Chapter 27
Beta: Worldbringer of Joseun
Cover: LousGndiner
People often meet their destinies on the road to avoid it, Rin mused. In that sense, avoiding the Academic Guild yesterday could be seen as such. However, as this was a task that Illya personally assigned to her, she wouldn't stain her name by failing to live up to the task.
…
Since when did she become so… subservient to that midget?
It seemed easy to just disregard that because of their situation, with Illya being the fairly elected leader of their guild from the very beginning, but Rin didn't imagine that that small decision ended up creating such ripples down the line.
This certainly wouldn't have happened under her leadership, had she taken that role, because if it had then they would've been a lot more reclusive. Then again, thinking about what could've happened was often a waste of time, so Rin merely brushed the thought aside.
"Is this to be where the meeting will be held?" The Round Table's leader, or strategist if you were semantic, wondered aloud to his companions. Perfect timing, she mentally added. "It is quite spacious."
"We will likely be wandering the venue alongside them," her companion added. "Fortunately, I've heard that many nobles have found themselves preoccupied, so we may be spared the activity."
"I suppose that is quite so," Shiroe half-chuckled as he turned to their third final member. From his eyes, he was reading her username. "Miss... Tohsaka, is it? I believe it would be a good idea if we shared some general knowledge before the meeting proper."
"To make it seem as if we are united, correct?" Rin raised a brow as he nodded. "Very well, Mister Strategist. I'm certain that we are all well aware of who exactly is attending this meeting, so let's just put that aside for now."
The three of them stood outside in an open courtyard. They were most certainly being watched by the guards and the occasional maid, but from how far they were, it was likely that they couldn't eavesdrop. That being said, Rin was cautious, so she decided to choose her words carefully.
It wasn't like she could set up a bounded field with Shiroe watching. After all, there were trump cards that she'd like to keep within the guild.
"It is likely that the guild will attempt to lord over how educated they are and discuss relatively abstract ideas," Rin started. "However, before that, we'll have to get over with the introductions and inevitable trade of words."
"I suppose that's true," Shiroe sighed. "I thought that having to think on an academic front alone would've been manageable, but if I have to keep an eye on what I say…"
"I imagine it wouldn't be any different to what you normally do," Ferlna commented. "You and your fellows have proven yourselves competent enough to maneuver… environments such as these. Just do as usual and be wary of what words you use. The Round Table's recent actions have caused more than a fair few some… irritation."
He frowned. "In what way?"
"Pride," she answered. "Our paper distinctly outlined methods of improvement for their entire magical system, yet they have yet to do so in the several generations worth of peace. While there have been breakthroughs now and then, it's mostly had a minor impact overall. Not to mention, with some academically-inclined noble families, their whole legitimacy as nobles stems from their academic contributions. Generations of research and experimentation might have been rendered obsolete overnight. I'm sure if your family's achievements were reduced to mere footnotes in history, after being praised for decades, you would feel at least some measure of annoyance, no?"
"I suppose so," Shiroe withheld a sigh. "Had there been a more tactful way of going about it, I would have taken it."
"And take away the chance to leave a lasting impact?" Rin raised a brow. "The publication did rub them the wrong way, but that's inevitable, especially since we want to ensure Akihabara's continued independence. That won't happen if we let them simply think of us as mere golems to use."
"While I understand that, it isn't good to damage their self-esteem to such a degree that they'd irrationally get in our way," he reasoned. "Though, thankfully, that hasn't become a reality as of yet."
Rin raised a brow.
"Yet?"
"Should we let their frustrations go unanswered, it might as well be a reality," Shiroe muttered. "I suggest that we flatter the guild members as much as possible throughout the day. Getting back in their good graces would certainly help diplomatic endeavors."
"Do you suggest helping them with their research?" Ferlna raised a brow.
"If they let us," he agreed somewhat. "Though, we will have to make it seem as if it is their idea and not ours."
"True. Prideful buffoons often allow that to cloud their judgment," Rin surmised. She sighed as she was sent a reproachful look by both her companions. "Don't worry. I won't be this blasé when the meeting proper begins. I know my way around."
"It begs the question as to where exactly did you learn to do so," Shiroe mused.
Oh, was he taking the opportunity to dig for further information about them? Sneaky, but a little too amateur to work on her. Very well, since they were allies, Rin would oblige, albeit just a little.
"I was trained for a much more volatile landscape than this one," Rin offered. "Don't worry. We're allies, so I'll help you if you look like you need it."
"Should I give some sort of signal for that?"
"Just looking like you're caught in a rut is enough of a signal for me," Rin smiled serenely.
"It appears that it isn't just your guildmaster that I have to watch out for," he sighed as he nodded in acknowledgment. However, his posture sharpened when he noticed a few figures approaching. "It appears that the wait is over."
"Then let us greet them first," Ferlna suggested as she took a few steps before curtsying to the group. "Salutations. We are delighted to take part in such an esteemed gathering of individuals."
Rin and Shiroe followed her example. Like the noblemen that they were, they bowed in greeting and offered their own. While Rin paid attention to them, there was only one name that stuck out, belonging to a noble with shoulder-length dirty blonde hair and a stylized mustache twitching upward from his smirk.
"Greetings. I am pleased to see that the Round Table delegation is fortunate enough to demonstrate such manners," he smiled, implying that they, as adventurers, wouldn't have. "I am Count Kirino, leader of the Academic Guild. It is my pleasure to meet you both."
Both? Rin withheld a smile as she glanced at her companion. So they were ignoring Ferlna? Is there some shared history there…? Ah, right. Didn't Ferlna say that she left the guild because she disliked their priorities?
If this was the man making those priorities, then Rin could see why Ferlna left.
Just standing near the guy made her want to sigh. The elected leader, wasn't that what Illya had said? Chances are, those elected votes were bought off so that they could fund their research. A mere assumption, but the only competent nobles she met so far consisted of one person, Langrissa Cowen.
Speaking of which…
"Is Lady Cowen not with us today?" Rin asked. "I had heard that she would be joining us today."
"Ah, Lady Cowen…" Count Kirino nodded. "I've heard she had other matters to attend to. As such, she will be arriving later."
Well, at least there'd be one respectable person among them.
"I see," Shiroe smiled. "Shall we proceed?"
A mace dropped from overhead.
It posed no harm. Both warriors knew that all it would amount to was a single point of damage alongside the mace recoiling back to its user, like a blade against stalwart stone.
However, Krusty dodged the blow all the same.
The purpose of this battle was not to win– to slay your opponent before he or she could slay you. Krusty had more than enough of that out on the battlefield, or in other words, the occasional dungeon or raid, though he hadn't participated in one for a while now. This served as a unique opportunity to hone their skills against each other.
He pivoted and readied his axe. He held it loosely in his grasp as he swung it upward.
A second later, the Lander's weapon flew into the air and landed on the outskirts of their makeshift arena.
Krusty faked a smile as cheers and applause soon followed.
"That was magnificently done, Sir Krusty!" His opponent, a rather rotund Lander who went by the name of Jericho, smiled from under his helmet and held out his hand for a shake. "I see that rumors of your strength haven't been for nothing!"
"Likewise. The tenacity of the Eastal's knights has been greatly understated. I am glad to see that it surpasses our expectations," he offered. Though, it was quite unfortunate that their skill didn't quite match his expectations.
The young knight's party that he had volunteered to attend went pretty much as he had expected.
It started formally, in which Krusty would offer his greetings and receive them in return. The knights' reception to his presence showed that they, in some capacity, had expected his arrival. Whether that meant they were eavesdropping on their conversation last night or simply assumed such remained to be seen, though he felt it was the latter.
Though, contradictory to its namesake, it appears that even young daughters of either dukes or barons had also attended. They appeared to be mingling with the knights, and from that, Krusty quickly realized what the purpose of this gathering was.
Enticing young knights to serve a specific land or duchy. The knights, often driven by hormones, would pledge to serve the daughters, and relocate to their lands seeking both fame and passion. Whether that came to fruition remained to be seen, but the fact that such a gathering continued to this day proved that the system has merit.
Knowing this, Krusty realized that his presence could easily garner ill will.
As someone had explained to him at the start of the meeting, the knights would often spar with each other to display their strengths and guarantee their future at a duchy. As a participant in the meeting, he would be expected to partake in these spars. However, his high level could've easily made the knights, who were trying to show off their merits, look like utter weaklings.
Which was why he had employed a system he hadn't used in a long time, the Teacher System. As a Level 91 Guardian, he could easily one-shot the Lander if he wasn't careful, so he lowered himself until he was around the Lander's level for a more fair and balanced spar.
This meant he was currently level 20 or so. It also meant he couldn't use his usual axe, but instead a lower level one that would've barely worked in an appropriately leveled dungeon. However, it didn't take away the fact that he was still an adventurer, and had experienced countless battles… or so they say. In reality, this was one of the very few matches that Krusty had against a fellow humanoid opponent, as few would recklessly attack the head of the largest guild in Akihabara. He was pretty much a fish out of water.
What followed was the knights eagerly displaying their prowess, or at least, what earned their epithets. All knights usually had some title attached to them, and with Jericho here as an example, he was labeled Jericho the Strong. A very short yet apt explanation of how he fought, with strength and strength alone.
But, as expected, his adventurer body moved on autopilot. He only interfered with it when it seemed to go for a fatal blow. As a result, the match with Jericho appeared to be an even dance of skill, which would no doubt boost the knight's merit in the eyes of the duchy.
After all, a knight who was able to match an adventurer in skill, not necessarily strength, was a knight to be sought after. Perhaps even more so, considering their current political climate.
However, Krusty was just happy to have seen a way to prevent the Round Table from gathering ill will with the knights.
"I feel as if one more match is in order," a noble commented, a figure who seemed to be hovering near his daughter protectively. "Surely you aren't tired, Sir Krusty?"
"Far from it," Krusty honestly said. "I'm capable of going further. Though, any further and I feel that I will be imposing. Surely some of the hot-blooded knights would want to spar as well? Or are they also as tired as I am?"
He wasn't tired at all, but any further than this and it'd be a bit troublesome. A part of him lamented rejecting Illya's offer to join him, as this high-society speak was driving him up a wall, but he also imagined her presence might've incited something equally troublesome.
She was a mischievous devil like that.
"Of that I am sure," the noble agreed. "Very well, one last match for the day? I heard that the maids have prepared something quite scrumptious for us."
"Oh, how fortunate!" his daughter smiled. "Lady Rayneshia, will you join us afterwards?"
All eyes found themselves pointed to a podium at which a single, regal, stone seat shouldered the dainty princess from the ball two nights ago.
The figure simply nodded with a smile.
Rayneshia Cowen. A member of the esteemed family holding their current gathering, yet as Illya had mentioned, there was little political power that she held, so buttering up to her was a waste of effort. Her existence was little more than a wallflower receiving compliments for the reputation of the family.
… It's quite a boring way to live, isn't it? Krusty had little idea what drove her to partake in this gathering, probably to fulfill her family's obligations, but he supposed it mattered little in the end. If Rayneshia was little more than someone who would bend to the whims of her family without argument…
Hmm.
"Well, as it is the last match of the day, why don't we make it interesting?" Krusty offered a smile. "Perhaps a reward for the final victor would be appropriate?"
This time, it was he who drew their attention.
"Surely seeing yet another one-on-one match would be quite boring, would it not?" he continued. "A free-for-all where the winner is allowed a favor from Lady Rayneshia herself. Would that not be entertaining?"
"I see… that does sound interesting."
"A favor from princess Rayneshia, now that is quite a reward."
"Well, princess?" Krusty smiled. "Would that not be a grand finale?"
"Very well," Rayneshia replied with a wry smile. Though, the excited crowd, whose blood was still pumping from the sequence of duels only minutes prior, did not see her discomfort and simply chose to celebrate. "Though, you will have to speak with grandfather depending on the favor."
"Merely the right to accompany one of these fetching young knights to the evening ball. Surely that is a fine favor to bestow, no?"
At that, the excitement of the entirety of the knights reached its peak.
The look of dismay that Lady Rayneshia had was priceless.
A part of him wondered why he had made it harder on himself by essentially suggesting a battle royale, but something nipped at the back of his mind. The way Lady Rayneshia reacted to everything… It very much reminded him of someone he had thought he had left behind.
Someone he desperately wanted to get back to, if only just to say goodbye.
Perhaps we'd meet again one day, Sayaka, my dear sister.
But for now, he'd have to survive the current onslaught of knights, who set their sights on toppling the top contender, namely Krusty himself.
Perhaps he'd try out a few tricks that he'd wanted to try out.
Overskills. What an odd feature.
"Is everyone here?" Taiga asked as she sat in the teacher's lounge. "The meeting should've started a while ago."
"I think that the… impromptu nature of this meeting is likely why they haven't arrived," Woodstock muttered. "Though, given the circumstances, I suppose the urgency should've been an incentive of its own."
Overskills. What a troublesome feature.
As soon as her wayward brother returned from his confusing expedition into the forest last night, he gave her and the school something to sit down and think about. However, Taiga would rather go into detail about it when the other teachers finally arrived. She didn't want to go over it twice, even if only mentally.
But, don't get her wrong! She didn't hate the idea of Overskills, rather she thought they both made sense and were an amazing thing they could do. When Shirou first told her about it, she immediately wanted to take a day off just to experiment with the idea. However, she then realized that when you built a curriculum based on how to use your regular skills and how to play your class, you'd quickly realize that this variance necessitated some… changes.
Those changes were usually paired with paperwork. The mere thought of it had pretty much killed most of her enthusiasm.
"Should we do a roll call?"
Isami, a fellow Samurai from the West Wind Brigade, asked. She was the instructor for the Samurai class while Taiga handled the sub-tank extracurricular. When they first requested instructors for the school idea, she was among the first to apply. Though, Taiga would often help her out when her class started to get rowdy, which they would be because Isami was around their age group.
"What? Are we kids now?" A monk lazily smiled. "Should we raise our hands too? Maybe even take lessons too?"
"Yuuta," a black-haired elf girl warned. "Behave yourself. This is an important meeting."
"You're not fooling anyone with that act, guildmaster~" his smile widened. "It's not like I'm wrong, am I?"
"Well, I guess so," she shrugged with a similar mischievous smile.
Kushiyatama and Yuuta.
One was a former member of DDD, who ended up creating her little guild known as Sun Path, of which the Monk instructor was a member. Their training camp was running low on potential instructors, with the skirmish with Susukino being a priority and all that, so Takayama Misa suggested that she and her guild fill in the Kannagi and Monk instructor roles.
Kushiyatama, while a bit of a spitfire, diligently taught the young Kannagi how to properly utilize their skills to the fullest. Though with her specialization in the War Miko build, they might be seeing more than a fair few of them running around trying to emulate her, but that should be fine. They did have a surplus of support class members, so if a few of them diverged into more damage builds, that should be fine.
Yuuta had also played alongside Kushiyatama in her early days, but apparently, he was fond of alt accounts. This was why he, among the volunteering staff, was at the lowest level so far, being 40. He was transferred here while he was getting back into the game after years of inactivity. However, he still had extensive knowledge of the class, and that was what mattered… even if his personality left much to be desired. How did this guy have a girlfriend when she was still sing–
Taiga sighed.
"Well, regardless. We do need everyone here before we make a decision," Woodstock reminded. "I had to end my class early. The others should have too."
A girl snickered.
"Your class of little Assassins is probably happy about it though~"
A knightly player standing next to her sighed. "Kirin. Keep it to yourself."
"Understood, Rezarick-sama," she sighed in tandem before perking up in irritation. "And it's Kirin-Chan! Remember my whole name!"
"If you get rid of that ridiculous giraffe hat, then perhaps I will," he sighed as he rubbed his eyes. "To this day, I wonder why Isaac-sama even let you into the guild."
Rezarick was one of the few staff members from the Black Sword Knights, once again because of Susukino. Though, despite being from a guild of knight cosplayers, he was fairly logical. Taiga even heard he was the quartermaster of the guild, which made it weird that he was here and not out there with his guildmaster. It was under Isaac's orders that he act as their Cleric instructor or something?
Kirin-Chan though, their resident Summoner instructor, was also here under Isaac's orders. Though, she certainly didn't look like the rest of her guild. Namely because of the giraffe head hat that she had equipped on her. Taiga still remembered her introduction like it was yesterday… which it sort of was, to be fair.
"Did you know giraffes could run at 60 kilometers per hour!?"
Odd girl, that one. Odd girl.
"Psst, Isami," their Druid instructor whispered to her guildmate. "Do you know what the meeting's about? I didn't pay attention."
"You should have!" she heatedly whispered back. "This is important!"
"But I wanted to talk to Soujirou-sama~" she whined. "You understand, right?"
"I do, Olive," she muttered with a faint blush. "But, Soujirou is expecting a lot out of us here. I can't let him down."
"Always diligent, aren't you?" the Druid sighed.
Fragrant Olive, a member of the West Wind Brigade. Frankly speaking, Taiga knew very little about the woman, as she always left the campus once classes were over to meet with her guildmaster. Initially, she was worried that she wasn't going to be teaching the young druids well enough, but her worries were unwarranted as she proved herself more than capable. The druids she taught showed amazing progress.
"It's just the instructors from the Crescent Moon Alliance and Silver Sword that are missing, correct? Nya~" Nyanta, the Swashbuckler instructor from Log Horizon, smiled. "I suppose that they'll be busy since they're teaching some of the more difficult classes."
"How hard is it to teach a bunch of Sorcerers and Bards?" Naotsugu, their Guardian instructor, mused. "Granted, I haven't played them before, but don't Sorcerers just spam spells and Bards use their AOE buffs? That's pretty much all I remember."
"A gross oversimplification," their Enchanter instructor, a Wolf-Fang wearing an intricately sewn butler's outfit despite being a girl, berated. It seemed her name was Azukiko and that she was from DDD. "That would be like saying an Enchanter only provides buffs! You should know that we do more than that, especially you!"
"Ah, I guess you got a point there," he nodded, likely thinking about his guildmaster. "By the way, how do you feel about–"
"I know of your reputation so I know what you are about to ask me. Please, out of respect, keep it to yourself."
"Looks like you're a closet one," Naotsugu once again nodded to himself. "So everyone but me is a closet. What a sad reality…"
"How in the world is one of the Debauchery Tea Party members so… vulgar?" Azukiko sighed. Taiga would've pointed out the `Debauchery` literally in the name, but she opted not to. "I dread if the other members are like you."
"Sorry that we're late!" Eisel, their Sorcerer instructor barged in with a haggard expression. "Some of the kids wanted to know what would happen if two Inferno Strikes collided. I had to make sure they didn't try it out while I wasn't looking."
"And the kids wanted me to stay until they finished playing some anime song," the bard instructor laughed. He was a Werecat who was large enough to fill the doorway and walked in from behind their resident Sorcerer. "I couldn't help it! It's always wonderful to see newbies try their best… That, and I quite enjoyed that anime. Shame there were no vocals though."
"Then let us hope that your delays haven't cost us precious time. Eisel. Enkaatanto," Woodstock sighed. "Well then, as we are all here, first thing's first. Have the papers for the smithy been approved?"
"They have," Eisel nodded as he opened a folder from underneath his cloak and handed over the notes. "The Lander smithy should be up and ready tomorrow, alongside the other trainable subclasses."
"That'll be good for the kids who want to train up their subclass the good ol' fashioned way," Taiga smiled. "After all, it's already been proven that those methods work out better than normal."
"Indeed," Woodstock nodded before he narrowed his eyes. "Now with that out of the way… Overskills, he called it?"
"What's that?" Fragrant Olive asked. Taiga should've expected that since she hadn't stuck around long enough on campus to be informed.
"It's something neat that Taiga's guild member brought up," Kushiyatama smiled. "Remember how we could cook without using the auto-cooking function? The same applies to our skills and spells. If we simply tried using them in varied ways or learned how to do them by moving our bodies, we can achieve skills that are better or outright different than usual."
"Certainly sounds like fantasy, doesn't it?" Yuuta snorted. "Wouldn't have believed it if that guy didn't dance around with End of Act like it was a movement skill. The guy was barely even using any mana. Imagine if we could teach every Swashbuckler how to do that, or something similar? Kind of broken, isn't it?"
Which was why she had called for the meeting in the first place. Taiga held back yet another sigh. She loved her younger brother, she truly did, but sometimes he made her want to smack him, repeatedly.
As soon as the news broke last night, she had seen the other instructors message their respective guild leaders about the development… probably, they could've also told other people, but Taiga couldn't be sure. After all, such a development couldn't be kept within the school alone. It had to be shared, especially to those at the frontlines who might need an edge… even if Susukino wasn't pressing further than it had before. Though, that came with its own set of worries.
"Something to look into, I'm sure," Nyanta smiled. "I'd certainly love to learn how he did it. Nya~"
"So this meeting is about trying to teach the kids how to use Overskills?" Fragrant Olive asked with a wry smile. "Um… I don't think I'm exactly… qualified. I can teach basic Druid combos and setups, but I don't even know how to use an Overskill let alone teach it."
"Which is why we're holding this meeting," Woodstock reaffirmed. "Such an impactful way to influence our future combat shouldn't be neglected, especially if we're teaching the kids our ways. The choice is between continuing classes as they were, or, suspending classes until we can rework the curriculum to include Overskills."
"Neither sound good," Azukiko fumed. "Suspending classes is a horrible idea. That's non-negotiable. If word got out that the first event hosted by the Round Table ended after only two days… we'd be a laughing stock."
"The woes of maintaining public appearance," Rezarick fumed. "Then should we go on as normal? We can't exactly teach what we did not learn."
"I could try!" Kirin-Chan smiled, much to his guildmate's chagrin.
"Nya~ That won't work either," Nyanta sighed. "If our teachings change as we learn, then it wouldn't be productive for our students. If their teachers don't know what they're talking about, then they'll never internalize it. No, we need a new option. Nya~"
"Like what? Get someone else to teach Overskills? Where would we even slot in the time?" Yuuta shrugged at the idea. "The only guy that knows it is another student. We can't exactly impose on the guy, right?"
"Or we could…" Rezarick hummed with narrowed eyes. "I'm sure that if we got permission from Isaac-sama or any of the Round Table heads…"
"I'll just ask him myself," Taiga interrupted as she opened a menu. "He can decide for himself. Though, I'll just go ahead and say that I don't appreciate the suggestions toward my little brother. He's got enough on his plate as it is."
"It is a tumultuous situation, I'm sure he'd understand," Rezarick reasoned. "The longer we wait on this decision, the less time we have to impart the knowledge to these children."
"Hey, it's a serious decision. He can take his time if he wants to," Naotsugu frowned. "Not everyone can handle teaching a bunch of kids. It's not as easy as it looks, and we don't exactly have any textbooks for him to read out."
"Honestly, you probably don't have to wait long," Taiga sighed as she got her reply. Damn it, Shirou. "He agrees. We'll have to make it an evening extracurricular class, or a mandatory weekend class, whichever works."
"I suggest that we make it an evening extracurricular," Kushiyatama said. "A lot of us are busy on the weekend so we can't exactly catch that class."
"A teacher catching another teacher's class," Yuuta snickered. "Isn't that a thing?"
"What? Aren't you interested too?" She asked him. "It's like a unique skill. Don't boys get all fired up about those kinds of things?"
"Hell yeah, we do!" Naotsugu answered in the monk's place. "All gamers share that feeling! If you don't, then you aren't a real one!"
"As boisterous as my guildmate put it," Nyanta mused. "He makes a point. While reaching higher levels is a somewhat difficult goal to achieve at the present, we can at least try to achieve a unique Overskill. It's not like we have anything better to do while we're teaching, right? Nya~"
As the rest of the instructors pondered about the possibilities of their unique Overskills, Taiga received yet another message from Shirou, saying he was alright with teaching the class each night. For some reason, Taiga had fully expected him to give that reply.
"Then is that everything?" Yuuta stretched. "Yae is kinda waiting for me, sooo…?"
"Really?" Eisel sighed. "Don't you have classes to teach rather than hang out with your girlfriend?"
"If you join me, I can get you one too~" Yuuta sang.
"Enough. It's not as if anyone would take you up on that anyway," Woodstock sighed. Taiga sheepishly closed her mouth. "Then it's settled then. We'll be adding another instructor to our roster– a temporary instructor. I trust you will be able to handle the very brief orientation, Taiga?"
"Yeah, you got it," Taiga nodded. "This whole thing was my idea anyway."
At the very least, Shirou was fine with it. Taiga supposed she'd have to be content with that.
… But she'd probably have to explain to him how to actually teach a class first.
Terrific.
Ferlna sighed.
"Your theory denies the possibility that Landers can progress!"
"Your denial of my theory is hindering that progress!"
"What does progress even mean? Isn't that where we should start?"
Even after she had left the academic guild of her own volition, the way the upper echelons of the guild acted hasn't changed in the slightest. A continuous debate until one side merely ceded to the opposition either out of acknowledgment or boredom, mostly the latter, and throughout the entirety of it, not a single new point would be made. Simply endless regurgitating of what they already knew to try and make a point.
There was no progress to be made here.
Only stagnation.
"That's merely running away from the issue!"
"What!?"
And thus the argument continued anew.
Where did it even begin?
From what Ferlna recalled, the debate began when Count Kirino, the host of the meeting itself, offered a theory to the delegation. However, knowing the Count's view of work ethic, the theory was likely crafted by one of his associates, possibly a young researcher trying to put his name out there for recognition. Ferlna could empathize, seeing as she had once done the same thing, but that was neither here nor there.
It was meant to be an ice-breaker so that the delegation could find some common ground before they went further into a discussion about adventurers and what answers could those in the Round Table give him. Of course, that was until the theory was shared.
The theory he offered detailed that Landers could not excel higher than a predetermined level, one dictated at the start of their birth. He highlighted how the level of certain noble families always seemed to peak at consistent levels and that this level fluctuated depending on the parents. This served as enough evidence for the Count to share the theory, despite the numerous reasons that Ferlna thought could derail it.
Of course, the theory itself was initially well-received among his peers, yet instantly met criticism when he provided the recommendations of said theory. To simplify the theory in a way that a child could understand, only nobility marrying each other could raise this perceived level cap, and marrying any lessers– read as commoners– would end up lowering it.
In other words, birthright over effort.
A short second or so afterward, Count Rivet, a brown-haired noble wearing an overly stylized blue chaperon, made his displeasure known. He led a family that had risen out of common blood through both academic prestige and a very recent history of accolades. Count Kirino's theory, which will be henceforth known as the Pureblood Theory, directly spat in the face of the Rivet family's efforts.
Needless to say that Rivet– and all houses who shared a similar history with his were not pleased in the slightest.
"Is that your answer!?" Rivet spat. "That only the purest noble blood can reach the mythical heights of adventurers? Madness!"
"Your clouded eyes are the only maddening thing here!" Kirino snorted. "I'm thinking of all Landers when I say that our potential is being squandered if we continue to mingle with commoners! The evidence is undeniable."
"Not sure about that…"
"And why is that–" his eyes widened as he realized who had spoken out towards him. "Magi… Tohsaka, was it?"
"I'd prefer if you, and the rest of the participants of this meeting, refer to me as simply Tohsaka," she asked as she, once again, shot a glare towards her Lander companion. Ferlna simply smiled internally. "And yes, I refute that this research is undeniable. There are many questions that this theory did not answer before it was created."
"And what questions would that be?" A particularly inquisitive Count of the Velart family asked as he fixed his glasses, a rather conservative Lander who chose to ponder topics that most found useless. However, he had valuable insight once in a while, so in her humble opinion, he wasn't as inept as his peers.
Rin shot a glance at Shiroe, who simply smiled and nodded. As he was the highest authority of the Round Table, it would have been rude had she not asked his permission.
"First off, the use of one source of evidence is questionable at best," Rin began, and Ferlna instantly knew that there was little in stopping her. "You cited familial records and the level they achieved premortem. This does not take into account their lifestyles, a heavily contributing factor to gaining levels. The only mention of their lifestyles that I could find was a brief mention of one Count rising higher than his peers as a general of the war."
"Of course," Kirino started. "His efforts were acknowledged due to the purity of his birth. General Rysome had been born from a duke and lady of neighboring estates."
"And it is because of this that his upbringing is different to others among his age range," she stated. "Due to his nobility, he was likely offered many more opportunities to safely increase his level and taught to make use of those opportunities. If we say that a common Lander, a child plucked off the streets and tutored similarly to a noble's child, there is little that denies the common child would achieve similar results to the noble."
"My companion brings up an excellent point," Shiroe nodded. "Frankly speaking, Count Kirino, this theory does not sound like something that has been deliberated thoroughly. I recall that this theory was shared with you by an associate? Did they perhaps mention that said theory was still being worked on?"
"To some degree…" Count Kirino said with a frown. "However, I am no fool. I have looked into it further, and even took into account the familial history of many associate families. The results of maintaining a pure bloodline are there with higher levels each generation when married to a noble and lower levels when otherwise. They are related."
"Correlation doesn't necessarily equal causation," she said. "Perhaps Landers have yet to realize this, but that is fine. It took our world's society decades, if not centuries before we too realized it. Though, even now, some still make that mistake."
"As yes, the puppet body theory," Count Velart mused. "Very well, enlighten us."
"I believe it to be self-explanatory, but I can delve deeper for the delegation," Shiroe chose to explain instead of Rin. Though, it was likely a good decision as Ferlna could see her companion's facade slowly breaking. "It is what scholars of our world called a questionable-cause logical fallacy. If we use a separate example, let's say that more sleep will enable you to perform better at work. This could be true, as being well-rested helps you stay focused and determined, but it does not remain so if we push it further and sleep well beyond a reasonable standard, like twelve hours."
"I see," Velart mused. "So the case of the pureblood theory would be similar, yes?"
"In a way. Though, it might be better to say that these children were nurtured to do better than other children," Shiroe said. "Better opportunities are found by the wealthy, after all. I'm sure you're aware of this, yes?"
"We certainly are," Rivet frowned. "Logical Fallacy, you say? I shall see to it that my fellow associates do not make such an error."
"Fine," Count Kirino sneered. "I shall see to it that my associate learns of this. Though, I still hold faith in the theory."
"Confirmation bias is one hell of a drug," Rin mused idly. Ferlna raised a brow at this. What was confirmation bias? "Anyway, we've wasted enough time as it is. Shall we proceed with the actual purpose of the meeting? You all have your questions for adventurers, and as luck would have it, you have two sitting alongside you. Now would be the best time, no?"
"I suppose so," Velart smiled.
Finally, this inane debate had ended. Ferlna sighed in relief. While it was clear that Count Kirino was displeased at the outcome, likely having aimed to try and revolutionize the very lifestyles of nobility to earn himself a spot in history books, both Rivet and Velart seemed extraordinarily pleased. The smirk on one of their faces was proof of that.
"Well then, Miss Tohsaka," Kirino held back a sneer. "Do you–"
Knock. Knock.
Ferlna, alongside the room, paused.
The door opened and a single maid entered through it. All it took was a glance at her clavicle to see the emblem etched onto her uniform.
"Presenting Lady Langrissa Cowen."
Ferlna stood from her seat, as did the rest of the nobility. Rin and the Enchanter followed suit a second later, likely having not expected them to do so. Though, it mattered little as the maid opened the door.
As the Cowen entered the room, the seat that they had prepared for her at the foot of the table was left completely untouched as she decided to walk past it and… take a seat near to her!?
Ah… so this was how she died. Ferlna shook that thought away as she realized that Langrissa had likely wanted to sit nearer to Rin. "If you would prefer, I can offer my seat–"
"Stay seated. I am fine with this seat."
Well, alright then.
As Ferlna returned to her seat, hesitantly she might add, she caught the askance looks of the other nobles. She shared the look. No matter what, the young scholar realized, those fools would likely never look upon her favorably. Though, the rational part of her realized that it should've been expected.
Especially after she had slighted more than a fair few of them.
"Shall we continue from where we left off?" Count Kirino, likely feeling some form of responsibility due to being the elected leader of the guild.
"I do recall that you had a question for Miss Tohsaka," Velart reaffirmed.
"In that case, I shall ask my own."
Ferlna's lips thinned.
As expected of a Cowen.
The Ice of Eastal's words was as frigid and uncaring as the last time she had heard her. The nobles of the academic guild could not argue otherwise as Lady Langrissa pointedly faced Lady Tohsaka.
"I spoke with you before about the applications of your study. I have performed my own fair share of experiments since we last met–" she did what!? "–and determined that you were correct that it applied to every facet of magic. Even a meager spell such as this…"
She raised her hand.
"Lumine Light."
An orb of light with an incredibly adorable face floated into the air.
"… is affected," she continued. "This is the standard way to cast the spell. However, if you simply dictated the mana to solidify further and add a new subroutine…"
She cast the spell once more. However, instead of becoming an adorable ball of fluffy light, it became a fluffy ball of light with horns and small fangs. But, in comparison to the initial casting of the spell, it wasn't as bright.
It was actually worse than before. It didn't give off any light at all.
"The form changed to accommodate my divergences alongside an apparent weakening of output," she explained. The new creation floated towards the initial light. "However, this was my intention. Instead of increasing its luminal output, I've elected to do the opposite."
The Lumine Light seemingly howled in confusion as it was enveloped in the other spell. Soon after, light exploded from inside of it.
"Quite simply, what mana was meant to be used for its initial lumen output, it is now used to actively seek out light sources and envelope them. After doing so, it will use the existing light source and boost the output to almost three-hundred percent," she dismissed both spells. "Naturally, you could forgo the initial cast of Lumine Light, and instead, cast this variant and target a torch or a mere oil lamp. Furthermore, unlike Lumine Light which continually expends mana to create light, this spell, which I will dub Lumine Aid hereon forth, does not have such expenditure. This means that the spell will last much longer, or last as long as its light source."
"That's certainly impressive," Shiroe complemented. "How long did this take you, might I ask?"
"I've been working on this spell since the paper was released to us. Though actual trial and error occurred days prior," she paused and gave him a sidelong glance. "I do not believe we have been introduced. You are?"
"Ah, I suppose you weren't at the last evening ball," Shiroe scratched his neck as he was caught off-guard. "I go by Shiroe. I am an affiliate of the Round Table."
"The brightest mind, I might add," Rin did well to hide her smirk from the Enchanter. "The coalition was his brainchild, after all."
"Was it now?" she raised a brow. "Very well then. I assume you've had this research for far longer than I have. Sir adventurer, have you attempted to make use of this knowledge for yourself?"
His smile became wary. "… to some extent. I have yet to find time to run any sort of trial."
"I'm certain Sir Shiroe simply wants to unveil whatever creation he has concocted at a more opportune moment," Rin surmised. "It wouldn't be wise to reveal such a thing before he's thoroughly tested it. Don't you agree, Lady Cowen?"
"I would presume that to be the standard," she frowned. "Is it not?"
Admittedly, Ferlna found that the plastered smile on the count's face brought one onto her own.
"Yes, it is," Count Rivet smiled. "Though, there are always the inevitable few who make such… oversights."
"Then let us hope that such can be dealt with," Langrissa Cowen sighed. "Buffoons careless enough to make such oversights should be berated, lest they make such oversights once more."
"I wholeheartedly agree," Count Kirino nodded swiftly. "I will see to it that those who do as such will receive a thorough reminder."
"See to it that you do."
The nods she received in response were short yet swift.
As expected of a Cowen.
"I suppose, with that out of the way, I do have another concern," Count Rivet declared. "Such wanton creation of formulated spells may very well end up common in the coming days. These spells are radically outside the norm."
"And what formulates your consideration of a norm, Count Rivet?" Shiroe asked politely.
"For the sake of the adventurers in the room, allow me to expound," Ferlna chose to speak up. Knowing that she was the most experienced with the adventurers, Count Rivet nodded in allowance. However, this was not done in goodwill, because he shot a smug look towards Count Kirino, likely because he was still holding a slight grudge. "For as long as we Landers have existed, we have had access to knowledge about every skill and spell that was possible. The way you have described our society as stagnant, while not incorrect, vastly underestimates exactly how stagnant it is in comparison to you adventurers, who have been enjoying rapid economical and technological development."
At Rin's curious look, Ferlna continued. "As I've recently learned, the number forty-two is merely a number to you. However, to our society, it also has another meaning. Music."
"And why is that?" Rin blinked in confusion. "Why would a number, that number alone, be in any way related to music?"
"Because it is the total number of songs that exist," Shiroe frowned in realization. "There are only forty-two songs in Elder Tale– in Theldesia as a whole."
"What!?" Rin exclaimed, but surely after, gathered her bearings. " That's… Forgive me, I had not realized this."
"It is fine, we are well aware that some adventurers are not as privy to our culture as we would have liked," Count Kirino mused. "Though, I find it odd that you find this surprising. Do you have more than forty-two songs in your… world?"
"As a rough estimate, there are nearly a hundred…" Shiroe mused. At the look of surprise the Landers gave him, he winced. "… a hundred-million."
Ferlna blinked.
"Pardon?" she found herself involuntarily asking.
That couldn't be right.
"Preposterous!" Count Kirino, in addition to many of the other counts, exclaimed bewildered. Count Valert collapsed back into his seat. Even Princess Cowen seemed to involuntarily rock in her seat. "How could you even learn that many songs, or even teach it to your young!?"
"I presume that all Theldesians, or at least those on Yamato, learn the forty-two as some sort of coming of age ceremony?" Rin raised a brow. At the nods she received, a few still wild-eyed at the mere idea of so many songs, she sighed. "Such a ceremony does not truly exist in our old world. People are free to listen to whatever music they like, from whatever genre, whichever singer, at any time. The average person will never listen to every song in existence, and I doubt even immortals like us would be able to if we took millennia to simply attempt such. This doesn't even include the new songs that could be sung in that period."
New–!? How could there be anything new!?
"Newer songs?" Count Velart raised a brow. "Your kind would make more when you are already overwhelmed by such a sample size?"
"Nothing is ever truly new," Shiroe tacked on. "If you have as much development in technology as our world, then the entertainment industry will surely follow. Much of those millions of songs are either mashups, rehashes, remixes, or new renditions of older songs. They may even share a similar tune or beat, but those songs are unique in their special way. While we cannot listen to every song as Theldesians can, we can at least listen to songs that we can enjoy by picking and choosing them."
… What was this feeling?
This difference in outlook, Ferlna had barely considered before. As the rest of the Landers contemplated this idea. The adventurers before them were a part of a culture that actively sought to create, have more, be more, find more.
More, more, and more.
From the grains of sand to the stars in the sky, Ferlna began to realize why Tohsaka seemed so against taking a step back. Indeed, they relaxed now and then, but she could tell that they found fulfillment by going further than before, whether it was by furthering their skills or knowledge didn't matter. This extended to other adventurers, all seeking similar goals, going further and further…
"Then I suppose our society's stagnation looks like outright petrification to most adventurers," Count Kirino snorted. "This difference, mark my words, will cause many misunderstandings. The average Lander is content with what they have and rarely seeks more than what they need. Those who are less so are considered greedy, avaricious, and above all, radical. The line is fine, but I'm sure we know well which side of it each of us stand?"
Ah, Ferlna paused. She could finally place a name on her current emotions.
Envy, but at the root of it, was admiration.
An admiration for adventurers.
Ferlna knew. Perhaps from the day that she was born, she realized why she felt so dissatisfied with her peers, and it was only when she encountered her that she found satisfaction, a Sorcerer with more spine and will than some have in their entire lifetime.
I am glad, Ferlna noted. I am glad to have met them. Truly.
"Very much like this room, divided," Langrissa Cowen sighed as the discussion died down. "Gentlemen, I see that my stance can now be likened to that of a radical, now would it?"
And it looked like she was not the only one.
"Not at all, your majesty!" Count Kirino backtracked immediately when it became apparent he was about to slight his benefactors. "What achievements you've formed are your own, and should be a joyous occasion–!"
"But I am of a similar mind," Langrissa frowned. It was a foreboding look for her. "Too long have we stayed stagnant, petrified in your own words. However, rectifying this would take… reform. I imagine much of it."
"Then should we hold this specific discussion at a later date?" Shiroe offered. "We are here to share knowledge of each other in a way that can help peacefully coincide our differing cultures. Such talks of reform may require and affect more than just the mere few in this room."
And despite Ferlna's personal feelings about it, the strategist had a point. A couple of Counts, a Cowen, and a pair of adventurers discussing societal upheaval? They weren't influential enough to cause such a thing, even if they were all of a mind to do so.
"I suppose," Lady Cowen simply said. However, it was clear to see that ideas were already running through that frigid woman's head.
At the very least… the Round Table seems to have succeeded in obtaining an ally for their political endeavors? With the speed at which they ensnared Lady Cowen, Ferlna mentally applauded them.
"Well then, where were we?" Rivet spoke up again after clearing his throat. "I believe we were discussing the naming of skills that perform outside the norm before we went on that… tangent?"
"I believe we already have a term for that. Overskills," Rin smiled. "A rather recent term, I will admit, but it should envelope that meaning quite easily."
"How quaint," Langrissa mused.
Quaint indeed, Ferlna mused. The rest of the meeting proved to follow suit. How very quaint.
How in the world did she end up here?
Oh right, she said nothing and let that demon drag her into something she had no intention of joining. Maybe mother was right, and all adventurers were nothing but brutes?
Rayneshia sighed as she recalled what happened thus far.
That demon, Krusty, had won the free-for-all that he one-sidedly declared. In doing so, he had won her hand at the evening party. Initially, she had no intention to join it, mostly so she could spend the night sleeping early. She was only required to make one appearance publicly every day.
The Young Knight's gathering was supposed to be all she had to join today… but as a Cowen, she couldn't besmirch her family's name by outright denying that man his favor, even if he was nothing but a demon in glasses. The responsibility that she had just because she was born a Cowen...
She sighed.
"I suppose you are tired today?"
Rayneshia withheld a frown as the adventurer asked her a question. Of course, directly after the gathering had ended, he had tagged along until they reached a gazebo. It was surrounded by a wonderful orchard of white roses, but it was made less so by the presence of that man.
"Perhaps a little," she offered.
"Understandable. I, myself, am tired from facing so many knights in one sitting."
"Was that sarcasm?" She closed her eyes with a frown. It was obvious to her that the adventurer didn't feel the slightest bit fatigued whatsoever. Although, she noted that it was taking a strangely long time for him to respond, and so, reopened her eyes.
"Wake me up in a while," he said as he laid down on the gazebo.
"Do you… not care for your appearance, Sir adventurer?" Rayneshia muttered as she hastily looked around.
"I do not," he smiled. "I'm only a barbaric adventurer, after all. This much is expected out of me."
So the expectations placed on him for being an adventurer meant little? Or rather, because there was so little of it to begin with that he could freely act so… boorish?
Somehow, it felt…
"You thought it unfair just now, didn't you?" Krusty snickered. "Then why not join me? The table is nice and cold."
That… demon. He must have had some sort of way with his words, else, why would she be entertaining the idea at all?
The table was indeed cold, yet hard. It was strangely both uncomfortable and comfortable. This was quite a paradoxical conundrum. She allowed her forearm to become her headrest. Her head felt heavy on her arm, and soon after, she realized her eyelids felt the same.
Ah… was she going to sleep here?
What would mother say?
"I would hope that you do not influence my daughter with your adventurer rhetoric, Sir Krusty."
Mother!?
Rayneshia shot up from her comfort and straightened her back instantly. She could feel the table call for her, to return to its ensnaring grasp, yet with the raised brow of her mother looking down at her, Rayneshia easily beat the urge back.
"A good day to you, Lady Saraliya," the adventurer greeted, still laying upon the gazebo without a care in the world. "I hope you don't mind. The bench is as comforting as the table is. Would you like to experience it for yourself?"
"Your nonchalance is refreshing, if albeit boorish," her mother confidently stated with a smile as she took a seat. "Forgive me if I do not indulge. A lady has certain appearances that she must maintain."
"Understandable," he smiled. "Perhaps one day, when such obligations do not weigh you down."
"Perhaps," she smiled. "Though I must say when I heard that an adventurer had been sighted with my daughter, I did not think it would be you."
"Were you hoping for Illya?" Krusty mused. "Unfortunately, the Emiya Family's guild leader is a bit of a recluse. Though, it should be understandable. She must attend to matters back home."
"Would it offend you if I asked what sort of matters?"
"Not really," he shrugged. "Illya handles our Lander affairs, as we have told you before. Much of the newly formed laws and contracts in Akihabara have to be run by her so that she can identify whether or not they could be problematic in the future, followed by a double-check by our resident strategist. A rather troublesome job, wouldn't you say? I certainly wouldn't have enjoyed it."
"Is that so?" her mother smiled once more. "Then might I ask if the rumors are true and that you are accompanying my daughter to the evening ball?"
"They are," Krusty simply said. "You could ask your daughter for the specifics."
"I could," Mother noted. "However, when the source is right before my eyes, I find it prudent to ask said source instead."
"Prudent," the adventurer smiled. "Very well. What else would you like to know?"
"A variety of things. Though, much of my curiosity could be sated as we speak," Saraliya said. "Would it trouble you if I asked your intentions for my daughter?"
"Ah, such a caring mother," he smiled. "You need not worry. If I might be so boorish, I simply needed a shield. There are a lot of curious young maidens among the nobility that seek out the thrill of meeting an adventurer. I merely wish to avoid the hassle of speaking with them."
A shield… that's all that he wanted her for?
For some reason, Rayneshia felt the urge to inflict bodily harm, but a lady of nobility should not be having those thoughts, so she kept such thoughts aside for now. She could lament in her bedroom later, where no one was watching her.
"Pragmatic," her mother noted with a hint. "But surely that isn't everything?"
"Unfortunately, it is," the adventurer answered. "Adventurers, you see, do not like to be shackled to things they find uninteresting. We value our freedom to eat what we like, sleep when we like, and move where we like. Such freedom is fulfilling, is it not?"
"Does that not sound… irresponsible to you?" Mother asked.
"Perhaps," he smiled. "But it takes resolve to be free. To have that sense of resolve, a sense of self-responsibility must exist in equal measure, no?"
"I suppose, but I doubt it is that simple," she lightly sighed. "Nevertheless, I see that you do not bequeath my daughter any ill intentions. Though, I will admit to having just a bit of curiosity left to be sated. Will you indulge?"
"I see no issue with it," he simply nodded. "What is it?"
"I've heard from some merchants that adventurers have been traveling north lately. I trust that this is nothing to worry about?"
"I can guarantee that Eastal has nothing to worry about from our adventurers," Krusty frowned slightly afterward. "However, I would advise you to not blatantly paint such a black and white picture. I said that adventurers like their freedom. What they do with such freedom is up to the adventurer alone. We are not too dissimilar in that aspect."
For the first time since Rayneshia has known her, from birth that is, it was the first time she saw a deep frown on her mother's face.
"I see," she said. "Rayneshia dear, do be careful now. I heard a chill has rolled in nowadays."
As Rayneshia offered her mother a nod, she walked away. It was then that she noticed the few bodyguards surrounding the gazebo from afar. Her mother met up with them and elegantly waved farewell. As quick as she appeared, she was gone.
"Hmm…" Krusty sighed. "That wasn't as relaxing as I hoped it to be."
The fact Mother had approached her like this...
Rayneshia was definitely missing something, wasn't she?
They sat at a long table.
Waver noted the particularly expensive decor surrounding them and the food plated before them. A marble statue overlooked them from behind Lord Barte and his family. Though, the fact that they were on opposing edges of the table painted a rather divided picture.
Then again, the choice of table shape could've been to appear more important to their guests. The fact he was far away meant that they had to pay attention to his words, lest they miss them entirely.
Or perhaps Waver was reading far too much into it.
"How do you like it?" Lord Barte asked as Waver's companion, Michitaka of the Marine Organization, took the time to savor the steak before him. "This meat is known as the best in my domain."
Lord Barte, appearance-wise, resembled what a cartoon character would wear if they were portrayed as a judge, albeit more rotund and bearded than that interpretation. To his left was his wife, who looked to be a trophy wife with how she remained elegantly silent as she ate. The person to his right was likely his son, or heir-to-be, but he seemed more preoccupied with the feast before him.
Michitaka, after a few seconds of chewing, visibly brightened.
"This is certainly delicious," he complimented. "I've invited some of my chefs to the city too. Next time, I'd love to invite you."
Waver inwardly grimaced but remained silent.
Before the banquet with Lord Barte's family, Waver had pulled Michitaka away so that they could discuss what they would be doing throughout the banquet. In particular, what Michitaka was aiming to do during the aforementioned banquet.
He answered with, and Waver quoted, `go with the flow and try to be polite.`
The Clocktower Lord felt the extreme urge to sigh in exasperation. Though, after realizing that he didn't need to keep up appearances, did so dramatically and prepared the longest lecture he would have since coming to this world, mostly covering etiquette around nobility. Needless to say, the bear-like guild leader had experienced what it was like to be in a classroom after years of being a working adult.
He came out of it far more wary of the Enchanter, but Waver simply didn't care. Though, he did remark that he was used to being berated, as the life of a Japanese salaryman was not easy, even if he was a section chief.
Perhaps it was this life experience that led him to create such a large production guild. In that regard, he was one of the most competent members of the Round Table.
Though, despite this, it would seem that Michitaka had decided that he was going to try to establish a working relationship with the Lord. Very well, Waver would help him with that when he could, as it would benefit them all in the long run.
They couldn't keep relying on local farmers to fuel their food economy forever. Their guild leader had complained about the recent lack of stock.
"I would certainly look forward to that," Lord Barte heartily smiled. "I've heard many rumors about the prowess of adventurer chefs. This revolution has greatly influenced our eating habits. Everyone's in love with the new food!"
Increasingly flattering...
"I can certainly see that," Michitaka smiled as he gestured to the food before him. "I'm sure your chefs have been greatly inspired as of late."
"The people in my domain have become greatly motivated to create delicious desserts. As you have guessed, my chefs have found great inspiration to try and mimic their dishes," he nodded. "Production has increased in several areas. We've taken great care to raise, nurture, harvest, and even transport these ingredients. It has been troubling for my accountants, but I believe it was a worthwhile endeavor."
"I'm glad to hear it," he thanked as he knew that the Lord was basically thanking adventurers for his recent endeavors. Though, Waver had his suspicions as to why. There's surely a catch to come with this behavior.
"But… there seems to be one problem."
And there it is.
"Raising a lot of goods and transporting as far as possible would make many prospective consumers happy and enriches a domain," he started. "However, transporting said goods has its own problems. Particularly, the longer the transport takes between domains, the higher the probability of vile monsters making themselves known and attacking the convoy."
"Which would be disastrous as the loss in both resources and profit may eventually become too large to bear," Michitaka understood perfectly.
"Yes, and with that in mind, I would love to make a request…"
"I believe that any request made to the Round Table should be given to its entirety," Waver spoke up, likely for the first time since their arrival.
The noble's smile tightened.
"Then it is fortunate that this is not a request to the Round Table delegation, but Michitaka-dono alone."
"But I'm sure you can understand that I am a part of the Round Table," Michitaka replied, noting Waver's look. "Actions performed by a Round Table affiliated party are associated back to the Round Table itself. As much as I would like to fulfill a personal request, I cannot do so if it uses resources that would be allocated to the Round Table."
Lord Barte frowned. He wasn't as subtle as he likely believed when he shot Waver a glare, as brief as it was.
"How unfortunate," he said. "Then perhaps we can arrange a meeting with the Round Table later tonight?"
"Perhaps after the evening ball," Michitaka agreed. "Though, I am curious. What request would require the use of Round Table resources, Lord Barte?"
"I would assume it to be simple, would it not?" Waver replied to his companion. "There are only two ways to avoid encountering monsters during transport. One method is through the skies with a flying mount. The other…"
"Is over the sea," Michitaka surmised. "I assume you are speaking of…?"
"Yes, the Ocypete. Such a marvelous creation!" Lord Barte smiled. "A true testament to your skills as an artisan."
And the fact that the Landers know about the Ocypete means that their spies must still be lurking heavily within the city, Waver mused. Though, there isn't much that can be done about them when they also had Susukino spies wandering about, who they were still feeding false information.
But again, about Susukino...
"Unfortunately, until an alliance or trade agreements are established, we cannot simply lend the Ocypete out on a whim at this time," Michitaka declared. "I'm sure you understand that, with our current situation, the Round Table would prefer to keep knowledge of the Ocypete under wraps."
"It is understandable. I do not wish to impose," Lord Barte pleasantly smiled. "Now, let us not let the banquet go to waste. Such exceptional dishes should be praised by the sound of a delicious dinner."
"Of that, we agree," Michitaka smiled.
Waver frowned as he recalled the news sent from their front lines, of how there were fewer and fewer adventurers from Susukino appearing before them.
Something was happening up north… and Waver had a good idea as to what it was.
It was a tall room with little decor, though it had not always been this way.
When he first set foot into the room, he recalled portraits of nobles from ages past, seats that had luster, and windows equally as tall as the room decorated in mosaic patterns. That had long since faded. Portraits torn and cast aside, shattered windows allowed a frigid chill within its once hallowed halls, and a once lustrous throne stripped of its jewels laid unseen under a drape. It bore an ever-familiar emblem, a symbol of a new rule.
Demiqas found it to be an acceptable throne.
It wasn't as comfortable as he would've liked, as it was built for a man much smaller than he was, but it only served to amplify his imposing figure.
… If only he wasn't feeling as aggravated as he was.
"Londark."
"Yes, Demiqas?"
"Are those idiots still defying me?"
"Indeed," his strategist – the arrogant elf that failed to fulfill his role when he had needed him – nodded. "I suggest that we–"
"No need," his guildmaster snorted. "Why did I even bother asking? It'll all be over soon."
"Are you certain?" His eyes narrowed. "You've been certain before, back when that Enchanter–"
"Londark. Watch it."
The Sorcerer paused.
"Then please forgive my… hesitations," Londark looked away. "It is a bold move that you have pulled, especially with our upcoming guests. Much of the guild is not sure that it is the right move to take, especially those that are still fighting with the Round Table's forces."
"You mean the members that'd rather listen to you than me?" the Monk scoffed. "Whatever. If they can't believe in their guildmaster, then they'll learn soon enough."
A bottle was taken out of his inventory, and shortly after, guzzled for all of its contents. From the smell alone, the strategist could tell it was alcohol. Though, knowing that they couldn't become inebriated, he was allowed to proceed unhindered.
"Such blasé conduct… I can barely see why you would send us there when they're at our–" Londark furrowed his brow in contemplation. "... Oh, so that's what you've done."
"Exactly," Demiqas belched as he tossed the bottle away. Soon, a smirk took hold. "There's no need to send us out when I've already sent them out. All that's left is to wait."
"... and you are this confident in their success?"
Demiqas chuckled to himself.
"Absolutely."
Ah… he could recall his orders as clear as the Theldesian night sky.
Leave no survivors! Crush them!
Next Chapter: Late May (Hopefully)
A/N: So uh… I just realized that this chapter was technically complete by around Late November (if my google comments serve as any indication) but I hadn't actually posted this. I honestly think I forgot because I was focused on my OJT responsibilities. So… yeah.
A blunder, I suppose?
I will try to return to monthly uploads for both stories but don't get your hopes up. Also, to those waiting for My Ideal Academia, the chapter is written but I still need to give it some time, maybe add an extra scene or two if my beta insists. However, it will be ready by the end of the current month, so in a few days. Give or take a week.
Though, I should probably let you all know that I'm going to be going on a trip halfway across the globe within the next few months, so that'll probably delay my progress even further for some future chapters. That, and job hunting.
That's all for now, I suppose.
Until next time,
Kappa
