after, Justus and Eckhart arrived. I immediately left my room to welcome them.
“Justus, Eckhart!”
"...L-Lady Rozemyne?"
Seeing me all grown up, Justus froze in place, left at a loss for words. Apparently, Sylvester had not informed them. However, unlike Justus, Eckhart quietly turned his blue eyes to me and softly murmured, “Rozemyne, is that you?” Then, immediately moved on and questioned me on the current state of our preparations.
……Eckhart certainly cares more about whether we can save Ferdinand and how far our preparations have progressed, than my sudden growth. No surprise there.
His lack of reaction was refreshing and reassuring.
“We have already prepared everything you just mentioned,” I told him. “I also acquired Dunkelfelger’s assistance, and we shall leave to rescue Lord Ferdinand tonight.”
“Just as I would expect from my little sister,” Eckhart replied. “It’s clear you were educated by Lord Ferdinand."
Hearing the honest praise and seeing the sparkle of hope in his eyes made me very happy. Eckhart only ever praised me whenever I was exceedingly useful to Ferdinand. In short, I was doing an amazingly good job right now.
"...Aub Ehrenfest said you have some kind of plan. Is that true?"
"Yes, brother,” I answered. “I do have a plan. And with you and Justus here, the odds of success have significantly increased."
My biggest worry was that I didn't know the location of the replenishing hall, but with their help, I should be able to get there without getting lost. Eckhart nodded in reply, “Good.”
“Eckhart, how can you completely ignore how much Lady Rozemyne has changed?” Justus asked, exasperated.
“I do not care how much she changes on the outside,” Eckhart answered. “As long as she still cares about Lord Ferdinand on the inside, I am good.” Showing no interest in the situation whatsoever, he walked over to Lasfam. In his hand, he held a metal cage containing a single name-swearing stone. I guessed it was probably Lasfam’s.
"Even then, doesn’t it intrigue you?"
Unlike Eckhart, it seemed Justus wanted to hear more details about my rapid growth. His brown eyes were gleaming with curiosity, and he started squirming in place. He clearly wanted to know more, but was unsure how to broach the subject in our current state of emergency.
"Lady Rozemyne, what happened to your body?” Justus eventually asked. “I have never heard of anyone growing that much in such a short period of time, and into such a beautiful young lady not to mention."
As Justus slowly approached me, Hartmut slipped between us, saying, "I am glad you asked." His orange eyes were gleaming with anticipation, sending a shiver down my spine.
"I doubt anyone other than Lady Rozemyne shall ever be bestowed the privilege of a miracle like this. It proves beyond a doubt how truly blessed she is by the gods. This was a miracle granted by Anwachs, the god of growth! Please allow me to explain in great detail the workings of this wonderful miracle."
“Certainly, but do stop when Justus gets tired of listening," I said.
I expected even Justus would soon get tired of Hartmut. He was in the habit of looping same-sounding compliments and overreferencing the gods, making his explanations hard to understand. In fact, my closest retainers kept dismissing him, saying, "No thanks, you already told me that before.”
……unfortunately, their evasions only motivate him to come up with new ways to express his excitement, infinitely increasing the number of unnecessary compliments.
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Ascendance of a Bookworm (29)
Part 5 Volume 8 Extra Chapter 2
This translation is not supposed to replace the official releases of the light novel series and is purely made for my own entertainment. Please purchase the official light novel when it becomes available!
Since the title of this chapter contains spoilers,
it has been hidden beneath a "read more" for your safety!
[The Battle for Ehrenfest]
Brigitte - The Battle of Illgner
"This is Helfried. Brigitte, could you please come to my office?"
I tilted my head in wonder as I received an ordonnanz from my brother, Giebe Illgner. Now that I was married to Victor and the paper-making industry was on track, the number of nobles living in Illgner was gradually increasing. As a result, I was rarely called into the office. The last time was when Lady Rozemyne ordered a large quantity of magic paper.
“Does Lady Rozemyne desire more magic paper?” I mumbled, mostly to myself.
"Helfried even sent an ordonnanz,” my mother replied.  “That means it must be urgent, right? I will watch Lilarose for you. Now, don’t make him wait."
My mother smiled and gestured for me to get going. We had been embroidering together in the children’s room. I put my needles and thread away, then looked at my daughter, who was fast asleep in her bed.
"Thank you, mother. I hope Lilarose is a good girl and doesn’t wake while I am away."
I left my one-and-a-half-year-old daughter in the care of my mother and quickly headed to my brother’s office. Just as I arrived, Volk, a former gray priest and trusted aid of my brother, exited the office. Maybe he had heard my footsteps approach?
“Volk, I was called by my brother. May I go in?”
"Of course,” he nodded. “The Giebe is waiting for you. Please come in."
Since Volk had already opened the door for me, I went inside without knocking. I was met by the troubled faces of my husband and brother, who were both reading a letter.
“Brother, what happened?” I inquired.
"It's a letter from Lady Florencia,” Helfried replied. “Apparently, it's been sent to all Giebes."
I accepted the letter and scanned its contents. It informed us that it was highly likely that Lady Georgine of Ahrensbach would be invading Ehrenfest to obtain the foundation, so we were to increase our patrols of the area and contact the castle if we found any suspicious people.
"We received a similar request at the beginning of spring, remember?” Helfried said. “So, we were just wondering how to respond this time."
Last time, we prepared rejuvenation potions in case a battle ensued, but Illgner didn’t have many knights to begin with. Even if they told us to prepare for an invasion from Ahrensbach, there was not much we could do.
“It says it is highly likely, but I don’t get the feeling there is any particular urgency to the request,” Victor remarked. “If Lady Georgine is aiming for the foundation, Illgner holds no value.”
Illgner bordered Ahrensbach only on a small section of land. Although we had acquired some extra funds thanks to the paper-making industry, our land held no strategic value. It was too far from the castle to be used as a base of operations, and most of it bordered Frenbeltag. Attacking Illgner came with the risk of getting Frenbeltag involved as well.
“Besides, if a noble from another duchy crossed the border, the Aub would notice, right?” Victor continued. “Don’t you agree it’s unlikely to cause any issues if we act only once we are notified?”
"For now, I think we should increase the patrols and keep a close eye on the border,” I advised. “How about twice a day? Once during the day and once at night? Personally, I don't think it’s necessary, but I fear we don’t have a choice."
The mana of Ahrensbach’s land seemed to be weakening, and the duchy’s starving commoners often ventured into Illgner’s mountains in search of food. If we were going to keep a close watch on Ahrensbach, we must be wary of its commoners too, and keep them out.
“It is possible the Aub will reprimand us for overlooking certain activities until now,” Volk noted. “I feel sorry for the commoners, but we can’t please everyone. Filling their land with mana is the duty of Ahrensbach’s archducal family and its temple.”
Although Volk grew up in a temple, he was able to cut off the commoners with surprising ease. As we looked at him in surprise, he smiled, looking a little embarrassed.
“It only makes sense that when the situation changes, the treatment of the commoners changes drastically as well,” he explained himself. “It would be in Illgner’s best interest to prioritize the needs of Ehrenfest’s archducal family rather than the wellbeing of another duchy’s commoners. I also believe it would be wise to gather information from the merchants. Lumber traders go all over the place."
Even after discussing things with Victor and Volk, I couldn't think of any options but increasing the frequency of the patrols. Since we wished to prioritize the paper-making industry, our main source of income, it was difficult to maintain a state of heightened vigilance for a long period of time. Especially since we had no idea when and if Lady Georgine would invade the duchy.
"Very well, I shall inform... Â Oh? An ordonnanz."
Just as I was about to head out and give orders to the few knights Illgner had, an ordonnanz flew into the room. I expected it to head for my brother or Victor, but it landed on my arm.
“This is Rozemyne.”
Lady Rozemyne had been so ill that she had been unable to attend the feast celebrating spring, but it seemed she had recovered. Her voice sounded more mature than I remembered. Although I had no proof, I could tell she had grown.
“Lord Ferdinand is hovering on the verge of death due to Lady Georgine’s scheming and we expect her to use this opportunity to invade Ehrenfest. It seems she has already closed in on the border and may act as early as today or tomorrow. At the latest, it will be a few days from now.”
We exchanged worried looks. If Lady Georgine had already closed in on the border, wouldn’t that make this an emergency?  Lady Rozemyne’s message conveyed an urgency that hadn’t been present in Lady Florencia’s letter.  I could also tell how worried she was about us. On top of that, Lady Rozemyne even added some pointers should it come to a confrontation.
"Be very careful when the enemy is dressed in silver-colored clothes. Mana cannot penetrate this cloth. I advise you to carry weapons like the ones that commoners use at all times, since schtappe-made weapons and mana attacks have no effect. It is also possible they will utilize a powdered type of poison. Please cover your mouth with a piece of cloth. Lady Georgine will likely travel by carriage rather than highbeast if she intends to operate in the shadows. Be sure to gather information from your province’s commoners, and keep in close contact with the other Giebe along the border. Grandfather is ready to provide backup at any moment. If you notice any border irregularities, contact us immediately."
After repeating the same message three times, the ordonnanz turned back into a yellow feystone. We stared at the feystone that had warned us of the impending danger in a daze.
"That sounded quite different from Lady Florencia’s letter...”  Victor muttered.
"It would be best to send a patrol out at once,” Helfried concluded. “It sounds like she will be here in a few days at the latest."
“I shall intensify my training so that I may participate in the battle.”
I had resumed training when we were informed of the impending threat in early spring, but I had been absent for a long time due to pregnancy and childbirth, so I was far from my peak fighting strength. Still, we needed as many knights as possible so we might protect Illgner and our families. The more hours of training I had under my belt, the better.
“Brigitte, I understand your enthusiasm, but please send a reply to Lady Rozemyne first,” Victor pointed out. “She likely shared this information with you because you used to be her retainer. Although you are no longer in her service, she is clearly still worrying about you.”
I immediately sent an ordonnanz to Lady Rozemyne to thank her. It reminded me of the days when I served her, and it warmed my heart to know that she still thought of me.
“This is Brigitte. We received an ordonnanz from Lady Florencia earlier, but she didn’t relay nearly as many details. I would like to thank you for the additional and valuable information. We shall keep in contact with the other Giebe and ask our citizens to keep an eye out.”
As I watched the ordonnanz fly away, my brother placed several ordonnanz stones on his desk.
“Brigitte, may I ask you to send the ordonnanzes to the other Giebe as well? The urgency of the matter would be better conveyed if they received it from you, since you directly served Lady Rozemyne.”
Since Lady Florencia's letter did not convey a sense of urgency, our warning might be ignored. However, since I used to serve Lady Rozemyne, they would likely take it seriously if I told them, “I received an urgent message from Lady Rozemyne”.
As I sent the ordonnanzes, the men in the room started discussing our next step. If Lady Georgine might commence her attack as soon as today, where should we start? There were many things to consider.
"It's important to gather information from the commoners,” Victor said. “But shouldn't we first warn those going into the mountains? It will be trouble if they come face-to-face with knights from another duchy."
“We have secured enough food to sustain a siege for a few days and the evacuation site is ready, but please consider how to guide the commoners as well,” Volk added.
"Let's issue a warning to stay away from the mountains near the border until we receive further information about Lady Georgine.” Helfried proposed. “We should have more information within a few days."
I took a deep breath as I realized that the men were only focused on protecting the commoners. While it may be the right thing to do for a Giebe, the knights would not be able to act unless they also considered what came before.
“Brother, I agree that evacuating the commoners is important, but whether Ahrensbach launches a large-scale attack at the border, or stealthily invades with a small number of people to acquire the foundation, will greatly affect the number of knights we must keep on guard duty and send out on patrols. Won't that also impact the number of people available to assist with the evacuation?”
“Brigitte, I understand what you're trying to say,” Victor said while looking at a map of Ehrenfest. “But at this point, we don't know how they are going to attack. If they intend to attack Ehrenfest from Ahrensbach, it is far more likely that they will invade through Gerlach, Wiltord, Garduhn, or Griebel. I doubt they will come all the way out to Illgner.”
If one considered the small stretch of land bordering Ahrensbach, it was certainly unlikely that we would be a target. My brother seemed to have the same idea. However, we could not let our guard down.
"Victor, I understand your point,” I countered. “But Illgner has fewer nobles and a weaker defense. If Lady Georgine is aware, it is possible we may be besieged to create a diversion."
"A diversion... "
“I see,” my brother said. “It seems like Lord Bonifatius is ready to provide aid, but we cannot say with certainty how long it will take for our request to be approved by the Aub, the orders to be issued, and the knights to be ready for departure.”
"Yes,” I agreed. “And on top of that, no matter how fast they fly, it will take them a whole day to arrive. In the meantime, we will be on our own."
As Lady Rozemyne’s former guard knight, I was the one who knew the most about the inner workings of the knight’s order. The more I thought about it, the more I realized how dangerous it would be if Illgner was targeted. Victor seemed to understand the danger we were in after my explanation.
“If prompt discovery and communication are the key, then we should increase the frequency of our patrols.” Victor agreed. “The situation isn’t likely to last more than a few days. If we only increase the patrols near the border, we should be able to achieve it with the bare minimum of people."
My brother nodded, “If our enemy aims to acquire the foundation, they will likely hurry along without slaughtering the commoners. I want you to focus on minimizing the casualties as much as possible and buying time until the reinforcements arrive.”
I immediately headed to the training grounds to inform the knights.
" ...And that's why we must increase our patrols near the border,” I explained. “I shall assist as well. Did last night's patrol notice anything of note?"
"There have been no reports of unusual activities, neither last night nor this morning," the commander of Illgner’s knights assured me. I immediately felt a wave of relief wash over me.
“Lady Rozemyne said to expect movement in the next few days,” I warned. “So, please be careful when patrolling at night. If they are planning to sneak across the border, they will likely act under the cloak of darkness.”
 “It would be helpful if they would stealthily pass through when the commoners are asleep. Then we would only have to inform the archducal family…”
Our knights specialized in hunting feybeasts. Outside of practical lessons at the Royal Academy, they had no experience fighting other people. Besides, there were only fifteen adult knights in Illgner. Even if I included the apprentices and myself, we still had less than twenty people. I completely understood their reluctance to go up against a greater duchy.
“That certainly would be great,” I agreed. “But in that case, they would probably pass through Griebel instead of Illgner. There is no guarantee that the enemy will appear in our province, but let’s stay alert.”
"Indeed,” the commander nodded. “I plan to entrust the real fighting to the reinforcements from the noble’s district. Though, I would like them to hold back on using destructive magic tools if possible."
If our mountains and forests were destroyed, that would greatly impact the paper-making industry. So, avoiding battles that used large numbers of destructive magic tools was certainly preferable.
"Regardless of the enemy’s plans, if you are joining the fight, Lady Brigitte, that will make it easier for us to contact the Giebe. Not to mention, you are a mednoble and thus a valuable battle asset."
It was decided the patrols would focus on the area near the border with Ahrensbach. We were on good terms with Frenbeltag, and Lady Rozemyne had not included them in her warnings, so it was safe to assume we would not be invaded from that side. I accompanied the squads on their rounds, but nothing of note happened that day.
The next afternoon, I and five other knights were out patrolling the border on our highbeasts, when I noticed a change in the scenery.
"Don't you think the shape of that ridge looks different?" I asked as I pointed at the mountain ahead.
I wasn’t quite sure how to put it, but it seemed like an abnormal dip in a part of the tree line, or rather, like an unnatural dent in the gentle curves of the ridge.
"Let's have a closer look."
Sensing something was off, we cautiously approached. As we got closer, I quickly noticed almost all the trees on the opposite side of the mountain, next to Ahrensbach’s border, had disappeared. The bare, reddish-brown soil reminded me of the aftermath of a trombe attack.
“Just what on earth is going on!?” I exclaimed while squinting my eyes to get a better look. At the same moment, more trees disappeared up ahead. As I stared at the empty spot in a daze, unable to comprehend what just happened, two of the knights cried out.
"Look over there! I see people!"
"Those are Ahrensbach's capes!"
Several people could be seen standing atop the center of the reddish-brown soil. When I noticed they were all carrying black weapons, an audible gasp escaped my lips.
"Black weapons can be used to steal mana from dark feybeasts,” I said. “Maybe they can be used to steal mana from the land as well."
Since the archducal family had contacted us, we had mentally prepared ourselves for the possibility of an invasion. However, we had not seen this coming. We had not expected the enemy would try to steal mana from our land, rather than head straight for the foundation.
“If they were just trying to pass through Illgner, we could have watched from a distance,” I muttered in shock. “However, we cannot sit back and watch as mana is stolen from our land and the trees are disappearing before our very eyes.”
If they took our trees, that would greatly affect the paper-making industry. Â Moreover, most commoners relied on the blessings of the mountains for their meals. Not to mention, if it rained, the flow of the rivers could change as well. In the worst case, life in Illgner could be destroyed.
"I count four,” one of the knights said. “Shall we attack?"
"...no.” I shook my head. “Let's head back and request the Aub to send reinforcements. If there are any people hiding out of sight, we will be outnumbered."
Just then, arrows came flying at us. Our enemy was swiftly making way for the tree line while attacking us to keep us at a distance.
"They spotted us! We are under attack!"
"Kill them before they can hide! "
"Mana attacks will be absorbed by their black weapons!” I warned. “Be careful!"
Since the area was already devoid of trees and had turned a reddish-brown hue, there was no issue in using offensive magic tools. We flew overhead and dropped magic tools from above. Two of the intruders disarmed their black weapons and readied their shields.
"Once they disarm their weapons, it will take about a day before they can use the blessing again!” I shouted. “Attack with the intent to make them cancel it and use their shields!"
Without the darkness's blessing, they would not be able to steal mana from the land, at least for today. As everyone readied themselves to attack, a gasp escaped my throat when I detected numerous mana signatures approaching.
“There are more units nearby!” I alerted the others. “I can feel their mana! They are swiftly approaching us!”
The fact was, the unit before us already had the upper hand strength-wise. On top of that, they were about to regroup with other units nearby. It was abundantly clear we were at an overwhelming disadvantage. Try as we might, there was no chance of winning. In fact, we would likely lose our only chance to retreat.
"Don't pursue the enemy!” I shouted. “We shall retreat for now!"
While sending an ordonnanz to my brother to warn him, we returned to the summer mansion.
“Brother, Lady Rozemyne was right! The enemy is here! Not only are they draining the mana from our land, but we are also dealing with a large number of people spread out over a wide area. We cannot deal with it by ourselves. Please request the Aub to send reinforcements."
When I arrived at my brother's office with the commander, he and Victor were already waiting for us with a map of Illgner spread out on the table.
"I immediately sent the request after receiving your ordonnanz,” Helfried replied. “It seems Lord Bonifatius will lead the support unit. However, considering how much damage has been done in such a short period of time, I wonder if Illgner will last until reinforcements arrive. Brigitte, what is your opinion as a knight?”
In this case, simply scattering the enemy would not be enough. It was important that we limit the amount of damage to a level that would not interfere with the lives of Illgner’s people.
“The enemies we encountered were acting in small units, but I could sense mana everywhere around us. Even if we gathered all our knights, I cannot say for certain how long we would be able to stall for time. Neither can I predict how much damage will be done to the land until reinforcements arrive.”
If their sole purpose was to drain mana from the land, we could limit the number of human casualties by staying quiet and holing up. However, Illgner’s land would be devastated.
" ...those were nobles from old Werkestock."
"What?"
“I remember them from my time at the Royal Academy,” the commander explained. “The one they were protecting is a Giebe from old Werkestock.”
The frequency at which we found commoners from old Werkestock and Ahrensbach invade our mountains in search of food made it abundantly clear that their lands were lacking mana. However, I had never expected that a Giebe of all people would invade another duchy to steal mana.
“If this invasion is headed by a Giebe of a mana-deficient duchy, and has the support of Lady Georgine, they won’t give up easily,” I observed.
As a member of the Giebe’s family, I understood their desire to have enough mana to fertilize their land and feed their starving people very well. I could tell neither of us would back down.
“Both Old Werkestock and Ahrensbach are greater duchies, and we are greatly outnumbered,” the commander said. “It is only a matter of time before we are overrun. But even so, we have no choice but to stand our ground until Lord Bonifatius and the reinforcements arrive. That said, I would like to avoid casualties among the younger generations as much as possible.” He let out a deep sigh.
"Whatever will become of us if we cannot count on Illgner’s knights to protect the lives of the province’s people?” I asked, then added, “I will fight too."
"Brigitte, wait," Victor said, his face as white as a sheet. He shook his head in disbelief. "You are no longer a knight. You are a member of the Giebe’s family and Lilarose's mother. For your daughter’s sake, please do not rush into a battle that the commander himself deems reckless. Haven't you been away from training for a while due to giving birth and nursing our child? Right now, you are more vulnerable than the other knights."
I understood what Victor was trying to say. However, I did not agree with him.
"I am a member of the Giebe’s family and a knight,” I declared. “Isn't it natural that I go out and protect Illgner? If I back out, it will affect morale."
"But... " Victor tried.
"I won’t be in any more danger than the other knights,” I said. “Moreover, the reason I resigned as Lady Rozemyne’s guard knight and got married was to protect Illgner. I have no intention of backing down from the fight to protect it now."
Although I was no longer her guard knight and there was a long distance between Ehrenfest and Illgner, Lady Rozemyne still looked out for us. She continued to support our paper-making industry and had provided us with valuable information. Although I only served her for a short period of time, I was greatly indebted to her. More than anything, I wanted to be a knight who Lady Rozemyne would be proud of.
“Besides, if I can’t even protect Illgner here, I won’t be able to protect Lilarose either,” I stated. “Suppose I was to perish in this battle, Lilarose still has you, her father, my brother, and my mother to protect her. Illgner, on the other hand, has very few knights to protect its land. I will entrust our daughter to you. So, please let me go. "
Victor looked at my brother with a pained expression, but my brother shook his head.
“I'm sorry, Victor,” he said apologetically. “As a Giebe, I want as many knights as I can get. Besides, I cannot keep my sister away from battle because it might be dangerous, while at the same time demanding the other knights risk their lives on the battlefield. Brigitte, if you wish to fight to protect Illgner, I will respect that. ... although I pray you won’t do anything too reckless.”
Hearing my brother's words, Victor hung his head and sighed.
"As much as I hate it, you truly are a knight at heart. I understand your desire to protect Illgner and your pride as a knight. However, you are also Lilarose's mother. Don’t be reckless. Stay aware of your surroundings and retreat if necessary. We are just trying to buy time.”
Watching Victor concede to my desire, the commander smiled wryly.
"Lady Brigitte, please don't disregard everyone's concerns. The fewer the casualties, the better. As Lord Victor says, buying time is our top priority. If we can make them cancel the darkness blessing, that will be enough. Let's work together to get every last one of them."
While we were discussing how to make our enemies cancel the blessing and what magical tools might be useful, an ordonnanz flew in.
"This is Bonifatius. I have received the Aub’s permission to use the teleportation circle. I will arrive at fifth bell. Clear the area around the teleportation circle in the front yard of your estate, and have your knights ready to depart. We will head into battle as soon as I arrive."
After repeating the same message three times, the ordonnanz turned back into a yellow feystone. Even then, I still couldn't believe its message.
“Hold on, fifth Bell?” I asked confused. “He means today? And they will use a teleportation circle? To teleport a whole unit of knights?”
We had discovered the enemy when we set out on patrol after lunch. After we returned, we immediately reported to my brother, so we had yet to formally inform the other knights. Yet now we were told that the reinforcements would be arriving within less than a bell.
“Isn’t fifth bell about to ring!” Helfried shouted in panic. “Where is that teleportation circle!?  What is the front yard!?”
"Please calm down, Lord Helfried,” Victor said. “The front yard is the front yard."
“Lady Brigitte, we should inform the knights!” The commander interjected. “At this rate, we won’t be ready to head into battle!”
My steadfast resolve was instantly blown away. First, we had to prepare Illgner to receive the reinforcements, and those of us who went on patrol needed to recover and prepare for the next battle.
As reported by the ordonnanz, right as fifth bell rang, a magic circle appeared in the front yard. Black and golden flames whirled around, and figures started appearing. I had been told that the magic circle connected to the Royal Academy could only transport three people at a time, but I could see the shadows of about fifty people in this teleportation circle.
Once the flickering of the flames subsided, the knights exited the teleportation circle in an orderly manner with Lord Bonifatius in the lead. However, a group of at least ten people remained in place. When he noticed the person standing at the center, my brother cried out in surprise.
“Aub Ehrenfest!?”
We had known that reinforcements would arrive by teleportation circle, but we had not expected the Aub would be accompanying them. As our eyes widened in surprise, Aub Ehrenfest calmly gestured us to calm down, “There is no need to panic. This teleportation circle can only be activated by me, so I had to come along to deliver the reinforcements. I will be returning at once."
"Aub Ehrenfest, I cannot thank you enough for your kind consideration. I didn't even know that there was a teleportation circle like this."
As my brother expressed his gratitude, the Aub nodded lightly.
"Neither did I,” he admitted. “Until Rozemyne mentioned its existence. This battle is the first time I am using it. She read about it in some old book it seems. I am sure you have heard she has been busy reviving ancient magic circles and rituals recorded in the bible and other old literature. That appears to have led to the discovery of this teleportation circle.”
“Lady Rozemyne… ” I whispered.
How could I ever express my gratitude? If not for Lady Rozemyne, this teleportation circle would likely never have been discovered and Lord Bonifatius probably would not have been able to reach us in time.
"Giebe Illgner,” the Aub continued. “These men here are just scholars I brought along to activate the teleportation circle. They aren’t part of the reinforcements."
Apparently, the people who remained standing on the teleportation circle were providing the mana necessary for the Aub to return.
“I cannot send any more people at the moment. So, Illgner is in your hands now.”
I decided to leave it to my brother to see the Aub off, and headed over to Lord Bonifatius, who was giving instructions to the knights.
"Those who assisted with the teleportation will stay here for now. Prioritize your recovery. The rest of you will follow me. Now, who is in charge on Illgner’s side? I want to know what we are dealing with."
"Lord Bonifatius, please allow me to explain,” I said. “We happened upon the enemy while we were out patrolling the border."
"Ah, Brigitte. It's been a while."
In truth, this would have been the job of the commander of Illgner’s knights, but he begged me to take his place, noting, “I'm much too nervous to talk to a member of the archducal family. Who knows what kind of mistakes I will make.” Since I had received special training from Lord Bonifatius as Lady Rozemyne’s guard knight, the idea of having a direct conversation with him did not bother me.
"I see,” Lord Bonifatius nodded. “Those black weapons certainly spell trouble. Not only can they drain mana from the land, but our mana attacks will also work to our opponent’s advantage. It would be better if we used metal weapons. Come to think of it, were they dressed in silver cloth?”
"No, as far as we know they aren’t,” I replied. “Since they can counter our mana attacks with their black weapons, there probably was no need to use silver cloth."
"Since the Aub has been unable to detect their crossing the border, I guess there is a high possibility they do own it though... " Lord Bonifatius mulled. After thinking it over for a moment, he nodded.
"It's not a bad idea to prioritize canceling the blessing. Moreover, it is likely that they are using small chalices too, I have been told. That way they can use the stolen mana to revitalize their land. All right, let's go."
Perhaps Lady Rozemyne had told him that too? I remembered the days when I accompanied Lady Rozemyne across the duchy to perform rituals. Small chalices were divine tools used to fill the land with mana, but it seems that in the hands of the wrong people, they could be used to steal mana from the land as well.
Lord Bonifatius set out, leaving behind the knights who were still drinking rejuvenation potions.
... yes, Illgner will be fine now.
The battle was only just beginning. Even so, the thought of having Lord Bonifatius with us was reassuring, and for some reason made me believe everything would be okay.
... first, I would like to recover the mana that was bestowed onto Illgner by my master and the temple.
“Lord Bonifatius, it’s over there. …it seems more land has been drained of mana.”
As I guided Lord Bonifatius towards the border, I couldn't help but feel frustrated seeing the barren spots of land.
"Can any of you feel the enemy's mana?" Lord Bonifatius asked.
" ...maybe if we fly a little lower," I suggested,
Mana could not be detected if the distance was too large. As I began to lower my altitude, I noticed some trees disappearing out of the corner of my eye.
“Over there!” I shouted.
"Follow me and seize the chalices!" Lord Bonifatius instructed the knights, then immediately sped up, charging the enemy alone.
I saw a schtappe appear in Lord Bonifatius’ hand while he was clearly anticipating the enemy’s route of escape. Even though he had ordered the knights to use non-schtappe weapons to counter the black ones, he changed his own into a halberd.
“Lord Bonifatius!?”
We could not help but cry out in surprise. While we still had no idea what he was aiming for, Lord Bonifatius raised his halberd in the air.
“Lord Bonifatius!?” One of the enemies shouted. “What is he doing here!?”
"Don't stop!” Another yelled. “Counter his mana with your black weapon!"
“Protect the Giebe!”
“Spread out and run!”
To the enemy, it must have been looking like he was attacking them head-on, as they started to scatter in confusion. That’s when Lord Bonifatius brought his halberd down.
"Hmph!"
His mana attack was not aimed directly at the enemy, but instead hit the tree line along their path of escape. Shredding the trees to pieces, causing roughly chopped logs and thick branches to rain down upon their heads.
"Holy shit!"
"Entwafn ... ugh!"
Their black weapons had no effect on the mana-less pieces of wood, nor did they have enough time to cancel the blessing and bring out their shield. Soon, the enemy was buried under a thick pile of logs and branches.
"Don't let them escape!" Lord Bonifatius ordered as we caught up to him.
From there, everything went fast. Most of the people buried under the trees were seriously injured, and even those with minor injuries were unable to make their escape, so they were easily captured.
"I found the chalices! We can return the mana to our land!"
After we stripped the captured Giebe of his possessions and seized the small chalices, joyous shouts of victory emerged from Illgner’s knights.
However, the battle did not end there. Last time, the enemies present in the surrounding area had rallied together to aid their friends. However, this time, they immediately scattered and ran away in fear of Lord Bonifatius’ might.
"We have told Frenbeltag to be on guard, so the enemies’ options for escape are limited,” Lord Bonifatius said. “They are not particularly strong, but if they spread out, it will be enough to prolong the battle. Creating a diversion to keep the knight’s order occupied must be their true aim. Not to mention, their number is smaller than expected.”
I noticed a bitter expression on his face as he spoke. The attack would not destroy Ilgner, but it was intense enough that Illgner’s knights could not deal with it alone. And since the land's mana was being drained, the archducal family had no choice but to respond.
Unfortunately, Lord Bonifatius had been completely right. The next day, the enemies that fled from Illgner started showing up in Griebel.
"Griebel has also requested reinforcements.” Lord Bonifatius announced. “So, we will head for Griebel while mopping up enemies along Illgner's border. Brigitte, you and your men will stay right here!"
"Yes, sir!" I replied.
It was decided that Illgner’s knights would remain camped near the border to prevent a new invasion. Lord Bonifatius promised he would leave some of his knights behind, but to be honest, it was disheartening to see him leave.
"Don't worry,” he said with a confident grin. “I'll give you a good view, so you can focus on protecting the border. If you are overwhelmed, inform me at once."
Lord Bonifatius and his knights unleashed powerful mana attacks on Ahrensbach’s land, mowing down the trees on the other side of the border bit by bit as they moved toward Griebel.
"I see. The view has become much better indeed."
"The enemy can no longer hide, but they may shamelessly attack from the sky. So, let's remain vigilant."
As Lord Bonifatius had said, their purpose was to keep the knights occupied, so the enemies showing up from time to time were not that strong.
"Lady Brigitte, I have something to report,” one of the knight apprentices said to me while we were between battles. “I wanted to inform the Giebe directly, but since a mobilization order was issued, I have instead come to you... It seems that a lumber merchant who traveled to Leisegang by boat to make a delivery noticed some strange noble-looking people trying to board a ship to Ehrenfest while he was there.”
As I listened to the rest of the apprentice’s report, I felt cold sweat start dripping down my back. It had been two days since the lumber merchant saw the people who appeared to be nobles. Even if it was a merchant ship that made stops along the way, there was a possibility that it had already arrived in Ehrenfest.
“I must contact Lady Rozemyne at once!”
However, the ordonnanz I tried to send her immediately turned around.
...don’t tell me Lady Rozemyne is…!
I held my breath as my mind jumped to the worst possible explanation. Ordonnanzes would refuse to fly if the receiver was dead. With trembling hands, I tried sending an ordonnanz to Cornelius and Angelica,
"This is Brigitte. What's the situation over there?”
To my despair, both returned to my hand.
“Then, what about Damuel…?”
Contrary to my fears, the ordonnanz I sent to him soared away as normal. And soon his response arrived.
“We are still waiting for the enemy to make a move.”
His voice sounded as nonchalant as ever, as if nothing was amiss.
I had been fighting for days on end and scared out of my mind at the prospect that Lady Rozemyne might have perished along with her guard knights. Hearing Damuel’s carefree voice made an indescribable anger well up inside me.
I was aware in the back of my mind that I was being irrational. However, if Ehrenfest wasn’t under attack, then why didn’t my ordonnanzes fly? The lack of rest between battles was probably to blame for my heightened emotional state, and in addition, I suppose part of me felt that I was allowed to be casual with him like we used to. So, the reply I sent was dripping with anger.
“Then why can’t I reach anyone by ordonnanz!? I have vital information to report! Where are Lady Rozemyne, Cornelius, and Angelica?”
After that, I included the report from the lumber merchant, and concluded with, “Since we are still under attack, we do not have the leeway to investigate when the ship will arrive. Please make the inquiries yourself and stay on guard.”
"We shall contact Leisegang,” Damuel replied. “Thank you for providing this valuable information in the midst of a tough battle. ... Oh , and Lady Rozemyne and the others are in Ahrensbach, so ordonnanzes won't be able to reach them."
Without even naming my unreasonable anger, Damuel casually told me Lady Rozemyne's whereabouts. I felt so embarrassed that I was the only one getting emotional that my anger slowly began to subside. Once I calmed down, I realized that even Lord Bonifatius had not mentioned the information Damuel had shared with me.
...Lady Rozemyne is in Ahrensbach?
I remembered the Aub had said that he couldn't send any more reinforcements. So, it made sense that even Lady Rozemyne was fighting to protect Ehrenfest.
...it sounds like she is still giving it her all.
I remembered the days she would fight alongside us to collect the materials for her jureve. Although a normal archduke candidate would leave it all to their guard knights, Lady Rozemyne joined the battles despite her frail body, and while falling asleep from exhaustion. Ever since then, Lady Rozemyne hadn't been just a little girl that needed to be protected.
...the people around her seem to have changed though.
Back then, it was me, Damuel, Lord Ferdinand, and his retainers fighting alongside her. Cornelius and Angelica, who were minors at the time, were made to stay behind at the castle. Now that they were adults, she would be taking new guard knights in. I left due to my marriage, and Lord Ferdinand and his retainers moved to Ahrensbach due to his engagement.
I suddenly felt the passage of time as I realized that not only the people surrounding Lady Rozemyne had changed, but my position as well. I was no longer protecting Lady Rozemyne, I was fighting for Illgner and my family now. Although, my desire to protect what was important to me had not changed. If Lady Rozemyne was fighting to protect Ehrenfest, then as her former guard knight, I could not afford to muck around. Through fighting and winning the battle at this border, I would be able to help Lady Rozemyne protect Ehrenfest.
“Lady Brigitte, we have spotted the enemy!”
I jumped to my feet at the sound of the knight's voice. The other knights also mounted their highbeasts, reeling with fighting spirit.
...Good luck to you, Lady Rozemyne. I will do all I can to protect Illgner.
This translation is not supposed to replace the official releases of the light novel series and is purely made for my own entertainment. Please purchase the official light novel when it becomes available!
Prologue
From yesterday into today, from today into tomorrow, time passed without delay. Each day seemed to be the same. However, Justus knew from experience that seemingly mundane days could change on a whim’s notice. Like that day he gave his name to Ferdinand to gain his trust, or that day that Ferdinand was run out of noble society following the previous archduke’s death and entered the temple, or the day that Ferdinand received a royal order to marry into Ahrensbach…. And then, there was today….
“Lady Letizia!? Have you finished replenishing the foundation already!?”
“Please open the door. I’m in a hurry.”
The voice of Lady Letizia echoed behind the door, even though she had only just entered the archduke’s office to replenish the duchy’s foundation. Â
Justus’ gaze met Eckhart’s. Ferdinand had been asked to supply mana to the foundation even though he and Detlinde had yet to marry.  Their Lord had accepted this request and was simultaneously using it as an opportunity to educate Lady Letizia and hear her woes. They were both supposed to be in the mana replenishment hall right now.
When a duchy’s foundation was being replenished, only archnoble retainers related to the archducal family were allowed inside the archduke’s office. Therefore, Justus and Eckhart were not allowed in. The other retainers kept telling them to rest in their rooms while the foundation was being replenished, but they would always wait outside the office’s door. Because Ferdinand had ordered them to keep Detlinde away and inform him immediately should she show up.
“…did something happen?” Justus muttered.
“But that woman isn’t here,” Eckhart replied skeptically.
It had never occurred to Justus that something might happen without Detlinde present. However, the worst had happened. As soon as Letizia left the archduke’s office, she offered him the cage in her hands. It was the cage Ferdinand usually wore on his belt and contained his highbeast and three white, cocoon-like name-swearing stones.
“Ferdinand said… Go…”
An audible gasp escaped Justus’ mouth. A high-pitched ringing sounded in his ears. He could not believe what Letizia was holding in her hands. It was at that moment that Justus’ life in Ahrensbach turned upside down.
The days in which he had frowned upon Detlinde’s words and actions and been stumped by the arrogance of Lanzenave’s representatives. The days in which he had felt increasingly frustrated watching his Lord’s health deteriorate, because meals had run out due to Rozemyne’s disappearance. As everything was coming apart, he realized how relatively peaceful life in Ahrensbach had been until then.
…Lord Ferdinand!
Justus snatched the cage from Letizia’s hands. There was no doubt about it, these were their name-swearing stones. He was sure Ferdinand would never entrust them to anyone else unless he had no other choice.
…what happened? Who did this….?
As his mind went blank, the order Ferdinand had previously given them resounded in his head. It was almost as if Ferdinand had known this day would come.
“When I believe my life is in danger, I shall return your names. For I do not want you to die with me, and I need you to deliver my findings to Ehrenfest. Do not fail me.”
Justus glanced at the cage in his left hand, then touched his chest with his right hand to confirm all the necessary documents were still safely in his inner pocket. The permission slip to use the teleportation circle, the information to be delivered to Aub Ehrenfest, and the name-swearing stones that proved Ferdinand’s life was in danger. Everything was right there.
…do we really have to go?
Justus’ whole body started trembling. His legs refused to move and leave his Lord behind as he was ordered. What exactly had happened to Ferdinand was a mystery to him, but one thing he knew for certain, although Ferdinand was in serious straits, he was still alive. Yet no matter how badly Justus wanted to save him, his Lord was beyond his reach.
“What did you do to Lord Ferdinand!?” Eckhart roared.
“Hii…”
His partner’s shout brought Justus back to his senses. Eckhart, who was trying to restrain Letizia, and the guard knights, who were trying to protect their charge, were staring daggers at each other.
…that idiot!
Realizing Eckhart had completely lost his cool, Justus quickly regained his composure. He could not allow Eckhart to draw his weapon here. Justus’ hand swiftly reached out, grabbing Eckhart by the collar, and he yelled, “Eckhart, the interrogation can wait! We should prioritize Lord Ferdinand’s orders! Remember what he said!?”
Eckhart turned back in surprise. However, anger was still burning in his eyes, and he continued glaring at Letizia through gritted teeth. It was clear to Justus he did not have the time to wait for Eckhart to cool his head. If they did not leave soon, Eckhart would no doubt be captured and questioned for pointing his sword at Letizia.
…this is no laughing matter.
Justus glared at Letizia and the archduke’s office, then turned around. Ignoring the inquiries coming from Sergius and Strahl, he ran off toward the teleportation room. They could not afford to be arrested right now.
“This way.”
They would stand out running through the castle. To lose any pursuers, Justus quickly turned into one of the small hallways used by the servants. Eckhart silently followed him.
Walking at a brisk pace, Justus greeted the passing servants with a smile and a light wave as if nothing was amiss. Meanwhile, he took his name-swearing stone from the cage.
“Justus!?” Eckhart yelled in shock.
“If we do not undo the binding, we shall climb the towering staircase before we can complete Lord Ferdinand’s orders.”
“Don’t jinx us!”
Ignoring Eckhart’s angry glare and cry of outburst, Justus firmly gripped his name-swearing stone and started dissolving the mana binding him. As the white cocoon fell apart, all that remained was a bare name-swearing stone, stripped from its white box. The mana of his Lord that had surrounded him for so long had vanished. He usually took no note of it, but now that it was gone, he felt a strong sense of loss.
“…no matter what happens, I shall carry out Lord Ferdinand’s final orders,” Justus said calmly. “If you want to die with him, that’s fine with me. I can return your feystone to Lord Karstedt and Lady Elvira when I report to Lord Sylvester. Now, what is it going to be?”
The moment Justus suggested he would reunite Eckhart with his parents, even if he failed to complete their Lord’s final orders, Eckhart send him an angry glare and grumbled “Give it to me,” with an outstretched hand. “I shall deliver the information and proof Lord Ferdinand gathered to Aub Ehrenfest, then follow him once I have confirmed his death.”
“That isn’t so bad, is it?”
Thinking the reaction was very in character for Eckhart, Justus handed him the cage with name-swearing stones. You could only distinguish your own stone, because it would react to your mana. Telling other people’s stones apart was impossible.
“This one.”
Eckhart grabbed the stone with trembling hands and returned the cage to Justus, who quietly accepted it. Keeping their brisk pace, Justus watched as Eckhart started to undo the binding with tears in his eyes. He could tell at a glance that the hand holding the name-swearing stone was shaking.
Eckhart had lost his wife Heidemarie and their unborn child to poison mixed into her food. Back then he had wanted to follow her in death, but as a name-sworn retainer, his life belonged to their Lord. Ferdinand had not allowed Eckhart to take his own life and follow his wife in death. He had ordered him to, “Live your life for both of you.”
It had been Heidemarie who had originally suggested, “Let’s serve Lord Ferdinand as man and wife.” Ever since he lost her, Eckhart had faithfully served Ferdinand on her behalf as well. By now, serving Ferdinand had become the reason for his existence.
…this must be even harder on Eckhart than it is on me.
They had to undo their ultimate show of loyalty with their own hands. Few would be able to understand the frustration and disgrace they felt right now. They had failed to protect their Lord, proving their loyalty and devotion had not been enough.
…it’s only Lasfam now.
Justus looked at the final name-swearing stone that remained in the cage. It belonged to Lasfam. Ferdinand had judged that as a laynoble attendant, he was unable to protect himself. He had therefore been told to wait in Ehrenfest until after the starbind ceremony when Ferdinand’s position as the Archduchess’ husband had been established before moving to Ahrensbach. Lasfam must have been the one who regretted the postponement of the starbind ceremony more than anyone else.
…I guess we failed to keep our promise to Lasfam then.
They had promised Lasfam to play their cards wisely to ensure his smooth acceptance by the Ahrensbach retainers, and to protect Lord Ferdinand from Lady Georgine’s schemes and the various rumors going around. Yet Justus and Eckhart had ultimately failed to protect their Lord.
…I wonder if we’ll be able to return Lasfam’s name-swearing stone in time.
Lasfam’s name-swearing stone would respond when Ferdinand’s life ran out. It was hard to say if Ferdinand would last until they could return it. Just thinking about Ferdinand’s inevitable death, Justus felt his stomach turn. However, if he allowed himself to vomit, he was certain all the tears, anger, and despair he was desperately trying to suppress would come out too, and nail him to the ground. Swallowing everything back down, Justus focused on moving his legs, telling himself to prioritize Ferdinand’s final orders.
Justus took a deep breath before leaving the servant’s passages to clear his mind and plastered his usual smile on his face. The teleportation room was right ahead. They could not let the knights in there know something was amiss.
“Eckhart, your emotions are showing on your face. Quell your anger. Don’t forget, we are simply going to see Raimund at Lord Ferdinand’s request.”
There was the possibility the knights had been informed by ordonnanz, therefore some caution was required. However, when she handed him the cage with name-swearing stones, even Letizia had seemed unsure of what exactly happened. They would certainly prioritize questioning Letizia, trying to contact Ferdinand in the mana replenishment hall, and obtaining Detlinde’s permission to arrest Eckhart and him. They would not think to contact the teleportation room, right?
“Oh, off to the Royal Academy again, are we?”
“We are just going to deliver the corrected assignments and some ingredients Professor Hirschur asked for…. Extorting the necessary brewing ingredients for her research from Lord Ferdinand is unfortunately one of her specialties. It’s really quite troubling.”
As expected, no one had contacted the knights stationed at the teleportation room. Although the two knights on duty gave Justus and Eckhart looks of surprise, they immediately started preparations to activate the teleportation circle upon seeing their permission slips.
“Lord Ferdinand isn’t joining you today, is he?” One of the knights asked. “It’s rare to see both of you leave his side at the same time.”
The teleportation circle was generally only used during the Royal Academy term and the Archduke Conference. For that reason, the knights stationed at the teleportation room had been informed that Raimund was holing up in Professor Hirschur’s laboratory, that Ferdinand was keeping an eye on him, and that Detlinde had given them permission to use the teleportation circle for research purposes. That said, Eckhart and Justus had never visited the Royal Academy without Ferdinand. Justus shrugged lightly, hoping to avoid any suspicion.
“He has the former knight’s commander, Strahl, with him, and I very much doubt anything will happen while he’s replenishing the foundation. Lord Ferdinand should be fine without us for a bit. Professor Hirschur always forces whoever comes to see her to assist with her brewing, so it is not a task he can easily entrust to someone who does not know how she rolls.”
The knights, who just contacted the dormitory to inform them of their upcoming arrival, blinked in surprise.
“What? She even asks attendants and knights to assist with her brewing?”
“That’s right,” Justus answered. “She constantly had us help her while Ferdinand attended the Royal Academy. Although I am officially an attendant, I can brew as well as any scholar. To be honest with you, I fear she will be keeping us all night.”
“Haha. Joint research with Ehrenfest certainly is rough.”
With all preparations completed, the knights beckoned Justus and Eckhart to step onto the teleportation circle. As they did, they were engulfed in black and golden flames. Feeling a slight floating sensation in their stomach, they left Ahrensbach’s castle behind them.
They smiled at the knights stationed at the dormitory as they left the teleportation room. Then walked at a leisurely pace until the sound of their footsteps could not be heard anymore. As they turned around the corner, Justus pulled out the magic letter he always carried on his body. It was a permission slip that was preemptively signed by Sylvester, authorizing them to use Ehrenfest’s tea party room as a place of refuge in case of emergency.
“Eckhart, get rid of that vase.”
After Eckhart swiftly moved it away, Justus unfolded the letter on the empty pedestal and transformed his schtappe using stylo to write a request for an emergency meeting with Aub Ehrenfest and signed his name. He then passed it to Eckhart, who signed it as well.
As Justus put it in the accompanying envelope, the letter turned into a white bird and flew off. That’s when Justus and Eckhart started running. There was no one in the empty dormitory to chastise them for it.
As they exited the dormitory from the entrance hall, they ran towards the door to Ehrenfest’s tea party room in the central tower. After a short wait in front of the eighth entrance, the knight who had received their letter hastily opened the door.
“I have contacted Aub Ehrenfest. Please wait inside.”
The knight allowed them inside, then left the room. Since Justus and Eckhart no longer had their authorization brooches, they could not enter Ehrenfest’s dormitory itself. They had no choice but to wait in the tea party room for Sylvester to arrive.
Justus looked around the room and quickly rearranged the furniture for the upcoming meeting. Then, he plopped down in a chair, showing not a shred of the grace expected of a noble. He could not help it, his body just felt too heavy.
“…Is Lasfam still okay?”
Hearing Eckhart’s whisper, Justus glanced at the golden cage. Lasfam’s name-swearing stone was still there. Nothing had changed. It meant Ferdinand was still alive. However, that knowledge was not enough to stop the feeling of hopelessness eating away inside him.
…when everything is said and done, it’s not like we can save Lord Ferdinand.
Exploiting the information they carried, Justus and Eckhart would likely be accepted back into Ehrenfest, and it would give them good cause to attack Ahrensbach. However, that would not save Ferdinand. Neither Aub Ehrenfest nor the Grutrissheit-less Zent could change that. There was no one in this world who could save Ferdinand from Ahrensbach’s mana replenishment hall.
…after everything he has been through, this is what he gets?
Their attitude was inexcusable. Be it the Zent, who issued the royal order, or Ehrenfest, who completely cut them off from any information and stopped sending them food, medicine, and such after Rozemyne disappeared. Justus decided that, depending on Sylvester’s attitude at this meeting, he would take revenge on Ahrensbach’s archducal family without even considering the consequences it would have for Ehrenfest.
He would never forgive Detlinde, for pushing all of her work onto others and doing nothing herself, Lanzenave’s people, for stealing Detlinde away and increasing their workload, and Letizia and her retainers, for wasting Ferdinand’s time and putting him in danger despite him bothering to educate her.
The desire to assassinate Detlinde and Letizia, and completely ruin Ahrensbach’s archducal family surged through Justus’ body. Let the Zent tear his hair out deciding how to deal with a greater duchy that had lost its entire archducal family.
“Justus, what are you thinking about?” Eckhart asked.
“I was wondering where and what kind of magic tools I might set off in Ahrensbach’s castle.”
“…Hm, I’d rather kill all of them with my own hands first. I would not want any to get away in the chaos.”
“We could leave a single way of escape. Then, as they think they are safe, we will sink them into the depths of despair.”
They both chuckled, a devilish glint shining in their eyes. Although their laughter was light, the air in the room felt sharp and heavy. Possibly because they were suppressing their desire to go on a rampage immediately.
Suddenly, the door opened with a click.
“Excuse us.”
A few attendants entered the room and started preparing tea for their meeting with the Aub.
“My apologies for our knight’s incompetence.” One of them said. “Leaving without serving our guests some tea…”
“Don’t worry about it,” Justus responded. “We arrived rather suddenly. It’s not the knight’s fault. …when is Aub Ehrenfest expected to arrive?”
The attendant forced a smile, as she put some snacks on the table.
“He should be here soon. We were instructed to hurry.”
“Sorry for the wait.”
The attendant had not lied, Sylvester had arrived much quicker than expected. Justus briefly glanced at Lasfam’s name-swearing stone. No changes yet.
“I see the tea is done. Then you may leave and start preparations for our next guest.”
Justus and Eckhart were not the only ones, Sylvester himself seemed to be in quite a hurry too. Right after instructing the attendants to leave the room, he placed two sound-blocking magic tools on the table. After checking everyone was holding one, Justus opened his mouth to speak.
“Aub Ehrenfest, Lord Ferdinand was…”
But before he could complete his sentence, Sylvester interrupted him.
“I know. He was poisoned, right? Rozemyne told me.”
Justus and Eckhart were taken aback.
“Wait, Lady Rozemyne has returned?” Justus asked in surprise. “We heard she went missing…”
“Who told you that?” Sylvester replied with a stern look. “I gave strict orders to everyone to keep that information from leaking.”
Eckhart quickly tried to change the topic.
“Let’s focus on Lord Ferdinand’s situation for now.”
If possible, they would rather not reveal their information source, but Sylvester would not have it.
“A royal order was issued to keep it under wraps. So, state your source. I don’t want more of our information to leak.”
“…it was Professor Hirschur.” Justus admitted reluctantly. “She told us in exchange for helping her with her brewing.
Sylvester gave a heavy sigh, and grumbled, “Seems I must be more careful with what information I share with Hirschur.” with a bitter look on his face. Even so, he seemed to be relieved the information did not leak from a more threatening source. Then, his expression suddenly softened.
“That reminds me, these are a gift from Rozemyne. Should bring some color back to your faces.”
As he said that, Sylvester plopped two rejuvenation potions on the table. Eckhart and Justus had been hesitant to use any at all, since their stock had been running low in Ahrensbach. So, they were quick to accept Rozemyne’s consideration and downed the potions without delay. They tasted awful, but the rejuvenating effects were excellent.
“Where did Lady Rozemyne get her information?” Justus inquired. “We headed here immediately after the events took place….”
“She received Ferdinand’s Last Words.”
“What!?”
In this context, Last Words referred to the event in which a person in mortal danger started emitting mana to inform someone else of their situation. The person on the receiving end would be able to watch the situation like it were a video and was always a person the sender cared for very strongly. The image was generally transmitted subconsciously, and it often happened to people engaged in battle. Since it was hardly ever possible to save the person in question, people referred to it as their Last Words. In short, Rozemyne had witnessed events that Eckhart and Justus had not seen.
“What is Georgine up to?” Sylvester inquired. “According to Rozemyne, she is the mastermind behind Ferdinand’s downfall.”
Since Georgine had left her villa days ago and had not had any interactions with Letizia at all, Justus had not yet considered she might be pulling the strings.
“She left her villa roughly ten days ago to perform Spring Prayer,” Justus replied through gritted teeth.
“Then, I guess that means she could be arriving in Ehrenfest any day now?”
Sylvester let out a heavy sigh.
“Is Lady Georgine truly pulling the strings?” Justus asked.
“Yeah, Rozemyne said Georgine planned it all, then Detlinde flung the powder at him.”
…Lady Detlinde? But only Lady Letizia was there?
Detlinde wasn’t supposed to be anywhere near the mana replenishment hall. Ferdinand had made sure of that. There was a large discrepancy between the information Rozemyne had and what they knew for themselves to be true. But before Justus could ask for clarification, Sylvester suddenly grinned widely.
“Rozemyne is going to save Ferdinand tonight.”
“What?”
Unable to process the full meaning of Sylvester’s words, Justus’ eyes merely opened wide in surprise. As far as he knew, there was no one in this whole world who had the power to save Ferdinand from the mana replenishment hall of another duchy. There was supposed to be no chance of success.
“You say it is possible? That little princess can…”
“Hm? Oh, she isn’t that little anymore. Just wait till you see her, you’ll be surprised.”
Justus hadn’t seen Rozemyne in over a year. So, he agreed she probably would have grown some, but that was not what he had meant.
“Did Lady Rozemyne say it is possible to save him?”
“She persuaded Bonifatius to let her try, claiming she could save him and decided to leave at midnight. So, she must have seen something that makes her feel there is some leeway. It seems to me there is a good chance of success.”
Even if they departed at midnight, there was still a good chance of success. That meant their Lord would not die just yet. As the realization struck him, Justus felt the coil of tension snap and his body started to relax. The pitch-black darkness of despair that had engulfed him while they were waiting for Sylvester to arrive cleared up in an instant. The relief of learning there was still some hope left nearly brought him to tears.
“I have a message from Ferdinand for Lady Rozemyne. That if she stays in Ehrenfest and waits quietly, she will be able to save Yurgenschmidt and Ehrenfest. Do you think she will listen to him?”
“You think a mere message could stop her?” Sylvester replied with a smirk. “When all is over, Ferdinand will be at his wit’s end trying to clean up her mess, but that is what he gets for getting himself into trouble.”
Wry smiles appeared on Justus’ and Eckhart’s faces as they remembered how Ferdinand would always tap his finger against his temple as he dealt with Rozemyne’s unexpected actions. It was easy to imagine Ferdinand pinching her cheeks, and grumbling, “Why didn’t you listen to me?”, after she successfully saved him.
…Lady Rozemyne is truly extraordinary.
The way in which Lady Rozemyne exceeded Ferdinand’s expectations and plans time and again was exhilarating, to say the least. Now, was there anything else they could do to increase Ferdinand’s survival rate? All of a sudden, Justus had the leeway to consider the option. There was very little he could do if he limited himself to orthodox methods. No, he needed to be prepared to play his full hand, irrespective of the consequences.  No matter how questionable, if he prioritized his Lord’s life, there should be something he could do.
…that reminds me, we have that.
Ferdinand would be furious and Rozemyne would absolutely hate the idea. However, he would do anything to save his Lord’s life. A way to help Rozemyne, prolong Ferdinand’s life and in passing, pay one out to his Lord. Realizing he had found a way to do it all at once, a smile played on Justus’ lips.
Eckhart however, still had a stern expression on his face.
“You say that Rozemyne is going to save him, but wouldn’t that be an act equivalent to invading another duchy. Did you give her permission for this, Aub Ehrenfest?”
“Yes, I gave her my permission. I told Rozemyne she and her retainers can do as they want. I’m sorry, but I cannot spare more manpower while Georgine could arrive at Ehrenfest’s doorstep at any moment.”
Upon hearing the words, “I gave her my permission.” directly from Sylvester’s mouth, Eckhart finally seemed to relax too. He heaved a sigh, then wiped away some tears. Taking a deep breath Eckhart stood up and kneeled before Sylvester, took his hands in his, and pressed his forehead against them.
“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for committing to invade a greater duchy. I am beyond happy that you are willing to try to rescue Lord Ferdinand. I cannot express in words how grateful I am he has an older brother like you….”
Except for ceremonial purposes, it was extremely rare for Eckhart to kneel before anyone but Ferdinand. Aware of this, Sylvester should understand how deep Eckhart’s gratitude truly ran. His dark green eyes narrowed softly.
“I will accept your gratitude, but Ferdinand isn’t safe yet. The battle has yet to begin.”
Eckhart lifted his head with a snap. Sylvester pulled his hands free from Eckhart’s and gently gestured for him to sit back in his seat.
“I shall be speaking with the royal family after this. If they grant us permission, that would be greatly appreciated, but even without it, Rozemyne will go ahead.”
“And that’s fine with you?”
Eckhart’s facial expression tightened again upon hearing they still needed to get permission from the royal family.
“You came here, leaving Ferdinand’s side while his life is in danger. I bet you have something for me, don’t you? Show me already.”
If he wanted to have any success at convincing the royal family to give him permission to attack Ahrensbach and subjugate Lanzenave’s envoy, Sylvester needed proof to support his claims. He spoke with complete confidence that Ferdinand had gathered just that.
Prompted by Eckhart’s gaze, Justus pulled several recording tools from his bag and several sheets of paper from his inner pocket, arranging everything on the table.
“Lord Ferdinand intended to use these as evidence to show that Detlinde is not suited to become Aub Ahrensbach, but if you emphasize the close relationship between Ahrensbach’s archducal family and Lanzenave, and the harm they brought to Lord Ferdinand who headed there at the Zent’s orders, it should be possible to keep the royal family from interfering.
As Justus explained the contents of the documents and recording tools, an ordonnanz arrived. It contained a message from the first prince.
“Rozemyne is waiting for you at Ferdinand’s esta…” Sylvester began but quickly corrected himself. “Ah, no, it’s Rozemyne’s library now. She decided to prioritize preparations instead of meeting you here.”
He then placed two authorization brooches on the table. The proof they would be treated as nobles from Ehrenfest from here on. It hit Justus this meant Sylvester had prepared them before even hearing their circumstances.
“Having people that are familiar with the castle’s layout and can guide her to the mana replenishment hall, will dramatically increase the success rate.” Sylvester continued. “Be sure to save your Lord, my little brother. I’m counting on you.”
“Don’t worry, we will save him without fail.”
Ascendance of a Bookworm (29)
Part 5 Volume 8 Extra Chapter 3
This translation is not supposed to replace the official releases of the light novel series and is purely made for my own entertainment. Please purchase the official light novel when it becomes available!
Since the title of this chapter contains spoilers,
it has been hidden beneath a “read more” for your safety!
[The Battle for Ehrenfest]
Philine - Evacuating as practiced
"Philine, we have to hurry. We are running late."
“You’re right,” I replied. “Let’s go. It would be rude to make everyone wait."
Gretia and I hurriedly left the dressing room in the main building and headed up the stairs to the retainer's room that was attached to our lady’s room in the castle. Since Lady Rozemyne went to Ahrensbach to rescue Lord Ferdinand, she wasn’t presently in the castle. However, each day at second bell, those of us who remained in Ehrenfest gathered in the retainers’ room for a debriefing session. We would exchange information, before going about our daily tasks.
"Good morning, everyone,” I said. “I apologize for the delay."
"Philine, Gretia,” Ottilie spoke. “It’s unusual for you to be tardy. Did something happen?"
She gave us a concerned look.
"The dressing room was a bit crowded is all,” I explained. “Ever since Lord Bonifatius left for Illgner, everyone has been eager to exchange information..."
Retainers of the archducal family were usually arch- or mednobles, so they generally brought attendants from home to take care of them, even if they lived in the castle. There were few people who, like Gretia and I, didn't have the financial means to hire someone and depended on others in a similar position to help them dress in the dressing room. On top of that, since we were minors with a weak status and position, we were easy targets. It had been hard to escape the hordes of people hungry for even the slightest bit of information.
"I see,” Ottilie said. “Next time you are running late, please send an ordonnanz.”
“I’ll come and fetch you,” Bertilde added with an excited smile.
As an archnoble, she had no reason to set foot in the dressing room under normal circumstances, but it made sense that she was curious about the current state of the dressing room.
Once Gretia and I took our seats, Ottilie looked around at everyone.
“Then, let us begin. First, I received an ordonnanz from Rhiyarda.”
Since Lady Rozemyne was currently absent, Rhiyarda and Lord Melchoir’s retainers would update us on any vital information. It was Ottilie’s job to receive their ordonnanzes since she was always at the castle. Additionally, Ottilie's husband was one of Lady Florencia’s scholars, so she was in a position that made it easier to get information.
“Suspicious movements have been reported not only by Illgner and Griebel, but by Gerlach as well. Lord Bonifatius remains on high alert.”
The evening before yesterday the atmosphere inside the castle had suddenly grown tense when Lord Bonifatius and a unit of knights were teleported to Illgner as reinforcements. Yesterday, we had been informed that enemies had appeared not only in Illgner, but also in Griebel, and that the battlefield was becoming more widespread and thus difficult to manage. This morning, it was Gerlach. Everything indicated a battle was approaching.
"Then, I also received a letter from Clarissa. She says that Lady Rozemyne has not woken up yet, but Lord Ferdinand is currently heading to Ehrenfest with Dunkelferger’s knights in tow. I have already reported this to the Aub.”
Ottilie showed us the envelope. It was impossible to know for certain whether Ahrensbach’s border gate had fallen into enemy hands or not, but no letters other than those sent by Clarissa, who belonged to Dunkelfelger, made it through. We realized this after Clarissa wrote, “As Hartmut reported in his letter…,” but no such letter had arrived.
“Bertilde, how is the situation with the archducal family?” Ottilie asked while looking at her.
Bertilde quickly took out a sheet of paper. With Lady Rozemyne away, Bertilde was currently assisting Brunhilde during the day. This was partly because Brunhilde still had few retainers of her own, and partly because this allowed us to get information from someone in close contact with the archducal family.
“Since last night, Lady Charlotte has occasionally been taking over as the knight’s order’s liaison and overseeing commander,” Bertilde read. “Thus, there will not be any issues while the Aub is holed up inside the foundation. The day before yesterday, provisions and rejuvenation potions were distributed to the knights under the supervision of Lady Florencia, but yesterday my sister took over that role. Each can take over for the other as necessary… she says."
The report had likely been composed by Brunhilde, because Bertilde was clearly reading out the text on the sheet of paper. It sounded like the main building had descended into a state of chaos as nobody knew when the archducal family might need to take the battlefield.
“Even so, I still cannot believe that Lady Rozemyne acquired Ahrensbach’s foundation,” I said. “Is something like that truly possible?”
This was probably because I was a laynoble and had no idea how the foundation’s magic worked. The idea that the position of Aub was hereditary was deeply ingrained in me, so the thought that someone could just come and steal it seemed absurd.
“Well, Lady Rozemyne knew it was possible. In other words, it is entirely possible for Lady Georgine to steal the foundation of Ehrenfest,” Damuel said with a troubled face.
Ever since Lord Bonifatius went into battle, Damuel had been posted at the knight’s order instead of the temple so that he may obtain any information shared with the order as quickly as possible. I could almost feel the tense atmosphere radiating off him.
“Philine, Roderick,” Damuel said. “Are you still continuing the evacuation drills at the temple?
I looked at Roderick, then nodded firmly.
"Yes,” I replied. “We are now able to smoothly coordinate with Lord Melchior’s retainers."
At first, we did not look beyond the tasks assigned to each of us. Naturally, this led to many gaps in the chain of communication. However, after practicing the process several times, we became able to communicate smoothly. Blue priests and gray priests could not use ordonannzes, so without practice, even something as simple as contacting someone might become impossible in an emergency.
“Lieseletta, Gretia,” Ottilie said. “Are you ready to receive the Gutenbergs?”
“We have finished preparing the necessary bedding and two days' worth of food,” Lieseletta replied. “Since this is an emergency and they are all commoners, we concluded it would not be necessary to prepare a separate room for each guest. Instead, we decided to prepare two rooms, one for the men and one for the women. Although it does seem rather simple, so… we are currently considering whether it might be better to use the beds in the servant rooms.”
As attendants of the archducal family, they seemed dissatisfied to be not fully prepared to receive guests, whether they be commoners or not. Upon hearing their words, I remembered I had something to report of my own.
“Um, we received a request from the Plantin Company,” I said. “They request that should we come under attack, the unfinished clothes and the seamstresses of the Gilberta Company be evacuated to the Library along with the Gutenburgs who are to accompany Lady Rozemyne to the Sovereignty. They do not want the clothes to be damaged in the chaos of the battle.”
Since Lady Rozemyne was due to be adopted by the king and move to the Sovereignty, it was of the utmost importance that her clothes were completed as soon as possible. It was a matter of great concern, especially to her attendants. Lieseletta and Ottilie briefly glanced at each other, before nodding.
"It will be a problem if her clothes aren't ready in time,” Ottilie agreed. “Lieseletta, Gretia, coordinate with Lasfam and prepare to receive the seamstresses as well. Preparing a sewing room may be difficult for a man."
Lieseletta and Gretia nodded at Ottilie's words.
“Then,” Ottilie continued. “Today, as usual, Bertilde will be assisting and gathering information from Brunhilde. Lieseletta and Gretia will be preparing for our guests at the library. Judith will accompany Philine and Roderick to the temple. Damuel will stay with the knight’s order. Everyone, please be ready to act when called upon. Now, off you go."
After the meeting ended, Roderick, Judith, and I met up with Lord Melchior and his retainers, then headed for the temple.
"Good morning, everyone."
Lord Melchior and Lady Rozemyne's attendants welcomed us into the temple. Even though Gill would normally be in the workshop at this time of day, he was there to greet us too. I suspected he was hoping I had an answer for the Plantin Company.
“Gill, permission has been granted to the request from the Plantin Company. Please inform them to evacuate Lady Rozemyne’s clothes and the seamstresses as well in case of an emergency.”
"Understood,” he replied. “I will inform them right away."
It clearly had been the answer he was waiting for, for he immediately turned on his heels and left for the workshop.
“Lady Judith and Lord Roderick,” Fran said. “This way, please. Monika, I will leave Lady Philine in your care.”
Following Fran's instructions, Judith and Roderick headed straight to the High Bishop’s room, while I followed Monika to the orphanage director's room to get changed into my blue shrine maiden robes. Although I was given the orphanage director's room, I could not actually live there, because the attendants and personal chefs to be assigned to me still belonged to the High Bishop’s room. So, at the moment, I was a commuting blue shrine maiden apprentice.
“Lady Philine, the battle in Ahrensbach has ended in victory, did it not?” Monika inquired with a worried expression as she helped me put on my blue robes. “When will Lady Rozemyne return? Have you received any news?”
I smiled softly in return. She had asked me the exact same questions yesterday.
“We haven’t received word yet that Lady Rozemyne has woken up,” I replied. “However, we expect her to wake up sometime today.”
Although Monika must be used to Lady Rozemyne being absent from the temple due to spring prayer and the harvest festival, her master was currently not only in another duchy, but out in battle as well. It made complete sense to me that she would be worried about her. Besides, it was not just Monika, Fran and Gill would also casually check in with us on Lady Rozemyne’s situation.
“Like everyone else at the temple,” Monika smiled. “I am praying for Lady Rozemyne’s speedy and safe return.”
After I finished changing, I called on Judith and together we went to Lord Melchior’s room to get some paperwork done. Meanwhile, Roderick would stay in the High Bishop’s room to transcribe books. Since he would accompany Lady Rozemyne to the sovereignty, there was no need for him to learn the ins and outs of the temple's work. So instead, he was working hard to transcribe as many books as possible for Lady Rozemyne, since books would be few and far between in the sovereignty.
“Today we will check the income and expenses of the Rozemyne Workshop and the orphanage.”
Checking the income and expenses once a month was said to be the most important job of the orphanage director, as it directly affected the lives of the orphans. And, to make sure the orphanage director could not embezzle any of the money, this had to be done in cooperation with the High Priest and the High Bishop.
Monika lined up numerous wooden boards and sheets of paper in front of me, the current orphanage director, Lord Melchior, the next High Bishop, and Lord Kashmir, the next High Priest. The documentation had been provided by several sources. It included documents submitted by the Plantin Company, logs recorded by the workshop, and records compiled by Wilma at the orphanage.
"Food costs have suddenly increased,” I noted. “Is there a reason for this?”
"Since we are no longer trapped inside by snow and the market has opened again,” Monika explained. “We are spending more on food."
"There should be earnings from our winter handiwork, right?” I asked. “I cannot seem to find them... "
“Those will be included next time,” Monika replied. “Although we have received the money, we have yet to receive the final report from the Plantin Company.”
While comparing the income and expenses not only with last month’s report but also with last year's, we checked for any mistakes or problems.
Dong… Dong….
When third bell rang, we still had not fully finished checking the flow of money. Lord Ferdinand had been able to point out mistakes and irregularities just by glancing through the documents, but that was still beyond our capabilities. Although I bemoaned my lack of experience, I found that leisurely comparing documents like this with everyone was quite enjoyable.
"This is the list of apprentices who will have their coming-of-age ceremony this spring, and this is the list of orphans who will be baptized this summer. We are preparing their rooms and robes accordingly, as you can see here."
"...the amount of money is completely different from what I spent when preparing my room,” Lord Melchior noted. “It makes me feel like I indulged myself too much."
"Lord Melchior,” Kashimir said. “Please don't think your own room and that of an orphan to be the same."
As we were having this conversation, an ordonnanz soared into the room. I expected it to head for Lord Melchior or Lord Kashmir, but to my surprise, it landed on my arm.
“Philine, this is Damuel.”
All of us instantly fell silent and turned our attention to the ordonnanz.
“According to information we received from a commoner, suspicious noble-looking people, whom we believe to be Lady Georgine and her entourage, boarded a merchant ship heading to Ehrenfest in Leisegang. When we contacted Leisegang, they informed us that the ship is expected to arrive at Ehrenfest’s west gate around noon. I would like you to evacuate the temple before fourth bell. There is still plenty of time, so there is no need to panic. Just evacuate as you practiced."
Although Damuel had just told me to remain calm, my heart was already pounding in my chest. Lady Georgine and her associates were really headed our way. My hands started shaking, making it hard to hit the yellow feystone with my schtappe and send a reply to Damuel.
“Philine,” Lord Kashmir spoke. “I will contact Lord Melchior’s guard knights and inform the blue priests to evacuate. Do you remember what you need to do after you send a reply to Damuel?”
Still trembling, I automatically replied, “I must inform the orphanage and the gatekeepers to evacuate.”
“Good,” Lord Kashmir nodded.
Only then did I calm down enough to regain control over my schtappe.
"This is Philine. Thank you for contacting us. We shall now proceed to evacuate the temple. Damuel, good luck out there."
With a flick of my schtappe, the ordonnanz flew off. I stared at it until it was completely out of sight, then put my pen away. Monika had already cleaned up the documents, and Judith had sent an ordonnanz to inform Roderick.
"We received word from Damuel to evacuate by noon. Philine and I shall proceed to the orphanage. Roderick, please proceed as we practiced."
First, Roderick was to contact the Plantin Company using a magic letter. After that, he would prepare the High Bishop's room.
“Let’s go, Philine,” Judith said.
We left Lord Melchior's room while Lord Kashmir started sending ordonnanzes all over the place. There were no nobles in the orphanage and workshop, so to contact them we had no choice but to go there in person. We swiftly moved along the hallways, calling out to any gray priests and shrine maidens we came across, telling them to quickly put away their cleaning tools and evacuate to the orphanage. I found my younger brother Konrad cleaning in the hallway just outside the noble’s section.
“Konrad,” I called out to him. “Please put away your tools and evacuate to the orphanage.”
“Are Dirk and the others okay?” Konrad asked, sending a worried glance toward the noble’s section while putting his cleaning rag away in a bag. Dirk and some others had already been baptized as nobles. As blue apprentices, they lived in a different place now.
"Don't worry, I will check on them later. If you don't evacuate quickly, Dirk and the others will be the ones worried."
"I see," Konrad nodded.
Just then Fran's voice rang out from behind us.
“Lady Philine, I am going to the workshop to make sure that Lutz and the others return home.
Several people from the Plantin Company were currently present in the orphanage’s workshop. Since some of them were Gutenbergs who had to evacuate to Lady Rozemyne's library, it was vital to contact them immediately.
"Please do,” I said. “Meet us in the dining hall once the men’s wing has been evacuated. As we practiced.”
Fran nodded and turned right, toward the men’s wing of the orphanage, while we turned left and headed towards the women's wing. I called out to Wilma and the others as soon as I stepped through the door that Monika had opened for me.
"We have received word from the knight’s order. We must evacuate right away, but there is no need to panic."
Wilma nodded with a stiff face, then swiftly left to check if there were any gray shrine maidens on the third floor. At the same time, Delia ran down the stairs, yelling, “I will check if there is anyone in the rooms on the first floor.” Lily went over to the children playing in the dining hall to inform them it was time to go to the basement.
“We shall be evacuating just as we practiced the other day.”
Everyone knew exactly what they needed to do.
After assigning Monika to instruct the gray shrine maidens who were returning from work, Judith and I descended the stairs to the basement to inform the gray shrine maidens who were about to make soup for lunch that the order to evacuate had been given. On our way down, an ordonnanz landed on Judith’s arm.
"This is Fonzel. I have arrived at the noble’s gate. Dedrick is headed towards the front gate."
Lord Melchior's guard knights were arriving at the temple’s gates one after another.
"Philine, I shall be going to the back gate to relieve the gray priests and activate the schumil,” Judith announced. “After you have confirmed that the orphanage has been evacuated, return to the High Bishop’s room with Fran and Monika.”
"I know,” I replied. “I will leave the gate to you. Please be careful, Judith."
Judith nodded and went outside through the basement door. Soon after, the gray shrine maidens who had been working in the workshop returned.
“Lady Philine, this is everyone. There are no more shrine maidens in the workshop.”
"Then, let's close the doors."
In the past, the basement doors could only be opened from the outside, but nowadays, there were bolts on the inside too, so it could be opened and closed from the inside as well. I didn't think Lady Georgine would try to enter through the orphanage, but to be on the safe side, we used some pots and pedestals to block the door as well. After confirming everything was in place, I returned to the dining hall.
“There is no one left upstairs,” Wilma said.
“Everyone is gathered in the basement,” Lily reported.
As I was listening to Wilma and Lily’s reports, Fran entered the dining hall and informed me that the evacuation of the men's wing had been completed. I breathed a sigh of relief, glad to know that I had successfully fulfilled my role as the orphanage’s director.
"Very well then,” I said. “Please be quiet and stay inside until someone comes for you."
Fran, Monika, and I left the orphanage. I heard the door lock behind us, and the footsteps of Wilma and the others moving away.
"Then, let us return."
We locked the door to the noble’s section to lower the chances of any enemies entering. Then, I checked on Dirk and Laurenz’s little half-brother Bertram, just as I had promised Konrad.
"Be quiet and stay inside. Don’t open the door, even if you hear screams or any commotion. Is that clear?"
After giving them a firm warning, I went up to the third floor to check on the blue shrine maiden apprentices. Since the floor was reserved for women, Lord Melchior and his retainers were not allowed to go there unless it was an emergency. Therefore, it was up to me, a fellow woman, to check up on them.
"I understand it may be scary, but do not leave your room, no matter what happens. You will be safe as long as you stay inside," I told the blue shrine maiden apprentices, before returning to the High Bishop’s room.
“Welcome back, Philine,” Roderick said upon our return.
Gill, Fritz, Nicola, Hugo, and the other kitchen personnel were already gathered in the room. Normally, commoner servants were not allowed to enter the High Bishop’s room, but Lady Rozemyne had told us to use our mana to protect everyone with a magic barrier.
The table and chairs had been rearranged, and a magic barrier tool had been placed in the middle of the room. Lady Rozemyne had created it to protect all the non-combatants remaining in the temple. Once it was activated, hiding in the High Bishop’s room should be as safe as hiding in her Library.
"This is Philine. The evacuation of the orphanage has been completed, and the door to the noble’s section has been locked. I also checked on the blue shrine maiden apprentices on the third floor and warned them to stay inside. All the High Bishop’s attendants have returned to the room, so we shall now proceed to activate the magic barrier.”
After confirming that everyone was indeed present, I sent the ordonnanz to Lord Kashmir.
"Very well, is everyone ready?” I asked. “Once the barrier is activated, no one will be able to leave or enter the room until it is turned off."
I looked around at the people in the room, then nodded towards Roderick. He immediately downed a rejuvenation potion that greatly restored only one’s mana, then touched the magic tool with a nervous look on his face and allowed his mana to flow into it.
Although it was reassuring to know that the magic barrier created by Lady Rozemyne would be able to withstand any attack, it required a ridiculously large amount of mana to be activated. Moreover, since it absorbed a lot of mana all at once, Roderick and I were at risk of mana depletion if we removed our hands a second too late. So, I nervously waited for my turn while holding the same rejuvenation potion as Roderick had used.
“Philine, get ready!” Roderick warned.
I quickly downed the rejuvenation potion and placed my hands on the magic tool. Only after confirming my hands were securely in place did Roderick withdraw his own, making sure that the mana flow would not be interrupted.
...yipes, my mana!
Even though my overall mana reserve was increasing due to the potion, mana kept flowing from my body whether I wanted it or not. The unfamiliar sensation made me sick to my stomach. However, unless I endured it, we would not be able to protect the people that were entrusted to us by our Lady.
...this is absolutely nothing compared to what the guard knights outside must deal with!
Much like my own, Roderick’s mana was also recovering at an unusually rapid rate, so he looked similarly sick and was breathing heavily with furrowed brows.
"Ah, the feystone’s color has changed,” he mumbled. “Just a bit more."
 Enough of his mana must have recovered, because Roderick replaced his hands on the magic tool after taking a deep breath. A few seconds later, the feystone flashed and a yellow light filled the room. The barrier was complete, and mana stopped flowing from my body.
The moment the cord of tension was cut, I was hit by a wave of exhaustion. I guessed the same went for Roderick, because we both slumped down, putting our hands on the floor to keep ourselves from collapsing completely.
“Lady Philine! Lord Roderick!” The attendants around us exclaimed.
Monika and Nicola pulled me up, while Fran and Gil moved to support Roderick. We both breathed a sigh of relief as they sat us down on the chaise lounge.
"Are you alright?"
" ...the High Bishop’s room is secure now,” I stated. “We did it, Roderick."
Roderick looked at the magic tool with a relieved expression, likely thankful that the barrier activated before our mana ran out.
"We have completed our duty,” Roderick replied. “Even Hartmut won't be able to scold us now."
Before leaving, Hartmut had told us, “Although you two will be completely useless in battle, you are still nobles. So, you should be able to activate this magic barrier and protect the commoners that Lady Rozemyne needs.”
“Well done, Lady Philine, Lord Roderick.” Fran smiled appreciatively.
Zahm handed each of us a cup of fruit juice, while the other attendants and the chefs continued to praise us, calling us “amazing.” Hearing their words of appreciation, an indescribable sense of accomplishment filled my heart. Looking at the barrier that we activated with our own mana, I felt proud that I had been able to complete the role entrusted to me.
Then, an ordonnanz soared in.
"This is Judith. I received a message from Damuel. A ship has arrived at the west gate. They have spotted several people wearing silver cloth. I was told to prepare."
The faces of all in the High Bishop's room stiffened. It was finally starting.
"...may victory be ours. May everyone be safe. O mighty King and Queen of the endless skies, O mighty Eternal Five who rule the mortal realm, O Goddess of Water Flutrane, O God of Fire Leidenschaft, O Goddess of Wind Schutzaria, O Goddess of Earth Geduldh, O God of Life Ewigeliebe! We offer you our prayers and gratitude. Praise be to the gods!”
