Chapter 24: Justice and Retribution

Pierre: "Louise, are you sure you don't need an umbrella?"

"Yes. The sun isn't that strong."

The sun is directly above our heads. This spot, the empty space in front of nobles' residential area, not far from Bourdounne Street, with a view of the royal palace a little way up on the hill, is brimming with people.

Nobles from all over the country are seated in rows of long chairs. Some are having conversations; some are looking at the space in the middle where a man is sitting on a wooden chair.

He is dressed in plain clothes with simple colours, not unlike that of labourers, but until a little while ago, he had been the chief of High Court where they resolve conflicts between nobles.

Now, though, he is the one being judged. What awaits him is but nothing a punishment.

The make-shift court is mainly divided into five sections. The center is where the defendant is sitting, and where the witnesses from the waiting area behind him will come out to speak. The waiting area is covered with long curtains and divided into two halves, probably for both sides' witnesses.

The section for nobles spectators, where we're seating, is to the defendant's left side. To his right is the space for commoners spectators where dozens of people in various clothing are squeezed together. In front of him is a raised stone platform, guarded by four magic knights, where many chairs are prepared for the royal council.

Father sighs next to Sister Eléonore, as he looks to the person at the center of the court with somber expression.

Eléonore: "Father, what is the matter?"

Pierre: "Richmond, Chief Justice of the High Court: he began his service around the same time I did. We weren't close, but acknowledged each other as fellow servants to the crown. I did hear rumours about his abuse of power to take bribes, but I never thought he had gone ever further."

Right, Father had been in the circle of nobility for a long time. He knows a lot of people; some already dead, while some ended up like this. For me it would probably be like seeing a student from other class sitting there. That would be quite a shock.

Eléonore: "It's a good thing Mother isn't here with us."

Pierre: "Don't bring that up. I'm trying not to picture it." Father crosses his arms, scowling.

Mother who was a captain of a royal guard squad and hates rule-breakers more than anything. If she is here with us...I'll probably be sitting at the edge of my seat the entire proceeding.

Official: "Her Majesty the Queen Henrietta has arrived!"

The court official declares as a train of carriages led by Princess's arrives.

Four carriages stop simultaneously, and the people inside comes out.

Princess leads the way, flanked by Cardinal Mazarini on her left, and...an unfamiliar woman with a sword at her waist and white cape on her back on her right. About ten nobles of the royal council trail after them.

Everyone on my side stand up from the seat while the train of court nobles take their seats on the chairs in front of the platform. Only one of them goes to the table just in front of noble's spectator—Ah.

"Prince Wales!?"

Eléonore: "The one behind the prosecution's desk? First time I see him."

Oh, right. Of course Sister wouldn't know his face. Even I only met the real Prince Wales when I went on the mission. At the party three years ago I only got a glimpse of him from afar. Father was there too, though I don't know if he's familiar with the prince since then; he hasn't said anything.

Everyone seems to be getting to their seat; Princess walks up the stairs and sits on the chair at the center of the platform, with padded seat and backrest. Cardinal Mazarini sits on the smaller chair to her left; the sword carrying-woman stands behind Princess to the right.

The rest of us sit back down.

There are only three people on the higher platform: Princess, Cardinal, and the woman, which means the woman must be someone important.

"Father, the woman at Her Majesty's right, who is she?"

Pierre: "I've never seen her before as well. The emblem on her cape belongs to a royal guard, but she's carrying a sword."

Eléonore: "Isn't she the one in the letter; the royal guard squad that has just been formed?"

Pierre: "Ah, you're right. The royal guard squad that Her Majesty arranged the formation of herself, consisting entirely of female commoners: the Musketeer Squad, I heard."

Father frowns, probably thinking the same thing I do, that a commoner shouldn't be allowed on the same elevation as the Queen, and above all nobles at that.

Princess has to have her reasons, of course, but there's no denying the fact that a deep-rooted tradition has been breached, and that's sure to attract negative attention.

Nobles: "What's up with that woman; how could she be standing behind Her Majesty?" "She's carrying a sword! Not a wand-sword! She's a commoner!" "How could Her Majesty have allowed such transgression? What is she thinking?"

There it is. Indignation and curiosity—mostly the former. I experienced that myself too, when I had Luka sit at the dining table, but the settings and standings are on a completely different level this time.

Official: "Ahem."

The voice comes from the court official sitting at the table an angle from the court nobles' seats.

Official: "Please quiet down; the court will begin soon."

The talking dies down. Having confirmed that, the court official receives a roll of parchment from one of the royal court's noble, unrolls it, and reads its content aloud.

Official: "In the name of Her Majesty the Queen Henrietta de Tristain, the trial to determine the guilt on the charge of treason for the Chief Justice of High Court, Richmond, is now in session. "

There are no clapping or even standing in salutation; this is not a theatre play. If we're not out in open, I'm sure the air would be so heavy it's hard to breathe.

Prince Wales stands tall, sweeps his gaze across everyone in the court, from Princess to the defendant in the chair, then finally sets his eyes straight.

Wales: "I am Wales Tudor. As of now, I am but a simple scion of a noble bloodline. For my lack of apparent relation to the defendant, I have been chosen to lead the prosecution in this trial. I hereby swear to present all the evidences and testimonies that have been obtained in the investigation under the scrutiny of the court."

The whisperings erupt around me, and from the commoners' area.

Words, tones, gestures: they all carry an undeniable weight behind them. So this is the court of law; this is the first time I see one.

Prince Wales himself doesn't show nervousness at all, even though he must be aware of the many people in here who don't take well to his presence. If it's me I'll be tripping over my lines.

The court official looks at Princess, whose authority he represents. Princess nods, and the official faces the court again.

Official: "May the prosecution begin its opening statement."

Prince Wales nods. Then he begins, accusing the man in the middle of the room of treason, conspiring with Albion to abduct Princess, and other minor charges.

The accused also apparently had been doing other dirty deeds in secret over the years, like taking bribes, as Father said. It's a good riddance then.

Wales: "Some of the charges may seem unrelated, but the prosecution believes it can prove the correlation between all of them over the course of this trial."

Luka: "Hey, Louise."

"What is it? We're in a trial; be quiet." Seriously, Luka; every single time. When are you going to learn when and where to not do something.

Luka: "I'm just going to ask about the trial. Prince takes care of the victim's side, so shouldn't someone do the same with the accused too?"

"Ha? What kind of question is that, who would take the culprit's side?"

Luka: "Wait, that can't be right. We're doing the trial to see if he's really guilty or not, aren't we? Then he shouldn't be officially considered guilty yet."

"...Of course I know that." I just forgot for a moment, because there's no way Princess is condemning an innocent.

"Sister."

Eléonore: "What is it? Can't you stay still for a second? We are in the court of law."

But this idiot started it first...! I knew she would say that; I would have asked Father if she isn't sitting between us.

"I'm just curious; Prince Wales is leading the prosecution, but why isn't there anyone on the defendant's side. The 'lawyer' I mean?"

Eléonore: "You know some difficult word."

"I know at least that much." Though no more than that; no need to tell Sister.

Eléonore: "It's true every defendant, regardless of charges, has a right to a lawyer. But in this case, finding one wouldn't be easy. The royal court will have to have conducted a very thorough investigation before putting someone on trial to not lose face. Even if someone were to take on the defense, the fighting chance is going to be very slim. It's the lawyer who would be facing suspicion and criticism later."

"Is that so... But that guy is the Chief of the High Court; wouldn't he at least have someone to help him, like close aides?"

Eléonore: "How would I know. But it's as you say; this Richmond is the Chief Justice of the High Court. I don't know about his aides, but he himself must be quite formidable."

"Even though he was caught red-handed?"

Eléonore: "I wonder about that. The world of nobility isn't as easy as a shrimp like you think."

"Uu..." I got chided again...

Prince Wales just finished presenting the evidences; his hands are holding some sort of documents.

Wales: "That Richmond and the Albion's spy had been in contact is thus proven beyond doubt. The prosecution believes the evidences thus far are enough to prove the guilt of the defendant."

Prince Wales turns to the court official. The official nods, and turns to the defendant.

Official: "May the defendant begin his defense."

The court is silent. The whisperings have all but disappeared; it's as if everyone is holding their breaths.

Richmond stands up without hurry, composed.

Richmond: "Your Honor, I have a few questions regarding the evidences and the claims of the prosecution."

Richmond turns to face Prince Wales with a small smile.

The main evidences Prince Wales has presented are documents and letters which show that Richmond had been in contact with several of Albionian nobles over the years. There are also several valuable objects sent to him as gifts from them.

Richmond: "I have been interested in foreign cultures for a long time. What you have brought up as evidences from my mansion are all my collections and the letters I have amassed over the years of sharing my hobby with fellow cultural enthusiasts across the lands."

Richmond explains clearly and smoothly; if I don't have full faith in Princess since the beginning I'll probably consider the truth of his story.

Wales: "The prosecution does not deny the claim. Lord Richmond may truly like socialising with foreigners; what the prosecution believes to be significant to the trial are two names found on the letters."

Prince holds up two letters. They look normal. I can't make out the details from this far, but they don't look too old.

Wales: "Duke of York, and Count of Somerset. These names likely do not hold immediate significance for those present here, but to me they hold deep meanings."

Richmond: "Then would the esteemed prosecutor be the one to give statements? I have not known that was how Albion conducts its trials."

I don't even know how they do it here, but Richmond's tone makes it clear that was sarcasm.

Wales: "You need not be worried. In Albion the prosecution has the same duty as it does here; stating the charges and supporting them with witnesses and evidences. And so I will have the witness testify in this matter."

Richmond drops his smile; the first time since he had started speaking. His eyes watch Prince Wales, who turns to speak with the court official.

Wales: "The prosecution would like to call the witness who can testify to the significance of the names of two nobles in contact with the defendant: the former commander of the flagship of Albion's air navy, Henry Bowood."

...Wait, wouldn't that be one of the soldiers we fought at Tarbes? The ones there to capture Prince Wales himself?

The whisperings erupt amongst the noble. Not surprising, since even I am taken aback.

Nobles: "An Albionian! Moreover, a war prisoner! How could they let such a man testify in an important matter?!" "This is supposed to be an esteemed court in Her Majesty's name! Those damn Albion's dregs!"

Prince Wales does not falter at all, but I'm so tense I can hardly breathe; I can hear every word sitting here.

Luka watches the proceedings intently, but his hands are lightly clenched on his thighs. So he feels tense just as I do. That makes me a bit relieved.

I need to clear my head. I need to watch this. Trust in Princess and Prince Wales. They know what they have to do.

The curtain of the witness's area flaps, and a man in plain clothes comes out, flanked by two soldiers. He goes to stand at the witness stand in the middle of the court.

Wales: "Witness, state your name and occupation."

Bowood: "Henry Bowood, currently serving as a prisoner of war. I used to hold the position of the commander of Lexington, once a flagship in New Albion's air navy, Lord Wales."

It's a middle-aged man with calm disposition. He is quite similar to Prince Wales in that regard; maybe because they were both in Albion's military.

Wales: "Sir Henry Bowood, you claim you are no longer part of Albion's army, is that correct?"

Bowood: "That it is. I heard that New Albion has shown no interest in paying for our ransom, and so I have no ties to the army of the floating country anymore. You can be certain of that."

The man speaks in flat tone, but the words themselves give off an aura of respect toward Prince Wales. ...Could he actually support the royal faction deep down? Then why fought for the nobles faction?

Wales: "First of all I would like to make sure of your relation with the defendant. Did you know the defendant personally or indirectly before this trial?"

Bowood: "I did not. Today is the first time I see his face and hear his name."

Prince Wales nods.

Wales: "Then please testify to the court as to what kind of figures Duke of York and Count of Somerset are in Albion."

Bowood goes silent, as if organising his words. After a while, he speaks again.

Bowood: "I considered myself a soldier: the wand and the shield of the king, or whoever the ruler is. I refrained from involving myself in politics, and so my knowledge is rather limited. However, what I will speak now is what I am certain of. Somerset was one of the first to openly rebel against the royal family, along with the commander of the fleet I belonged to, under the leadership of Crom—Oliver Cromwell."

That's the name of the leader of Reconquista. Someone whose face I don't even know had brought a royal family to its end. That feels very surreal.

Bowood: "Duke of York joined the nobles faction two months after the rebellion started. I can still remember the plan. We were ordered to take our fleet and chase after the royal faction's army, then Duke of York would bring his army to flank them at Port Scarborough. Duke of York proceeded to do as planned. Ultimately, the royal faction's army managed to escape despite suffering significant damage. That is all I know about these two names."

Wales: "Thank you for the clear testimony." Prince Wales nods.

Half of the voices that condemned Prince Wales are now having discussions about the testimony of the witness. That takes a bit of the tension off my chest.

Wales: "His testimony is supported by the report meticulously kept by the Tristain's military itself, and so is very credible. Thus it is proven that the Albionian nobles the defendant had been in contact with have been supporters of the new Albion's goverment."

That...seems kind of weak, to be honest. After all, I was Wardes's fiancé, but I'm definitely not on his side.

The court official nods, then speaks with Richmond.

Official: "Does the defendant wish to question the witness?"

Richmond: "It is not necessary. What the witness has testified to was a fact of a faraway country; it has nothing to do with me and thus there is no need for me to argue."

Official: "Then the court will accept the testimony. Does the witness has anything else to add?"

Bowood: "That is all, Your Honor."

Official: "Then the witness may step down."

Bowood leaves the witness stand and goes with the soldiers. At the last second before he reaches the witness area he glances back to Prince Wales, then disappears behind the curtain. That probably has some meaning I'm not able to grasp.

Richmond: "Your Honor. I may have no objection with the earlier testimony, but that does not mean I accept the accusations."

Official: "May you proceed with your statements."

Richmond: "I have a few questions I would like to ask the prosecution. The letters you have in your hands at the moment: what is the dates on it?"

The dates?

Prince Wales reads our the dates: they're all from three years ago, around the Month of Wynn(12th) and Month of Cen(10th). What does that—Oh...

Richmond: "Those were the latest from them, were they not?"

Wales: "We have not found one which was dated any later than these."

Richmond: "Then those letters prove nothing at all. The rebellion had only begun in full swing during the last two years. The letters in your hands were indeed the proof of my contact with them; however, they were between fellow cultural enthusiasts, without any political implication. I have had no more contacts with them since the civil war began."

The whisperings grow louder. It's getting tense again.

Your Highness, please don't falter.

Wales: "Your logic is sound: the letter written before the rebellion started would be far from adequate as a proof...assuming the date in the letters were genuine, of course."

The murmurs grow.

Amidst the confusion and questions from Richmond, Prince Wales flips one of the letters toward himself and reads.

Wales: " 'Thank you truly for the tapestries the other day. Such colourful natural pattern has become impossible to find in Albion as of late. They have brightened my reception area considerably.' "

The prince puts the letter down...

...Eh?

Richmond: "I do not see your point." Richmond says, as confused as I and many others.

Wales: "Of course you do not, or you will have destroyed this letter already."

Prince Wales still keeps his smile.

Wales: "What Count of Somerset stated in this letter is true. In the present, tapestries with complex patterns are not being made in Albion anymore. Many skilled weavers that the Albion's royal court hired and even more renowned ones were imprisoned or executed for supporting the royal family. Numerous tapestries were burnt for containing imagery praising the royal family. This fact can be easily proven with reports from multiple sources."

...I think I get it now, though I can't put it into words yet.

Others, like Sister Eléonore only nods to herself without changing expression. Father strokes his beard thoughtfully. But Luka is still blinking in confusion.

At least I'm not the most oblivious one this time.

But the person with the most stakes in this, Richmond, definitely see where this is going, because he has paled a little.

Wales: "That brings us to an important point. The decline of Albion's weaving industry happened after the start of civil war. Thus, any mention pertaining such facts would have to have been made after the war had started for quite some time. Consequently, that means the date on the letter has to have been faked."

All the eyes are on Richmond at the center of the court, waiting for an answer.

Richmond doesn't spend any time thinking.

Richmond: "It is as the esteemed prosecutor says. I shall admit the letter was only sent to me last month. But, as I have stated, my relationship with the sender is no more than someone who shares a hobby; entirely personal, without political baggage. Unless you can somehow prove that there are underlying political meanings hidden in it?"

Wales: "The prosecution cannot, but if so then why the need for such trickery?"

Richmond: "Most likely because he feared I would fall under suspicion."

Wales: "Then Count of Somerset truly has the foresight, as you are very much suspected right now."

The words and tones are still polite, but there's undoubtedly a metaphorical battle going on between the prince and Richmond's stares.

Wales: "Well, as I have stated at the beginning: these simply are circumstantial evidences. Let us get to the main point. Your Honor, the prosecution would like to bring up the incident which had led to the arrest of the defendant."

Official: "Does the defendant wish to question the prosecution more on the current topic?"

Richmond: "I have said what I have to say, and I have seen that the prosecution does not possess the proof that can conceivably prove my guilt."

Richmond exudes an aura of calm and disdain. He doesn't look rattled at all.

The main charge, as being spoken by Prince Wales, seems to be as covered in the letter sent to our house: the attempt abduction.

The Albion's spy confessed that Richmond was helping him, but the confession alone wouldn't be enough to prove his guilt. It's true he could have lied. This is difficult.

Wales: "And so Her Majesty and her aides had produced a plan to catch the traitor, and the plan have brought the defendant to the court today, in a crime that the defendant was caught in the act."

We're finally getting to the main point. I can't miss this!

Wales: "At three o'clock in the afternoon of the Day of Void, the Week of Heimdallr, the Month of Nyd (The 1st day (rest day) of the 2nd week of the 6th month), the defendant had hired an armed group and ordered an attack on the investigation team as they were making the arrest of the Albion's spy, during which Her Majesty the Queen was also present."

W—What!?

Nobles: "What!? Is that true!?" "Her Majesty was there, and he still ordered an attack?! I can't believe it!" "Isn't that a malicious intent against the Queen?!" "This is too serious of an accusation to be made lightly!"

The court understandably erupted. The voices jumble together in a mess that no one can possibly make out.

...It suddenly quieted down.

People seem to still be talking frantically, but I can't hear a thing. What happened? Is something wrong with my ear or...No, the people seem to realise what is wrong and gradually stop.

...The sounds came back.

Official: "Order in court. May the prosecution continue."

Oh. So it was a Silence spell. I didn't know who cast it, but it was a really effective way to calm the commotion.

Prince Wales describes the plan to catch the traitor, but it's a bit too complicated for me. Basically, they lure the culprit with false information. Richmond had informants all over the city, so it was effective.

Wales: "So did Richmond come to believe that Her Majesty was going to the hideout in secret in order to arrest the spy."

So, the culprit was successfully lured to the scene: a grand theatre in the capital. I've never been there so I don't know how it looks like.

His name is all over the place, but Richmond still keeps a stern face. He is really hard to crack.

Wales: "Her Majesty revealed herself and had the Albion's spy arrest in the middle of the theatre. Richmond, anticipating the outcome beforehand, acted. In order to prevent his downfall, he had only two options at the time: prevent the arrest, or silence the spy."

Looking from afar, Richmond still keeps his expression, but his eyes seem to be boring into Prince Wales, who continues his speech.

Wales: "We may never know the choice he made, but the defendant ordered the mages he had disguised as the actors on the stage to attack Her Majesty's group. The Musketeer Squad that had planted themselves amongst the audience beforehand killed the hired mages before they could release their spells, and so the true target of the attack was not known. Because of the unclear circumstance, the prosecution had decided not to press charge of an attempt assassination on the Queen."

...

Not just me, many other nobles are speechless. Any of those events in itself was enough to upset the society and the government, and they happened twice, thrice in a row, yet none of us were even aware of them until it all ended. Moreover, no mages were involved in the plan. Wouldn't other royal guards feel slighted by this?

Wales: "The Musketeer Squad chased Richmond out of his hiding place. Richmond used a secret tunnel under the theatre to escape. For clarification, the tunnel connects the theatre to the defendant's residence. However, I and the captain of the Musketeer Squad caught up to and detained him on the way."

Prince Wales didn't gesture to anyone in particular, but the gazes of the people in the court go to the woman standing beside Princess.

I'm only really looking at her now: she is a tall woman, over twenty years of age, with shoulder length blonde hair and a sharp pair of blue eyes. She has an average, clean face for a woman, but with the knight's uniform and posture, she looks more like a beautiful man.

Despite all the stares she gets, her face doesn't even twitch. There seems to be only this kind of stoic people today.

Wales: "Such was what transpired on the day of the second incident. To prevent his part in the attempt abduction from coming to light, the defendant had ordered his hired hands to attack the Queen's group. The witnesses are the entire Musketeer Squad, as well as a small number of regular guests attending the show on that day."

...The story seems to be holding up well, in my eyes. But I'm not an expert on legal matters.

"Father, how is it? Is it going well?"

Pierre: "The investigation and the plan were quite thorough, especially considering they were planned and executed by only Her Majesty and her close aides. The only obvious flaw I can see is the fact that no other nobles share a part in it."

"Huh? ...Does that really matter? There were a lot of people there, and Her Majesty was there herself." The other royal guards might feel left out, but that doesn't have anything to do with the trial, does it?

Pierre: "If it was a normal court proceeding, it would not, but this trial has a special purpose. Well, just watch for now. You'll understand it better seeing it for yourself."

Special purpose? What is that?

Official: "May the defendant question the prosecution."

Richmond: "There is no need," Richmond answers immediately while shaking his head. "because the prosecution's argument is a farce that can never be proven. The witnesses you spoke of belong to the so-called investigation team; they all held prejudice against me."

That's the strongest words from Richmond since the start of the trial. Ugh...looks like it's going to get serious from here on.

Wales: "So you would claim there was foul play."

Richmond: "I know of my innocence, thus it is only natural to assume such. In the first place, such possibility must always be considered, and removed, in the court of law. Though I would not fault the prosecution for not performing his duty to perfection, considering his short career."

That...That was definitely a slight at Prince Wales. The prince himself looks unaffected though.

Wales: "I have expected you would say as much. To argue on the credibility of witnesses will simply waste the court's time. Your Honor, the prosecution wishes to call a witness to testify to the fact of the events on the day of the crime. This witness is a person who, without a doubt, has no ties to Tristain's nobles society."

Then it would have to be a commoner. Would that really work?

Wales: "The prosecution calls the student of Tristain Magic Academy who happened to be at the scene of the crime. The daughter of the House of Zerbst."

...

Hahhhhhh!?~~~~

Kirche: "..."

The curtain flaps, and she, that Zerbst, saunters out, with the usual confident smile, in the usual school uniform, flaunting around the usual big busts(Tch!) like no one's business.

Nobles: "A Germanian?" "Look at her skin, there's no mistake!" "A Germanian and an Albionian one after another; what is it with this court!?"

But even with all those remarks, there are still a lot of men who keep quiet and watch the Zerbst without blinking. Even the people who say those lines are staring themselves.

There's no difference between the kids and the adults. They're all enthralled by the Zerbst's wiles. Damn her.

Pierre: "So that is the daughter of Von Zerbst." Father is staring too, but not in that way. If he is I'm definitely going to tell Mother.

Eléonore: "So that's your friend."

"We're not friends."

Eléonore: "Then why is she winking this way."

"...Dunno."

Actually I do.

Pinch.

Luka: "Ouch! What was that for?"

"Teaching a dog with wandering eyes a lesson."

Luka: "I didn't do anything!"

"You should've looked away."

Luka: "What the heck!? So unreasonable!?"

Pinch...!

"Ouch! Sister?!"

Eléonore: "Scamp, we are in the court! Quiet down."

But stupid Luka started it! No, actually that Zerbst started it, but the idiot also let her!

Wales: "May the witness state her name and occupation."

Kirche: "Kirche Augusta Frederica von Anhalt-Zerbst, pleased to be of service."

That wench Zerbst speaks in polite voice and curtsies gracefully, even putting on a cordial smile.

Pretense, all of it!

Nobles: "What is this; so she does have some manner." "At least she's passable for a noble." "Some would say that is a charming young girl. Not I, of course." "Such a...mature looking girl. How old is she; is she really a student?"

They're all falling for her trickery! Damn her!

Wales: "Lady Zerbst, you were at the scene of the incident on the day Richmond was arrested. Please tell the court what you witnessed."

Kirche: "With pleasure."

Luka: "So Kirche can be reserved like that too."

Pinch.

Luka: "Ouch! What is it this time?"

"Too easy. Just a few sweet gestures and you're caught in her trap."

Luka: "It's not like that. I'm just saying what I see."

Pierre: "You don't need to pay your familiar any mind, Louise."

Father?

Pierre: "The Zerbsts have always been like that; more of actors than nobles, spinning lies and trickeries to fool those unaware of their true nature. The daughter is no different from the father." Father stresses the last part a bit more than usual.

Eléonore: "I remember hearing it from Jerome; the head of the House of Zerbst once tried his charm on Mother, didn't he?"

"Eh? Is that true? I didn't know that."

Pierre: "Don't talk about that, Eléonore; I don't want to hear it." Father is very annoyed. It seems to be quite a sore topic for Father.

Well, I can understand that, since THIS Zerbst has been doing exactly the same thing to—my familiar! A familiar! Of mine!

Oh, Zerbst already finished saying her piece. I missed a lot.

What did she say again? She said it was a school break so she went to watch a play with three friends—probably Guiche, Tabitha, and Montmorency. It was a coincidence they were there when it happened. By chance, Guiche saw Richmond as he was signaling the actors on the stage to attack.

Then...probably after the short fight between the Musketeer Squad and Richmond's men, and Richmond fled through the secret tunnel, Kirche and Tabitha helped open its entrance. They all stayed there until Prince Wales and the Musketeer's captain brought Richmond back, then they returned to school. That's roughly what happened. If there were any other details, I missed them.

Wales: "Thank you for your cooperation, Lady Zerbst."

Kirche: "If it would benefit the justice of this land, I am glad."

Tch!

Though it irks me a bit to rely on the Zerbst, she really is a conclusive witness.

Official: "May the defendant question the witness."

Richmond nods; he doesn't smile as he faces Zerbst.

Richmond: "Lady von Zerbst, I am curious: you are a Germanian noble; why do you involve yourself in Tristain's affair? Is there a particular reason for this?"

Kirche: "Be it Tristain or Germania, if someone commits a crime, they deserve to be judged. That is what I believe, and it is by that belief I am giving this court my full cooperation."

Richmond: "A good vision to have, but according to your testimony, the one who claimed to have seen I gave order to the Albion's mercenaries is the boy from the House of Gramont. Why are you testifying in his stead?"

Ugh, that's a logical thing to ask. It's small, but some are discussing about it.

Wales: "I can answer the question. Guiche de Gramont is a son of Field Marshal, and thus, he could conceivably had ties to some of the people involved in the incident. To prevent complications, I had arranged for Lady von Zerbst to be the representative of her group. She has testified not in Sir Gramont's stead, but of what she herself saw and heard during the incident, have you not, Lady von Zerbst?"

Kirche: "Indeed, I have. I saw my good friend Guiche looked to the side just before the fight started, and when I looked there after my friend pointed his finger in the same direction, the man currently in the center of the court was indeed right there. My friend also said he saw the man made some kind of gestures, but of course I cannot verify if what he said was true, as I did not see it myself."

Zerbst remained calm through out the entire exchange. She exited the stage, with many looking after her even as she went back behind the curtain. Ugh...I don't want to admit it, but she really is good at this.

Wales: "Her testimony conclusively put the defendant at the scene of the crime."

Richmond: "It did not, however, prove that I am related to what happened in any way. As I have stated before, I am interested in the various cultures of the world. That I was at the theatre that day was simply part of that excursion."

Wales: "And what of the secret tunnel that leads to your private residence?"

Richmond: "I will admit I had ordered for it to be built as part of my information gathering. I realised it is against the law, and am willing to accept punishment for it. However, that is all I will admit to. I know nothing of the Albion's spy and his activity. Unless the prosecution has proof that I allowed the spy to use the tunnel?"

Wales: "We have no such proof."

Wait, really? That's his explanation for the tunnel? The secret underground tunnel, of all things? There's no way anyone would believe that, is there? Why does Prince Wales look like he accepted it already?

Eléonore: "Don't look around like that, shrimp. It's distracting and embarrassing."

"! I'm sorry, Sister, but..."

Eléonore: "You're probably thinking the defendant's argument was too weak or something. But reality is what is happening before your eyes. Yes, the argument was weak, but the one making it was a noble of great standing. He has reputation, and thus credibility. Trials between nobles, if they aren't clear-cut since the beginning, almost always come to a contest of whose words are more credible."

Sister gestures at the defendant at the middle of the court.

Eléonore: "And that man, Richmond, would know that the best. He's the Chief of the High Court where those very trials are conducted, after all."

Pierre: "That's not all." Father? "I said earlier this trial has a special purpose, didn't I? This trial goes beyond a judgment of a crime. It will be an important step to solidify Her Majesty's rule. It will show her, and her close confidants' capability, striking fear into the potential traitors and reassuring the supporters."

Yes, he did say that. So this is what he meant?

Pierre: "However, there is one significant problem in this."

"What is it?" I can barely follow all of this. I'll just take in what I can for now.

Pierre: "The operation was performed almost entirely by the new royal guard squad. In the eyes of influential nobles, almost all of which men, this is a contest between a nobleman of high reputation and a group of upstart commoner women who had recently been granted prestige. The success of this trial will have an impact on their perceived superiority over commoners and women"

Is that so? I don't really see it that way at all...But if Father says so, it must be true; he knows the nobles society better than I do.

Pierre: "Imagine one side as Tristanian nobles, and the other as Germanians who bought their noble positions with money but are not mages themselves."

Now I do. Yeah, I wouldn't want those Germanians to win.

Pierre: "While single women have gradually become more common in small positions in recent years, like Eléonore, no nobles will accept the idea that commoners can be their equal in any way."

...I see. That's a sentiment I know well. Honestly, I still think so too, about nobles and commoners. ...If I hadn't met Luka, I probably wouldn't even be thinking about this.

Pierre: "So, to make it all stand, this trial has to run perfectly, giving the defendant every chance to defend himself, and striking all of them down, leaving no doubt as to the defendant's guilt in anyone's mind."

"That sounds difficult." And bothersome. What if something just can't be perfectly proven no matter what? Like, if the evidence was destroyed, and only a few witnesses remain?

Pierre: "It is very difficult. However, it is a bridge that many past kings had crossed before."

So that's it. This is more than just a trial to decide someone's guilt. It's not only justice. It's politics.

I can barely wrap my mind around it. Princess has to deal with something so mind-boggling so early in her rule...I only hope she has capable and trustworthy people by her side.

Wales: "...if you wish to claim the lack of credibility of my witnesses, there needs to be more bases for it..."

Richmond: "The number is deceiving; over half of your witnesses are commoners, and..."

The argument between Prince Wales and Richmond has been going on for some time. Richmond started to scowl. I don't know what he's irritated about, but he's not as calm as before. This will probably end soon, one way or another...

Richmond: "You claimed earlier my motive for turning my back on the motherland was for my own profit; a claim which I denied. To claim someone such as I, who has served the kingdom loyally for over thirty years, has betrayed my own country, would require proofs that satisfy both the court and the spectators. For that, accounts from biased witnesses consisting of commoners and foreigners are not enough."

Just as Sister predicted, Richmond brings out the matter of his credibility over the witnesses.

And according to Father, the noblemen will be more inclined to agree with Richmond... I'm already seeing some amongst the spectators nodding, some hesitantly, some backed with emotions.

Official: "Order in court."

The argument was looking to escalate, so the court official stops it.

Official: "Does the prosecution wish to present their case for the defendant's motive next?"

Wales: "Most certainly."

Prince Wales looks past the court official in Princess's direction for a moment before turning his gaze back to Richmond.

I've never been to any other court before, but I can feel it on my skin: this is it. As His Highness tried to corner his opponent, Richmond tried to evade, but they're all going to end soon.

Wales: "The prosecution maintains that the defendant had conspired with Albion's government against Tristain for his own benefit; a claim that can be backed up by reviewing the thirty years of service the witness himself is so proud of."

Prince Wales calmly arranges some documents on his desk, then picks up a piece of paper about the size of a book's page. Paper, not parchment; so, not an official document.

He reads its content aloud.

Wales: "Chief Inspector: twenty thousand écus."

...Huh?

Wales: "Two Inspectors: five thousand écus each."

Prince Wales proceeds to say more names and numbers, all of which makes no sense to me.

Wales: "Do you know what this is?"

Richmond: "I do not." He does, because he is forcing his mouth in as straight a line as he could. It's clear even looking from where I'm sitting.

Wales: "It was quite recent from what I have been informed, but if you have truly forgotten about it then I will help you remember. What I have listed thus far is the amount of money you gave to the personnel involved in the appraisal of your performance and conduct, in order to maintain your position as the Chief of the High Court, just a few months ago."

Richmond opens his mouth to argue.

Wales: "Before you claim otherwise; the people in the list had all confessed to the fact. I have their signatures right here in this paper, as well as their promise that they would appear in this court were there a need to call on them."

Richmond clenches his mouth shut; his face reddened. The talking amongst the spectators grows louder, until the court official demand silence.

Official: "The court would like the prosecution to explain how this piece of information is relevant to the case at hand."

Wales: "The amount of money the defendant had allegedly given as bribe in such a short amount of time totaled at seventy thousand écus: an unbelievable amount for the defendant's annual salary. This would imply that the defendant has other source of incomes. However, the defendant operates no other business, and so the incomes must have come from unidentified sources."

Richmon: "You...! You have no proofs! Your accusation is baseless! This is a slight on my good name!"

Richmond shows clear anger now. He might be acting, or he might really be desperate.

Wales: "If we were to investigate all of your activities, I believe we will find traces or even evidences of bribes easily. However, to gather enough for them to hold significant weight in the trial at hand would require too much effort. And so, the prosecution would like to present a single, much more conclusive evidence of your character instead."

The prince opens a book, and continues without leaving any opening for a protest.

Wales: "I have in my hand an official report on the suppression of the rebellion in the Angle region twenty years ago."

Did something just moved at the corner of my vision?

The woman beside Princes, the captain of the new royal guard squad: did she move, or were my eyes just playing tricks?

Wales: "Twenty years ago, at D'Angleterre, the coastal region on the west of Tristain where the immigrants from Albion had settled down and successfully gained autonomy from Tristain's government. As all of the denizens in D'Angleterre were all believers of the New Belief, Romalia, which at the time was fervently against other beliefs, had put pressure on Tristain's government to put them down with force."

That's before I was born; something I don't know, but what a lot of adults seems to at least have some knowledge of, looking at the recognition in their eyes..

Wales: "Tristain at the time was in no position to openly refuse Romalia's demand, so the discussion was held on how to response to the demand, and the decisions was made that they would send force to occupy D'Angleterre and force them to abandon their faith. The responsibility went from hand to hand, none willing to take on such heavy burden, until it reached a certain official."

Prince Wales stops, and just that short moment is enough for us to realise who he is talking about.

Wales: "The defendant, who at the time had just been promoted to the position of Chief of the High Court accepted the duty of suppressing D'Angleterre, and was given the freedom to choose the method at will. However, rather than sending the force to occupy the region as per the consensus, he claimed that a pandemic had broken out in the region, sent out a subjugation unit consisting entirely of mages, who then burnt the entire region to ground, along with all of its people."

That's...That's horrific... Burning the entire settlement and its people: that's considered cruel even during the great wars of the past. If it were to happen now...That's unthinkable.

But someone who was capable of that is sitting in front of my eyes right now. ...This is surreal.

Wales: "The defendant was investigated for misconduct, but the investigation was dropped without any punishment, with the reasoning that the defendant had been given the freedom of methods in the first place, and that the claim of pandemic could not be conclusively disputed."

...Now I know why what had been nagging at my mind since earlier: why would he do all that? Burning people to death, putting himself under investigation; there's no benefit to him or anyone at all.

Prince Wales produces more documents, proving Richmond had bribed the investigation team to drop the issue. Yet more bribes. Geez, is it all about money for these officials?

Wales: "A few members of the investigation committee at the time had also observed that, around that time, the defendant had seemingly come into wealth, the source of which he could not explain. It is the prosecution's belief that the defendant had accepted bribes from then-Romalian officials to slaughter the New Believers."

Oh. That's it. So that's what he has gotten from doing that. Yet more wealth, really? How rotten can he be?

Wales: "I believe that is enough to prove the defendant's character; that of a man willing to abuse his position to receive benefit from foreigners."

The spectators had dropped any pretense of discretion long ago, and are now discussing openly. Richmond who is standing at the center of the court doesn't seem to bother holding his emotion anymore, openly showing animosity to the prince.

Wales: "The defendant was truly cautious, leaving no decisive evidence of his crime. However, with all the circumstantial evidences and witnesses regarding his actions in the past and present, I believe the court would find that there is very little doubt that the defendant is indeed guilty of conspiring with foreigners to abduct the Queen for his own benefit."

The talking is still going on even after the prince was finished. Half of the voice lean toward Richmond being guilty, the other half says the evidences are not enough, then the first half argues that Richmond was caught in the act in the first place.

Official: "Silence."

The talking dies down, but it takes much longer this time.

Official: "Does the defendant wish to raise an objection?"

Richmond: "Of course I do. You, an ignorant outsider, what do you know. I did it for my own benefit, you say? My 'motive' was much more than that! The people of that region were heretics! They were danger to my country! To all of us!"

Richmond had lost all the calm, letting his anger and anxiety on display. He probably realised he's backed in a corner.

Wales: "Your accusation is baseless. Holding faith in the New Belief was considered undesirable by the society at large, but it was not forbidden by law. I am surprised a person of your position would be ignorant of this fact."

Richmond: "Hah! You are the ignorant one! Those heretics were rebels to Tristain! Rebels to Founder! Rebels to humanity! They accepted a devil into their ranks!"

...Eh?

Nobles: "A devil? What does that mean?" "A devil...he means, in the myths?"

...A shiver runs down my spine. I can't help it..

Wales: "What...might that mean?"

Prince Wales flinched, showing the most surprise since the trial began.

Richmond stands upright and grunts in disgust, trying to act calm.

Richmond: "Hmph! I meant what I said. Devils, demi-humans, however you wish to call it; those heretics accepted the enemy to humanity into their group. Thus, they are the enemies to Halkeginia. Well? Is this 'motive' enough for you?"

Sister and Father try to keep their expression still, but I know they must be just as tense inside.

We cannot escape from the truth. Our house may have accepted Sister Chii, but the world outside is not like that at all. That giant bird too, if the truth is out that it's a devil—a monster, it will be hunted down to the end of Halkeginia. The only safe place for it would be in the east, where the elves live.

...Wait.

So...if the truth comes out, that giant bird will have to flee from Halkeginia. And Luka would go with it, wouldn't he? They will never come back here again.

And if the same happens to Sister Chii, she, too, has to flee...

...

I didn't think of that at all...

...No, stop thinking about that. At least for now. Focus on the trial; it's getting to its last stage already.

Wales: "...It is as you say. If the people of that region had accepted a devil into their village, that will be an unforgivable sin. For a faithful servant of Founder Brimir, that is indeed an admissible motive. However, you will need proof."

Richmond: "Proof...of what?"

Wales: "The proof that devils indeed existed on this land, and not simply a thing of legend. Or, at the very least, a proof that the people of D'Angleterre had accepted a demi-human into their settlement. Can you show us the proof?" Prince Wales stares at Richmond with a severe expression.

Richmond: "Of—Of course there is! You just have to search there! At D'Angleterre! You will definitely uncover traces of the demi-human!"

Wales: "Unfortunately, it will be nigh impossible for the 'traces' you speak of to still remain after twenty years. Especially not after the subjugation unit had turned everything to ashes. You were the one to order them to do so, so that the truth of the fake pandemic cannot be verified; have you forgotten about that?"

Richmond: "N...No...That can't..." Richmond is now shaking visibly.

Wales: "Which means you have nothing to base your claim on. Meanwhile, we have a confession by the Albion's spy that you are their contact. The secret tunnel connecting your residence to the hiding place of an Albion's spy, your presence at an attack on the Queen's group: all these still stand. On top of that, we have evidences of your corruption, supporting the prosecution's claim of personal gains being your motive."

Prince Wales say everything with stern and accusing tone; more so than he had been doing in the early stage of the trial.

Wales: "Individually, they might not be decisive, but putting all of them together, the prosecution believes your guilt is clear."

Prince Wales finished his speech, turns to the court official, and takes a short bow. The spectators are murmuring with agreeing tone.

Wales: "That is all. I hope the court finds it enough."

Official: "Does the defendant wish to defend himself further? If not, the court will move on to the verdict."

Richmond: "I will not accept this!"

Richmond glares at the court official, no, at Princess further behind.

Richmond: "I will not accept this sham of a court! The prosecution is unqualified! The evidences are rubbish! You decided on the verdict beforehand! All of this is a pretense! A set-up!"

Official: "The defendant will refrain from unfound accusations against the court, or the court will have to hold the defendant in contempt."

Richmond: "Go ahead then! You're going to have my head regardless! Do whatever you want with me!"

He's desperate now, trying to make himself out to be a victim. If he had tried this earlier, it might've worked, but now, not many people would give him the benefit of doubt."

Richmond: "I have served the kingdom all my life! Since the great King Phillip the Third! I have sent despicable dissenters to gallows! I exterminated the heretics before they became a liability to our country! I protected the peace and order of our land, and this is what I get in return?!"

Henrietta: "Hold you words, Richmond."

...

That wasn't the official. The silence is on another level; even the wind seems to have stopped.

Princess's expression is stern, her eyes hard, her voice sharp; she is just like Prince Wales. Aa, they truly are cousins; they truly are partners.

Richmond stares at Princess, calms his breathing, then smirks in an open mock.

Richmond: "Oh, Your Majesty, why must you do this to me. I have served your father and your grandfather for thirty long years. Why must you torture me with this farce? If you still hold mercy toward me, please end this accursed life of mine."

That bastard...! That's Princess you're speaking to! How dare you...!

Henrietta: "Keep your sarcasm, Richmond. You have made me very disappointed."

Richmond: "I did, Your Majesty? What have this lowly servant done to offend you so?"

He's still going at it!

Henrietta: "On that day, the captain and the former Crown Prince Wales chased after you who had fled through the hidden route, and you turned your wand on them. If I had not insisted that you be caught alive, your life will have ended there."

Richmond: "Your Majesty wish to execute me with grandeur; I am honored."

Henrietta: "I arranged for you to appear in this court, had it opened to public, gathered the witnesses, gave you a week, so I could hear a word of remorse from you. During the course of this trial, the prosecution had given you many opportunities to confess, but you stubbornly refused with poor excuses."

Richmond: "I curse my ignorance, for it yet clouds me from seeing the vastness of Your Majesty's mercy."

Henrietta: "Though you turned your wand against me, I and Mother had known you since we were young. Though you had conspired with the enemy of the kingdom, you have served Tristain for thirty years. Though you have caused many sufferings in your greed, you also have many laudable accomplishments. For that, I gave you the last chance to speak your mind before of all that presents. But now my patience for you has reached its limits."

Richmond tries to say something, but shuts his mouth when Princess points her crystal-headed wand at him.

Henrietta: "In the name of the Royal Family of Tristain, I, Henrietta de Tristain, declare the defendant, Richmond, to be guilty on all charges."

Princess's tone is flat, but it silences all in the court. Even Richmond is speechless, only staring at Princess as though not believing his own ears.

...I can't help but swallow, knowing that the next to come will be the sentence, and there is only one sentence for treason.

Henrietta: "On the charge of abusing his authority for monetary gains, the defendant's property will be seized; four out of five will be sent to the victims of his crimes as compensation, the rest will be claimed by the royal treasury as compensation for the salary that have been paid to the defendant. And on the charge public disturbance and treason against the crown, the defendant will be incarcerated at the prison in Chernobog until the end of his life."

Eh? Prison...? So, not execution?

Everyone seems to be surprised as well. Treasons typically end in execution, as far as I heard.

Henrietta: "Officers, take the defendant to his transport. Bring him back to the jail, and prepare for the transfer."

Two mage knights stationed beside the platform flank Richmond, who seems to just regain his sense then and starts to shout.

Richmond: "Unhand me! I said unhand me!"

The knights pay him no mind. If this was a month ago, the knights will have obeyed for sure, but now that is no longer true; the authority he used to have is no more.

This is the fate of a person who betrayed his own country, his liege.

Richmond: "Henrietta! Don't think this is the end! Cromwell won't stop! Albion's military still vastly outnumbers Tristain! Everyone here will know soon I picked the right choice!"

Laying it all out like that; there's no more hope for him.

The knights drag Richmond out of the court, push him on to an old-looking carriage with barred window and locked door, then close a metal lid on top of the window. Richmond's voice faded.

Henrietta: "I give my thanks to everyone, nobles and commoners, who have gathered here today."

Princess nods to the court official, who nods back.

Official: "The court is adjourned."

The trial that seemed to have stretched on forever has come to a close.

If it takes this much work every time we have a trial, I'm never going into law profession.

{...}

{...}{...}

"Hah!"

Ridiculous.

"Yah!"

Absurd.

"Yaaarghh!"

This is madness.

"...*pant*...*pant*..."

Imprisonment? Absurd. My father, my mother, my siblings, neighbors, everyone, everything I ever knew were burnt away. No thought given. No words heard. So why is the cause of that still alive!?

"Kuh...! Arrghh!"

That piece of trash...! If only I had killed him then...! If I had put my sword through his rotten flesh to the hilt, filling the tunnel with his foul blood...!

"...*pant!*...*pant!*..."

...What use would it be to swing a sword around like madman. Richmond is probably on the carriage heading toward the prison in Chernobog. It's impossible to catch up to now.

"...Haa..."

No, if I really want to, it can be done. Take a horse and a gun...and an axe, rush ahead of the transport, cut down the tree to block the way, and take the chance to shoot him dead. There are probably mage knights guarding the carriage, but if done swiftly, it's not impossible.

...But I won't do it, because that would be betraying Her Majesty.

Her Majesty has granted me a place to live, a job, the title of Chevalier, and more than anything, the chance to take down Richmond with my own hands. If not for Her Majesty, I would have been just one of the commoners squeezed in that spectators box, watching Richmond being judged by some strangers, without any part in it. Or he might even still be out and about.

At least his crimes are exposed.

At least he was shamed before spectators of over hundred, both nobles and commoners.

At least the wrong he had committed against my family and friends is acknowledged as truth by large.

At least that scum will now spend the rest of his life rotting in prison, never to see the light of the day again.

...

"...Krggh...!~"

However I try to convince myself, the rage doesn't go away. However I try to spin it, the truth is that that bastard is still alive. I still haven't killed him with my hands!

...Her Majesty's decision was in no way wrong. She didn't do it to be lenient to Richmond. It was done to keep a good image of her rule, to not be tainted with death since the beginning. If it was a man, ordering an execution would show an image of stern yet strong, decisive king, like Her Majesty's grandfather, two generations before her. But when it's a young girl like her, it would only paint an image of a cruel queen who spilled blood just mere months after her ascension to the throne. It is unfair, but it is reality.

Her Majesty had discussed it with Cardinal Mazarini, and told me, and Prince Wales who supported the death sentence for my sake. And I agreed, to not cause her trouble.

Her Majesty had not done it because she didn't care about my feelings. Her Majesty would not understand, since she didn't go through the same experience, but she definitely did not look down on my feelings. Prince Wales too; they both looked straight in my eyes, sincerely. I believe so.

...But so what. I still didn't get to kill that pig with these hands. This rage is still not quenched. It is still burning here in my chest. Even as I grip the hilt of the sword until my hands ache, the pain in my heart isn't relieved one bit...!

I want to see that scum dies. I want to see his face warped with fear as my sword plunge into his guts. I want to see him suffer like the people that had been wronged...!

...

"...Fuu..."

...What am I doing. Her Majesty has given me a day off to relax. I'm only getting myself more exhausted doing this.

...I don't feel like it at all, but I guess I should go into the town, walk around a bit, for a change of scenery.

It is...from the position of the sun, probably a little before noon.

I've come all the way to the training ground; let's practice a bit more before getting something to eat in the city.

Hands on the hilt, eyes on the dummy. Don't think about all the annoyances; focus, don't rampage around like a beast. Keep the steps tight, sharpen the swing. That's the only way I can hope to contend with a mage.

"...Fu..."

*chop*

One; at the base of the neck.

*chop* *chop*

Two, under armpits, left then right.

*thunk*

Last, chest stab.

"...Fuu..."

Better.

...Still, this is very bland. Going from training with someone to hitting a dummy; the contrast is so stark.

They are probably out patrolling somewhere, or resting. Can't just drag them here. In the first place, someone who has a day off shouldn't go bother people on duty.

Haa. Can't be helped. A dummy will have—

—Huh?

Hm...

"You over there."

The boy stops, and looks this way, raising his eyebrows as if to ask if he was called.

"Yes, you, come here."

The boy approaches hesitantly, probably confused.

Luka: "Uh, what is it?"

From height and face, he's probably around thirteen to fourteen, or maybe sixteen if he's the small type. Posture relaxed, but not flabby; not slouching, but not exactly puffing chest out; wears a cape, but the shirt and trousers look plain, like the ones worn by mercenaries. The only thing noteworthy is the sword hanging on his waist, which looks quite new and of good quality.

He'll do.

"Be my practice partner."

Luka: "Eh—Wah!"

He caught the practice sword thrown at him suddenly, at short distance; his reflex isn't bad.

"I am practicing my sword. Be my partner."

...It doesn't matter who he is: a noble kid playing warrior, a worker's son playing noble, or some knight's kid trying to follow in the father's footsteps. I don't care to know.

Luka: "But...I'm waiting for someone."

"Then I shall help you kill time."

As long as he doesn't fall flat in two hits, everything else doesn't matter.

[...]

"Hah!"

Luka: "..."

*fwp*

Ridiculous.

"Yah!"

Luka: "...!"

*clack*

Absurd.

"Hah!"

*clack*

This boy...could read all of my swings...?

Luka: "..."

No, not all, just rough predictions, as if he's used to fighting against a swordsman like me.

I didn't want to be someone who takes out stress on a kid so I held back, but that was just at the beginning. I've been attacking seriously for the last few swings; more than this would mean going for a kill, yet this boy is taking them all with ease.

Who in the world is this boy?

"...Hey, you have only been defending since earlier. Are you not going to attack?"

Luka: "Eh?" Surprise.

"I hope you are not hesitating because I am a woman. If you are then drop the idea, and come at me with everything you have."

Luka: "Uh, it's not like that at all..."

The boy seems hesitant, at first, but seems to have made up his mind. Then he's flying at me.

Literally.

Most swordsmen, when shortening distance, would take quick steps or just run normally; either way they would place at least one foot on the ground at all time, so they would have a base to stand on. But this boy kicks the ground and comes barreling at me. The distance an adult would have to take seven steps, the boy takes only three.

Was earlier just a coincidence? Is he just being careless? Whichever it is he's made a mistake. Getting himself airborne is just depriving himself of the way to change direction. If I just step aside—

*clack*

"—Kuh...!?"

This boy, that last step was twice as quick. If I really took that step to the side I would have been the one losing balance.

The easy chance to win is lost now. Oh well, I've been on the offensive since the beginning; I'll let the boy have his turn.

The weight behind each hit is average, which is a lot for someone of his size. The speed is top-class, but what really stands out is his movement.

Normal swordsman would move by putting one foot ahead before changing their center of gravity, since that's the most reliable way; you don't lose your balance easily, and once you get the rhythm down the transition will be quick and smooth. But this boy moves around by kicking the ground; when going left to right, or to advance or retreat. He's not just jumping haphazardly either; he has clearly mastered this way of movement.

He eliminated his disadvantage of having shorter step; even against someone taller like me, he can change his angle of attack in an instant. And being as proficient with it as he is, even the opening to be attacked mid-air lessens. The only downside that isn't immediately fixable would be the extreme toll on his stamina, since he needs to expend much more strength for a leap than for a normal step.

This boy...has abnormal stamina too.

Also...as far as speed is concerned, I seem to be a little inferior, because his attack is slowly overwhelming my defense.

What in the world is this boy?

If I don't start my counterattack now it will be too late...!

The boy has gotten into his rhythm; I can aim for the instant he'll close in...

"...!"

*fwp*

Luka: "Wah...!"

He dodged!? And it didn't seem like he anticipated it beforehand. No one should be able to react to that, unless they have exceedingly fast reflex.

No, no matter what this boy does, I'm not going to be surprised anymore.

Just the opposite; I really want to see what else can he do.

[...]

[...][...]

Luka: "Ha!"

"Kuh...!"

*thunk*

That's the end of it; the sound of my sword hitting the ground.

I was expecting a light practice; before I know it, it has turned into a serious duel. One I probably never had a chance since the beginning.

"...Haa...That's it..."

The stature, the age: with all the advantage I had, the differences between men and women doesn't even matter; this is pathetic.

Luka: "...Fuu...I guess we're done?"

No, it's the boy. He was jumping all over as if the ground was on fire, but he's even less out of breath than I am. Even if I hadn't been practicing earlier, the result probably wouldn't be very different.

Luka: "Then I'll take my leave. The people I was waiting for should be coming out soon."

The boy hands the sword back.

But I'm not done yet.

"Wait. I need to talk to you."

I can't let this chance go, or there's no telling when I might see him again.

...But the sun is directly above out heads: noon. We've been sparring for that long? Didn't notice that at all.

...Alright.

"Follow me."

The boy looks surprised that I grab his wrist instead of the sword.

Luka: "Eh? Where to? I'm waiting for someone; if they come out and don't see me I'm going to be scolded."

"I will take responsibility for it. For now, come with me."

He's still confused, but obediently follows me.

Alright, the swords are back in the storage; we're free to go now.

"Get on the horse."

Luka: "Wait, how far are we going?"

"I told you not to worry about it; I will take responsibility for this. Regardless of how a lot of people think of it, I am a captain of Her Majesty's royal guard squad."

Luka: "I already know that."

"You do? Yet you agreed to be my sparring partner. You must be quite confident in your ability."

Luka: "You didn't give me any chance to refuse though..."

"I guess that is true. Hahaha!"

I laugh, and the boy looks baffled; but I'm the one more surprised by it.

I can't believe there's still something to laugh about in a day like this; hard exercise really does help. I guess I can look forward to taking my mind off things in the afternoon, as Her Majesty wishes for me to do.

[...]

[...][...]

Luka: "Hey..."

"What is it?"

Luka: "You have some business with me, right?"

"Right."

Luka: "But, why come here?"

"It is time for lunch; I am hungry."

Luka: "Eh... And it's this place again..."

The boy mumbles something about this restaurant. It's the first time I come here; I chose this place because it looks bright.

"You should be quite starved yourself after expending that much energy. Order whatever you want; I will pay."

Luka: "It's okay; I'm good."

"Do you have plan to eat with your family? You will have to go all the way back to the royal palace; it will be long past lunch time by then. Save yourself the trouble and just eat here."

Luka: "...Well, then..."

The boy orders. The waitress takes ours and goes back. She had a peculiar look as she left, for some reason. Why was that? I'm dressing in plain clothes, not the royal guard uniform. No one should be able to recognise me.

Luka: "Well, about the talk..."

"I will to get to that. Are you in such a hurry? Who were you waiting for exactly?"

Luka: "Well...The correct way to call her would be my master, I guess."

Master? So he's a follower of some noble. I forgot that's possible too.

But this makes it a bit harder... Let's just try it anyway.

"Before I get to the discussion, I will have to ask you—Well, I want to ask you something." Now that I know he's not a noble, there's no need to speak so formally.

"Who taught you the sword?"

Luka: "Taught...Well, a lot of acquaintances. Many of them are good at fighting."

So that's how it is. He learnt from multiple sources; that could explain his unique movements.

"I see. Also, you can relax. My name is Agnes; like you, I was born a commoner." In my mind, I still am, even if I was granted the title of Chevalier.

Luka: "Ah, okay then. My name is Luka. Nice to meet you."

"Hm, pretty well-mannered, aren't you. Nice to meet you too."

So, I just dragged some boy I didn't even know the name of into the city; then we introduced ourselves. That's actually pretty funny.

"I'm pretty confident in my fighting experience. You must've fought a lot yourself too. How long?"

Luka: "Hm...I haven't fought someone seriously for some time, but the first time I was in a real combat was about five years ago."

Five years? Wait, that can't be right. This boy shouldn't be any older than sixteen at most...

"You, how old are you?"

Luka: "Aa..." The boy smiles sheepishly, as if he knew this question was coming beforehand. "Nineteen..."

...What.

"...You're not joking?"

Luka: "I'm serious."

I thought he must be older than he looks, but this is very surprising. There are people who looks young late into their twenties; I've seen four or five of them, so I know this isn't really abnormal or anything.

Still, it became a bit jarring when the difference just about cover the line between a child and an adult. This boy—this guy...This...Ugh...

Luka: "What's wrong?"

"It's nothing...I'm just having trouble deciding." On whether to go the correct way or the way that feels right.

Let's just go the correct way; it probably has fewer problems.

"Hey, aren't you interested in entering the military?"

Luka: "Eh?"

"It's too bad only nobles can be royal guards right now. But your skill is a real deal. Though not by a wide margin, you are still above me, the captain of the Musketeer Squad, and one of the top swordsmen in it. The Musketeer Squad is on its way to prove to Halkeginia that magic is not always invincible. In situations like that, your strength will be very valuable."

Luka: "You mean, you want me to be a soldier?"

"Yes. With your skill, you'll probably get put in one of the top regiments in no time. Your salary will be much higher than whatever odd jobs you're doing with your current employer. You'll have friends too."

Luka: "Uh, thanks for the offer, but I don't really care much about money. I mean, I'm not getting any anyway."

"Not getting any? What do you mean? Don't tell me you're being forced into labour, like a slave?" Halkeginia put a ban on slavery long ago, but that doesn't stop some wretched nobles from using roundabout ways to force someone to submit to them like a slave.

Luka: "No, I'm a familiar."

"Familiar? You mean, the one the mages have? Birds, cats, dragons and the likes?"

Luka: "Yeah, that familiar..."

"But you're..."

...Wait, could he be...

"You...Are you the familiar of Louise de La Vallière?"

Luka: "Aa, yeah. How did you know?"

"Her Majesty told me a lot. Lady La Vallière is her most trusted companion, and has a human as her familiar: a boy Prince Wales has taken quite a liking to."

Luka: "Yeah, that's about right, though I didn't know about Prince taken a liking to me."

"That's all I heard, but I'd guess it's about your fighting skills." Prince Wales did praise the Musketeer Squad for our combat and discipline.

So that's how it is. That's why this boy...this guy dresses like this, and was at the palace. But that means Louise de La Vallière was in an audience with Her Majesty. She did say she wanted to introduce me to her. I guess I missed the chance today; I got to know the familiar instead.

"It's too bad, but at least your ability is acknowledged by some people; better that than being wasted."

Luka: "Thanks. You're pretty good yourself. You're one of the better ones amongst people I've fought."

Ha. I'm the one being gauged instead. Back when I called on him at the training ground I didn't even imagine it would turn out like this at all. Today is a strange day.

Oh, there come our orders. Just the right time; I'm starting to get really hungry from all the talking.

But no matter how starved one is, a faithful servant of Founder Brimir will always pray to him before meal.

"Thank you truly for this humble meal."

Luka: "Thank you for the meal."

Hm? This bo—This guy prayed too? Most people don't do it in establishments. Only the really pious ones like me do it.

But it's risky to ask about it. If he turns out to be a hater of New Belief, it would only sour the mood.

The meal starts. This guy, Luka, eats with ordinarily good manner. He doesn't scratch the plate or put his elbow on the table, but not following every customs there is either.

I see. In terms of skills and manners, he's pretty close to me. I didn't feel anything special when it came from members of our squad, but it's pretty interesting seeing it from a seemingly ordinary looking commoner boy in a strange get-up.

Luka: "Hey, can I ask you something?"

I have to swallow first. I'm a knight now; need to keep up the manner.

"Go ahead."

Luka: "Why did you invite me to be a soldier?"

Why...Wait, actually, why did I do that?

Thinking about it, there were many reasons, but to put it simply, that would be...

"Because Her Majesty granted me that same chance. I wanted to do the same to someone else. Something like that."

Luka: "I see. Yeah, I heard that the princess, uh, the Queen was the one who created the...your squad."

"The Musketeer Squad."

Luka: "The Queen established the Musketeer Squad herself. How did that happen? How did you become the captain?"

Luka asks with genuine curiosity, and interest. Actually, his eyes even seem excited, like a boy asking a knight about his heroic exploits. Is this guy really nineteen?

"Well, if we're looking from my perspective, the start of it would be the night a group of perpetrators tried to abduct Her Majesty..."

He's one of the people Her Majesty trusts. No need to keep every little secret.

"Back then the palace changed their guards more often than usual. My unit which was usually stationed in the city got rotated into the palace with barely any notice. They told us it was an experiment on a new security routine, but the truth was that Her Majesty and her close confidants already knew someone was planning something; the frequent rotation of guards was to make it difficult for the culprit to know which guards to bribe on what day."

Luka: "I see...Oh, so you were already a soldier back then."

"Yeah. There were very few women in the army, especially for commoners whose physical ability is the only thing we have to rely on. But there were some, and they are the current the Musketeer Squad."

Luka: "Ah, that makes sense. I guess they will have to choose from people who they know can fight when forming a royal guard."

This guy doesn't mention how uncommon it is that women are soldiers at all. A strange one, this guy.

"That's correct. We can talk about that later; can I continue?"

Luka: "Oh, of course. Go ahead."

He still has that gleaming look in his eyes. Damn it, this guy, can't he act a little more like an adult? I'm already having trouble trying to convince myself he's not a kid.

"On the night of the incident, I was patrolling the courtyard at the front of the palace. I didn't think anything would out of ordinary at all, until... ..."

Luka: "...?"

...I completely forgot about it. If I'm going to talk about what happened then, I will have to talk about that piece of filth.

Rage comes back into my mind, but something else tops that: the surprise that I had really been rid of the thought about that trash, even if temporarily. I guess I subconsciously wanted to rest my mind too.

"...It was then that a certain noble was going to leave the palace and had me open the gate. It was deep in the night, so I thought it was a bit suspicious."

There's no way I could've forgotten the guy's face. Even if the lamps and the moon were the only source of light I had, I could never miss him. I had to force my mind blank just so I wouldn't stab the filth then and there. Especially when the man talked down on me. That's why I stared at the gate he went through, long after he was gone.

"The noble said he was only out for a bit, and not to lock the gate, so I left it unlocked... Actually I would have to go back on a patrol, but I...kind of ditched it."

Luka: "Huh?"

"I ditched the patrol, just for a bit. Look, everyone does that once in a while."

Luka: "Yeah, I guess, but...in the royal palace?"

"The place doesn't matter."

Luka: "But...royal guard's captain?"

"I wasn't one back then."

Can he just drop it already? I'm embarrassed too; so much it's overriding my lingering anger. In reality, I was shocked to have met the lifelong nemesis face to face, so I had to take some time to regain my senses.

"Look, it didn't matter what I was doing; what's important was that while I was hiding under a tree, the door that noble left through was opened, and four people dressing inconspicuously sneaked in. Then they used magic to put another guard on patrol nearby to sleep."

Luka: "Dressing inconspicuously?"

"They covered their entire body in dark clothes, barring their eyes. To be short and direct, their get-up screamed 'burglars'."

Luka: "Is the royal palace so easy to get into?"

"Of course not. Normally all the gates are locked at night. The walls are tall and fitted with magic lamps; if anyone tries to climb over, they'll get spotted by the guards on patrol."

That's the reason Her Majesty became suspicious of Richmond. Because the door where Richmond left through became the entrance of the would-be abductors just five minutes later. But of course that could be easily excused as a blunder on the guards' part. That's why Prince Wales didn't bring up the exact situation in trial.

"I tailed them quietly. They were very skilled, evading the palace's workers with ease, until they reached Her Majesty's bedroom. I didn't know what room it was back then, but when one of them took out a wand to cast a spell disguising their voice as the Cardinal's to call Her Majesty, I decided to act."

Luka: "There's a magic that can change your voice?"

"Probably a Wind spell. I'm not a mage so I only know the basics, but I heard there's even an advance spell that can disguise your face; so the voice is probably not too different."

Luka: "Why didn't they just use magic to unlock the door?"

"...It's not really a secret or anything, so I'll just tell you. The door had magic detection spell cast on it. Not all doors have it; only the important ones. If a spell was cast on it, to unlock or destroy it, a trap would spring, attacking the caster and let out a loud noise. Most bathing establishments have them too, as countermeasure to peeping."

Luka: "Magic sure can do anything..."

"Yeah. Well, it's the main reason nobles use to claim superiority over us, and the sole, inarguable one."

It's not just about being born into noble's house. In a direct confrontation, a commoner would lose almost every time. This is an indisputable fact.

But of course that's not always the case. Back then, in the tunnel under the theatre, Richmond got to taste the exception himself. Hah! Thinking back, that felt really good.

"I didn't know if they were all mages; facing them head-on looked dangerous, so I unsheathed my sword before I entered the room. I sneaked behind them while they were focusing on Her Majesty."

Luka: "And..."

"I started by stabbing the one at the back; from their movement I thought they were probably not wearing an armour. It took me some time to pull my sword out of his body, but I didn't dare to do a slash, since my sword might caught on to—"

Luka: "Wait wait wait wait!"

"What is it?" Why did he have to be so loud; now the people are looking at us.

Luka: "You killed him? Just like that?"

"I did. Why?" At least he lowers his voice now, or we're going to get even more stares.

Luka: "Uh, I mean...in front of the princess?"

"Her Majesty had led the troop in a battle at Tarbes; she wouldn't be too shocked by it."

Luka: "That...is true, I guess..."

What's this? This...guy, he has that much combat experience, but he's not used to killing yet. If he just doesn't like killing himself it wouldn't be too strange, but to react so much to someone else's story?

Just what in the world is this man; is everything he told me true?

"Her Majesty was in sleeping attire; her personal crystal-headed wand was on the small table. Once I drew the attention of the assailants, Her Majesty picked up her wand and cast a spell. I pulled out my sword from the first one to cut off the arm of the second one about to cast a spell. Her Majesty knocked out the third one with her magic. The fourth one surrendered when my sword was on his neck."

Luka: "So it ended pretty much instantly."

"Yeah. The noise...mostly it was their screams, was heard, and magic knights came rushing in, arresting them. Her Majesty had me stay there, and listened to my account along with the captain of Hippogryph Squad; she said she would surely reward me. To be honest I didn't think much of the promise back then. I didn't expect to suddenly be summoned along with thirty other female soldiers, got put into a new royal guard squad, and then made the captain and a chevalier, all within a day."

Luka: "Because you saved the princess that night."

"Officially, that was part of the reason. Another part was our accomplishments at Tarbes; all of us that were put into the Musketeer Squad had outstanding performance in some way during the battle. For example, I held the line in place of two other soldiers in my squad who got injured until the reinforcement came."

Luka: "Ooh~"

"...It wasn't that amazing." Why is he treating this like a big deal; anyone would be embarrassed.

"I heard from Her Majesty you and Lade La Vallière were there too."

Luka: "Ah, yeah...We were on the same ship as Prince. When the fighting started we escaped on a boat with the non-combatants."

"But Her Majesty said Lady La Vallière was instrumental in the victory?"

Luka: "Eh? ...Ah..."

Luka scratches his cheek. As I thought; there were secrets being kept from public about the battle.

Luka: "You should try asking the Queen. She told us not to tell anyone, but if she told you about Louise, maybe she would tell you more."

Now that I think about it, Her Majesty's behaviour when she dropped Louise de La Vallière's name seemed like it was unintentional, and she did make me promise not to tell anyone. I thought Her Majesty simply didn't want her close friend to be a target of jealousy, but it looks like there are more to it.

"Then, what did you do?"

Luka: "Me?"

"Yeah. If Lady La Vallière's deeds are secret, then what about yours?"

Luka: "I...just protected Louise."

"Like how normal familiars do?"

Luka: "Like how normal familiars do."

Suspicious, but there's no real reason to press for an answer.

We finished the lunch just in time. This is pretty good. Maybe I'll take the squad here next time we have a day off.

Luka: "Thank you for the meal."

"Hm? You pray at the end of the meal too?" He stretches the fingers of both hands and presses them together; what a weird way to pray.

Luka: "Eh?"

"As far as I know we only thank Founder once before the meal. Is it a culture unique to your hometown? Or did the La Vallières tell you to do it?"

Luka: "Oh No, not like that. Uh, I guess it is the culture of my hometown; we say thanks for the meal before and after it, but it's unrelated to the god here."

"Unrelated?" Here?

"You, could it be...you aren't a believer of Founder Brimir?"

Luka: "I'm not."

...I can't believe there would come a day I might be able to understand the feeling of the people of Old Belief.

But I won't do that. I'm not going to make enemy of someone just because of difference in religions, or I'll be just like them.

"You...shouldn't say that to anyone else. There are some really fanatic believers out there; and some amongst them hold enough authority to make your life troublesome."

Luka: "Yeah, Louise warned me before."

"Well, do as she said."

Luka: "Okay. ...I just thought I could tell you."

"Why?"

Luka: "Just a feeling."

"Too careless."

So Lady La Vallière knows, but doesn't force him into the belief. Is House of La Vallière a more relaxed one, or is it just Louise de La Vallière? Whichever it is, that's a good sign, since we'll probably have to work together occasionally.

"This time it's fine, but only because you're lucky I'm a New Believer, and openly at that. Well, I can't fault you for that now, can I."

Luka: "New Believer? I heard that word in the court yesterday too. What is it?"

He doesn't know? There's someone who doesn't know? Oh, but he came from a place where they have other religions.

"It's not something to talk about in public, so I'll keep it short. The main pillars of faith of Halkeginia is Founder Brimir and his God. The churches, the priests, the rituals, the traditions: all that came later, made by the people in charge. You get the idea?"

Luka: "Yeah."

He nods immediately. Does he really understand it? I don't know what kind of religion he has. Well, I'll just have to ask later if I have the chance.

"The New Belief is the belief that reveres Founder Brimir and his God, but has reasons to disagree with other things. So we found a new set of traditions that we thought would be more right."

Need to warn myself not to attack the Old Belief too much. This guy, Luka is a rare neutral party; I'd only be ashamed of myself if I give in to prejudice. Once we got to know each other better, though, that's another story.

"The Old Belief has overwhelmingly more people, including the nobles, so the New Belief is ostracised."

Luka: "I see..."

Luka looks a bit sad, like he understand what it means. Maybe he does; he holds a minor faith too, after all.

"It's not that big of a deal. ...It wouldn't be, if there weren't fanatics out hunting us like rabid dogs."

Luka: "There were?"

"...There were, but it was a long time ago."

I didn't want to talk about it, didn't want that burning rage to light back up now. But I still needed to say it; to let someone who would understand know of this injustice.

Luka: "...Hey, can I ask you something?"

I need to stop thinking about that for now.

"What about?"

Luka: "Ah, well, since you said your belief is different from most people, I kind of want to check."

He's hesitating. What is he going to ask?

Luka: "If a m...a devil appears before you, what would you do?"

Ha...?!

"You..." Calm down. "You believed the words of that scum?"

Luka: "Eh? What do you mean?"

Eh?

"I mean...in the trial, Richmond..."

...That's not it?

Luka: "The trial...?"

He doesn't remember? Her Majesty said Louise de La Vallière and her family was there too; her familiar should've been with her. If it's not Richmond...then why is he asking something like this?

"Forget that. But I need to know why you're asking me this."

Luka: "Eh? ...Can you give an answer first?"

"You're being suspicious, you know. You're not Richmond's spy, are you?"

Luka: "No no, I'm not. I just...wonder if you think m...devils are enemies too."

This guy...Could he...

"Of course we do. We may take differing stances on many aspects, but we are believers of Founder Brimir as much as the Old Believers. The enemies to Founder are enemies to us."

Luka: "I see..."

Could it be true...

"...Though if you ask me personally, anything that bears no animosity to Her Majesty will get none from me, elves or whatever."

Luka: "Really?"

"Why would I lie about it?"

Let's see if he takes the bait.

"Well? It's your turn. Why are you asking me this?"

Luka: "Well..." Luka looks around, to check if anyone is listening. Then he leans in to whisper.

Luka: "Where I came from we don't worship the god or the founder you do here. And we're not enemies with devils too. We don't call them devils, but monsters, so I want to know if there are people here that don't hate monsters."

"...Is that a gag in your hometown?"

Luka: "I'm serious."

"And you're not burnt to ground yet?"

Luka: "Who would do that."

The answer...exceeds my imagination.

"...Your home must be pretty chaotic."

Luka: "...Maybe."

...

Don't say anything yet. There are too much to think about. Don't pile any more on top of it.

...

"Alright, let's go back, before Lady La Vallière tells Her Majesty I kidnapped her familiar. I haven't even got my first annuity."

Luka: "Ah, okay."

Fifteen sous: checked out and done with. Time to get back.

No need to hurry; letting the horse walk on its own is a nice change of pace in a while.

...

...There really is a place like that; and they're living in peace, unlike my home...

...Miss Vittoria...

PBW: "This chapter could have been divided into two parts; the trial and Agnes, but after some consideration, The Author decided not to. That was a lot of talking, but the Author did have fun writing the court scene. The Author can't even begin to describe how hard it was to hold in the urge to put in an 'Objection!' or two."

Ilias: "At the very least, it is not the first time I see a justice system so messed up."

PBW: "What kind of trial would you be satisfied with, then?"

Ilias: "If they are my faithful servants, they are saved. Otherwise, it depends."

PBW: "I shouldn't have asked."

Ilias: "By the way, what is your plan regarding that female knight? The last two lines gave me a bad feeling."

PBW: "You will get more of those feelings down the line. And you just have to call her a 'female knight', don't you."

Ilias: "Naturally. A female knight is a staple in the common templates of the Hero's party, after all."

*Edit 1: Modified the court part to shorten its length by about 16%. No change to the events.