Hell, everybody! I am VERY sorry that is took me almost an entire month to get this volume out (I honestly was considering semi-retiring if I hadn't finished in time), but here it is: the second volume of Lord Marksman and Vanadis (Seitenkan). OR: Lady Markswoman and Vanadar.

Enjoy


Volume 2

Chapter 1
Dreams of a Distant Day

Titto awoke in the night, just before dawn broke.

He washed his face with water he had prepared the previous night and tied his long, chestnut-brown hair along the back side of his head into a pony-tail hairstyle. He opened the shutters throughout the house and began cleaning the kitchen and dining room with practiced hands.

After donning his butler's uniform, he quickly prepared breakfast.

"It's about time for her to wake up."

With the morning sun now shining through the window into the kitchen, Titto stood before the mirror while putting on his vest and thought about the Lord he served. Naturally, he began to smile.

"- Good morning, Tigari-sama."

Okay, all good.

Titto walked up the stairs. He headed from the main area to a room deep inside on the second floor. Titto held a strange sense of duty to wake up this woman who would sleep through the entire day if she did not have any business to take care of.

"If I don't do this, who will wake Tigari-sama?"

Tigarivurmud Vorn was the name of the Lady Titto served.

It was an exaggerated name the person in question did not seem to dislike, but for those more intimate with her, it was easier to simply call him Tigari.

Ever since they met when they were small, Titto did not stand much on ceremony and continued to call her Tigari-sama.

"She was up late last night, so she will probably sleep until mid-day... But I should still wake her up."

While muttering to himself, he stood before Tigari's room. After taking a few small, deep breaths, Titto knocked on the door. Confirming that there was no reaction, he quietly opened the door.

A dazzling sword was pointed at Tigari as she slept on the bed.

"Tigari-sama...!"

His face turned pale as he said those words. Titto quickly ran over and looked at the person hunched over Tigari, as if embracing her while holding the longsword.

He wore blue clothes and had impressive silver hair which reached his shoulders; he was a handsome girl. He looked down at Titto in surprise.

"Y, you... Wha, wha, what are you doing...!"

Titto's voice trembled with surprise and anger. The boy with silver hair sheathed his longsword in a panic.

"No, sorry. I wasn't intending to threaten him."

"Then what were you doing! In the first place, how did you even get in here?"

"From there."

The boy with argent hair readily pointed to the window, which was currently wide open. He folded her arms and began to give an explanation.

"She wouldn't wake up no matter how much I called her, but then I remembered she awoke when a sword was put in her mouth. I wondered if she reacted whenever a blade was brought close... Well, I was having a bit of fun as well."

He had become inarticulate toward the end seeing Titto glare at him, whose hazel eyes were now blotted with tears. The boy with silver hair became embarrassed.

"I wasn't going to hurt him, it was just some innocent fun."

"Even if you didn't intend to, you could have hurt him!"

It was a just argument. The boy sunk into silence.

At that time, Tigari began to move beneath Titto.

"... Titto?"

Hearing a drowsy voice tickle his ear, Titto hastily parted from her.

With her red hair disheveled, Tigari sat up. After glancing at the two boys gazing at him, she looked to the open window.

As she looked at the light blue sky, a fresh breeze quietly stroked the three peoples' hair.

"What's with all the ruckus? It's still morning."

"It is already morning."

Titto firmly responded while blushing. Tigre, without noticing his appearance, looked about reluctantly as if she had no more choice. The boy with silver hair looked at her in embarrassment.

"What's wrong, Elias?"

"No, it's..."

Titto explained the situation on Elias' behalf. Once he finished, Tigari nodded and smiled at Elias with a carefree look.

"It seems you saw something troublesome."

"Honestly."

"Tigari-sama!"

Titto shouted, making Tigari and Elias cower on reflex. It was a childish gesture as he scolded the two like a father.

Tigari, Titto, and Elias sat around a table in the dining room.

At the table was rye bread, milk, soup with smoked fish, thinly sliced meat, and boiled egg.

Elias sat at the table as if it were natural. Titto wished to say "I have not prepared enough for you," but prudently remained silent.

Though he did not take well to the circumstances, he was Tigari's guest. As a maid, he could not be a disgrace.

- I'll give him some rice while we eat.

Until today, Tigari and Titto had eaten with just the two of them. He wanted to return to the days before Tigari left for Dinant.

"So you eat your meal with your butler."

While holding bread in his hand, Elias asked as if it were unexpected.

"Titto and I are the only ones living here. It would be troublesome if we ate separately, and it's better for talking, especially since Titto takes care of the household for me."

"You're a busy one."

"I'm used to it."

Elias glanced at him admirably. Titto simply bowed and responded butlerly.

"By the way, what happened so early in the morning?"

Tigari asked after sipping her soup. Elias took a drink of wine and responded.

"I'll be leaving here. I wanted to hear your future plans."

"Future, huh?"

Tigari fixated her gaze on the table as her hands stopped moving.

Tigari was an aristocrat of Brune. She had lost her father two years ago and succeeded her title and the land of Alsace.

On the battlefield of Dinant Plains, she became a prisoner of war to one of Zhcted's Vanadar, Eliasora Viltaria – Elias. When told Duke Thenardier, a powerful noble of Brune, would burn Alsace to the ground, she borrowed his strength and returned.

Three days ago, Tigari defeated Duke Thenardier's forces. That night, her people and the soldiers were intoxicated in the feast of victory.

The day after that – two days ago – things had changed radically.

The dead were buried, funerals were held, and there were people walking around the town, rebuilding what had been burned down.

It was not just the people of Alsace but the soldiers under Elias' command. Though they managed to salvage much of the buildings, it took until late last night to complete.

Today, she would have to think about what to do in the future.

- Duke Thenardier will come since I killed Zoe.

The general of the Thenardier Army which attacked Alsace was Zoe Thenardier. She was the daughter of the Duke and future heir to his name.

Duke Thenardier was from an old, distinguished family which boasted enough power that it could not be ignored. She could easily move ten thousand troops, and, with the aid of his many aristocratic relatives, could gather a force which easily exceeded thirty thousand.

On the other hand, Alsace could gather at most one hundred men.

Though he could increase that number to three hundred, he would lose all the young men who were the main workers. The towns and villages would essentially stop functioning.

- At best, ten thousand, at worst, thirty thousand...

It was an overwhelming difference. Tigari's face stiffened in tension and fear.

How did I get myself into this trouble? What should I do?

The anxiety which lurked inside her was that she had missed Duke Thenardier's true intent.

"Don't hesitate."

A happy voice touched Tigari's ear. When she looked up, she could see Elias smiling.

He stood up as if he were going to say something to Tigari before turning away.

"Decide what you want to do by the time we next meet. I'll leave most of the soldiers here. You'll be working as Lang's aide."

"Aide?"

"This land belongs to me now. From your standpoint, you'll be assisting Lang."

Elias put on his mantle and gallantly walked forward. He threw a question to Tigari who was staring at him.

"Are you going to think about what to do from now on?"

"I'll rack my brains with Lang so we won't lose this land."

While listening to Elias' footsteps as he walked away, Tigari sighed deeply and leaned against the backrest.

After finishing breakfast, Tigari went to the second floor. Rather than going to her room, she went to a small room at the end of the hallway.

It was a narrow enough room such that Tigari, who was average build and height, could not lie down. Leaning on a splendidly decorated stand was a single black bow.

The bow and bowstring were black, as if they were a condensation of the darkness. Rather than being dyed, the material itself was black. Tigari could not understand its character.

It was a family heirloom used by ancestors of the Vorn family who were hunters. She used it in the Molsheim Plains to shoot down Zoe and his (Vyfal) Wyvern. Tigari corrected her posture, steadied her breathing, and grasped her fist before her chest.

Tigari had greeted this bow, which had been passed down from generation to generation, immediately after she woke up every day since she was little. After pushing back the Thenardier Army, she greeted it after breakfast.

She needed physical strength, energy, and courage to stand before the bow.

- This isn't a normal bow.

She heard a voice echo in her head when Zoe took flight on the Wyvern.

At that time, she shot down the Wyvern.

The arrow was normal. It should be impossible to hurt it, let alone penetrate its scales which could fend off sword and spear. She knew that best.

When she encountered an (Suro) Earth Dragon in the recesses of the mountain two years ago, every arrow Tigari shot left it unwounded. It was not a question of her capability.

However, after hearing the voice on the battlefield, her arrow flew and literally crushed the (Vyfal) Wyvern.

The existence of this uncanny bow weighed heavily in Tigari's mind alongside her issue with Thenardier. Since it was an inherited family treasure, she could not treat it poorly, but she could not help but look at it as if it were a monster when she recalled the spectacle.

"What on earth are you?"

Tigari muttered before the voice.

Still, the bow did not answer.


Upon exiting Tigari's mansion, Elias headed to the temple.

Though the one thousand troops Elias had led to Alsace were spending their time in the plaza and vacant houses throughout the town, those who took command, including Elias' adjutant, Langlisha, stayed at the temple.

Brune and Zhcted believed in the same Pantheon of Gods, so the soldiers were not particularly resistant to the idea. They could look up at the statues which enshrined the Gods they looked up to and remember their hometowns.

In the past two days, the soldiers had spent their time cleaning the town of all the stones and repaired houses which had started collapsing. It was worthwhile spending their time building something rather than destroying it.

The temple soon came into his view. As he opened the door, Langlisha – Lang – came into view. Elias called out to him,

Lang noticed Elias and returned a salute with a grave expression.

He was a tall, handsome man with golden hair tied on the back side of his head. His face did not hold a single fragment of affability. He wore clothing the same blue as Elias' and had a sword held at his waist.

he could be called Elias' right arm. He served as an assistant in both military and political affairs.

"Do you have business you need to take care of right now?"

"No. I was going to visit you to ask the same, Eliasora-sama."

"No need to do that especially. Did you finish selecting the soldiers?"

It was a confirmation rather than a question. Lang nodded without batting an eyebrow.

"Rudette was made commander and she has chosen one hundred cavalrymen."

"I leave the rest to you. I need to return to keep the King silent. She's in your care until then."

Elias began to laugh in a casual manner while Lang simply looked unhappy.

"Eliasora-sama, you seem to trust her quite a bit."

"I thought you did as well."

"Though I evaluate her to be reliable, I do not trust her."

Seeing his subordinate's stubborn attitude, Elias shrugged his shoulders with a bitter smile.

"I got it, I got it. Anyway, I 'm leaving Tigari to help you."

The Vanadar with silver-white hair waved his hand as he turned away while Lang saw him off with a bow. When Elias disappeared from his sight, he leaned against a nearby fence and looked up to the sky.

The brightness of the blue morning sky still remained.

"I wanted to avoid getting more deeply involved... But there's no other way."

Elias moved his army due to good will toward Tigari.

Alsace was a barrier to prevent the spark of civil war from reaching Leitmeritz. They needed to confirm Duke Thenardier's intent and would intervene according to the turn of events.

- Still... That battle at Molsheim Plains has changed a lot.

Though Lang had not seen it herself, many soldiers, including Elias, had.

Tigari's arrow tore through the atmosphere and pierced through the (Vyfal) Wyvern with a speed and power impossible by normal means. It dispersed the clouds and disappeared from view.

He could not believe the tale so suddenly. The scales of a Dragon were strong enough such that blades of iron could not pass through. Furthermore, it would be impossible for an arrow to reach the Wyvern which flew high above.

- But Lord Tigarivurmud pulled it off.

According to Elias, Tigari's bow seemed to respond to his long sword – the Silver Flash Arifal. Though he had never heard of a weapon which could respond to a (Viralt) Dragonic Tool, Elias was sure he had not made a mistake.

- Even if ignoring his attachment to her... it would be best not to part ways now.

If another Vanadar learned of Tigari and the existence of her bow, they would act to take control of her. They may use her as an ally, or they may try to kill her.

- Thinking along those lines, it is best to help her.

If a person with a power rivaling a Vanadar became an ally, it would be easy to maneuver in the future. Even disregarding that power, Tigari's skill with the bow was unusual, and there was no problem with her character as well.

However, a Vanadar prying into a civil war in Brune, especially one which involved a powerful noble, would cause a significant change.

Though Lang gazed at the sky while thinking, he eventually let out a small sigh.

"... This is for Eliasora-sama. I should do my best."

When Lang visited her mansion, Tigari was placing her saddle on the horse in the front garden. At her feet was a bag full of water and food. Nearby, the butler with chestnut-brown hair was locking the door.

"Are you going somewhere?"

Lang spoke with a tone as if cross-examining the two. Titto's body shrunk back in surprise as he heard the voice, while Tigari responded with a vacant expression.

"We'll be heading to the Village of Hunawihr for a bit. We should return by nightfall tomorrow."

"Hunawihr?"

Lang was confused; Tigari answered as she checked the condition of her saddle.

"It is a village I can reach before day's end on horse. It's to the northwest, and Duke Thenardier will have to pass close by before he comes here."

"Are you having the residents take refuge?"

"There are reports that they have fled to the nearby woods, but I wish to make sure."

In Alsace, there were four villages in addition to the town of Celesta; however, the other three were far from Thenardier's path. Still, since there was no news of it being damaged, it was unnecessary for Tigari to check it immediately.

- Though it is not as if I do not understand her feelings...

Though he understood, Lang could not help but feel irritated. They did not have the time for such leisurely activities since they would be fighting Thenardier's Army from now on.

- Also...

Tigari's tone and expression were lacking. This brought Lang's emotions in a negative direction.

"Your butler will be accompanying you?"

Lang asked her because the saddle placed on the horse was large, and Titto was not wearing his butler's suit but thick, hempen clothing.

"Titto will feel anxious if I'm away from the mansion for too long."

- I do not think he is getting cold feet. The bow in her saddle is not the black bow but her normal one.

Tigari tried to run from the Imperial Palace to save the people in her territory at the risk of her own life. It is one of the few things Lang evaluated her highly on.

"I see. Before you return, I would like to examine the records and documents related to Alsace. Will that be fine with you?"

Putting her motive asides, Lang asked her for permission. Still, while his voice was empty, it contained a few thorns.

"I understand. They're in my room and the study. To get there, you-"

While explaining the location to Lang, Tigari turned to Titto who consented. Though dissatisfied, Titto handed the key to the residence to Lang.

"Um..."

"Do not worry. I will not touch anything other than the documents and records as promised."

Lang relaxed his face and slightly smiled at Titto. After he bowed, he ran to Tigari in a panic.

"We're off."

Lang saw Tigari and Titto off as they rode out of town on the horse, seeing Titto snuggle up closely against her, before entering her residence.

The roads laid within Alsace were not good.

The weeds ran rampant, the soil was not flat, and the fence put up near the forests was in poor condition.

Titto, behind Tigari, rode sidesaddle. Though he wanted to hold on to Tigari, he gripped the saddle with both hands so as not to be a hindrance.

Since the horse was carrying two people as well as supplies, it was not very quick, and since he trusted Tigari's equestrian skills, Titto rode in comfort.

- It was a little unreasonable, but I'm glad I asked him for this.

When Tigari said she would head to Hunawihr, Titto insisted that he go with her. Though Tigari was confused, she eventually gave up due to exhaustion.

There were two reasons he wanted to go.

One was to be close to Tigari.

After Tigari left for Dinant, Titto had spent many days and nights alone. His anxiety was severe, especially after learning of the defeat of the Brune Army. During that time, he went to the temple and prayed on a regular basis.

Everything happened in an instant.

Tigari headed for the battlefield with the Zhcted Army. When he thought it possible to meet her again at last, they had become busy with reconstruction of the town, so they did not have time to speak.

He felt Tigari's warmth as he leaned against her back.

"Tigari-sama."

"What is it?"

"I don't know what you are thinking, or what will happen in the future, but I will follow Tigari-sama everywhere."

Titto had noticed Tigari's gloomy appearance since early that morning. That was another reason he followed after her.

- If it were the usual Tigari-sama, she would say today is a good day for hunting. Her expression hasn't changed at all, and she went upstairs immediately after breakfast. It must be something difficult to say to me.

Titto did not understand what Tigari worried about. Even if he knew, as a simple butler, he could not do anything to help her.

Still, Titto wanted to be with Tigari.

No matter what, Titto would be her ally.

"- Thank you, Titto."

The words she returned were full of emotions. Titto was glad the usual Tigari had returned.

Hunawihr was a small village with fewer than two hundred inhabitants.

The forests spread out in the nearby vicinity, and the residents often entered it. As a child, she had played in the forest, and when older, she gathered firewood, nuts, and mushrooms.

Though there were wolves and wild boars in the vicinity, they would rarely attack a group of people so long as their territory was not trespassed. It was a peaceful village.

One koku had passed after midday by the time Tigari and Titto arrived at the village. They took some time to rest and have a meal so they would have the energy to complete their task before the sun set.

When farmers who cultivated the field saw Tigari, they ran up with short steps. Tigari pulled her horse to a stop and helped Titto after dismounting.

"Everyone, are you safe?"

"Yes, Lady, thanks to you."

A middle-aged man had his hand on his head and smiled. The other farmers, as well, followed suit.

"We hid in the forests like you said. They passed by quickly."

"Really, there were many people running away two days ago, Lady."

Tigari heard the farmers' stories one by one before separating from them. She headed to the village chief's while pulling his horse along.

Soon, she saw the village chief who was cultivating the fields, just like the other farmers.

The man was in his mid-forties. His figure was like a barrel and his arms and legs were stout. His skin was tanned and his face was red due to sunburn from spending his time working the fields.

When he noticed Tigari, he walked out of the field.

"Did you come to help with the fields, Lady?"

"Though I can help, won't you just do it all over again?"

The village chief feigned ignorance as Tigari laughed and shrugged her shoulders. In all actuality, Tigari had gripped the hoe only once the last time she tried to help, so her work was terrible.

"Haha, excuse me."

The village chief laughed, his belly shaking, and smiled at Titto. Tigari asked about the damage to the village.

"It's as you see. The fences around the village were destroyed, but we have no injured or dead.

After saying that, the village chief looked serious.

"By the way, I heard a rumor that the Zhcted Army has come..."

"They are allies who I have employed. Don't worry about it."

The village chief looked relieved and laughed after seeing Tigari's confident attitude.

The village chief wanted to celebrate his victory in Molsheim, even if the party would be small. Though he offered a seat to Tigari, Tigari refused since it would take place early tomorrow.

At dawn, Tigari said her farewell to the chief and headed to Celesta on horseback.

Titto did not think she looked well, and, out of consideration, spoke up.

"Tigari-sama. Will you be taking a nap on the way?"

Tigari's legs loosened from around the horse as she heard the unexpected words.

"It's unusual you would say this. Did you not sleep well, Titto?"

"I am still a bit tired..."

Titto answered modestly. Tigari smiled wryly, but she did not reject him. She felt it would soon be time to take a break, regardless.

The sun shined brightly in the blue heavens. The fine weather was no different from yesterday's.

"I wonder if I can trouble them. If I remember, there should be a hut nearby."

Tigari left the road and headed toward a small hut at the top of a hill. It was built from logs, and Tigari had used it numerous times before.

She dismounted and saw no one inside.

In the middle was a plate full of ash. It was used to build a fire, but, from its current state, it had not been used for the past several days.

She tethered the horse outdoors, wiped its body down, and gave it water to drink. Titto helped her as well.

After finishing, the two entered the hut. Titto lay on the floor.

"Titto, you should get some rest. I'm sure it's tiresome riding the horse all the time."

"If I do not stay up, who will wake you up, Tigari-sama?"

Tigari scratched her head upon hearing his joke.

"I got it, but don't do anything unreasonable."

She spoke gently and closed her eyes.

Perhaps fatigued by constantly thinking to herself, Tigari fell asleep immediately.


There was a ten year old boy before her eyes.

"- Tigari-sama."

He spoke with a lisp and had chestnut-brown hair tied on the back of his head. Titto's hazel eyes shined brilliantly.

"Tigari-sama, over here."

Titto laughed innocently as he walked along, gripping Tigari's hand. Tigari quietly followed after him.

Seeing her hands, Tigari realized it was a dream. She was the same age when she met Titto.

The boy and girl walked along the narrow road as fields stretched along both sides.

Before she noticed, Tigari stood before a certain field.

"Tigarivurmud."

One man walked there. It was her father, Urz Vorn, who had died two years ago.

"Come, let's plow."

Tigari's father passed him a hoe.

- Now that I remember, this happened before.

Tigari's thoughts were hazy as she held the hoe.

She was probably 10 years old at the time. Her father was inspecting the village. It was the one time she had been given a hoe.

Though she thought she could do it, her entire body hurt after only a quarter koku. The next day, there were many bean-like injuries on her hands. Titto took a handful of bandages and treated her.

Having held the hoe, her range of vision had changed drastically.

Tigari stood on top of a hill alongside her father.

Before her eyes, green grape fields extended as far as her eye could see.

"Tigarivurmud."

The father spoke gently to his daughter.

"They cultivate the fields every day. They scatter the seeds, water the plants, and drive away the insects and birds, and scare away the hares and wild boars that come to the village. They worry about droughts and fear storms. After harvesting the fields and cleaning them up, they repeat the process again."

As a hunter, I am the same. Tigari answered in that way. Just before, she had caught a large deer.

"Your skill with the bow is splendid, especially for your age; however, it is different from hunters. We do not hunt to live."

Tigari nodded strongly because she did not understand what it meant to live.

"Everyone works the fields to live. Do you understand why it is that you do not do this?"

Because of you, Dad. Because I am the Lord's daughter. This time, Tigari answered firmly. She could not help but blush in embarrassment when recalling the memory. Her father was not angry with her response.

"Then why do I not need to cultivate the fields?"

Because you are great. When he said that, her father slowly shook his head.

"Listen, Tigarivurmud. We are here in case there is an emergency."

"Emergency?"

"That's right. We're there for situations which are difficult to solve. Landslides, floods, bandits, epidemics, poor harvests, disputes amongst villages, clashes with neighboring aristocrats over the rivers and mountains, there are many other things... I am there to try and resolve those problems. Our work is to ensure they live their lives in peace."

"But why do you have to..."

Again, his father shook her head slowly.

"The more people there are, the more trouble that appears. Though Alsace may be small and peaceful..."

At that time, her words stopped. Tigari's father placed his hand on Tigari's head. Even in the dream, Tigari could feel the weight and warmth of her hand.

"Do not forget, Tigarivurmud. This is the Lord's duty."

The feeling of the hand disappeared. Her father walked away quietly. While watching her back, Tigari could not walk. Even if she tried to chase after her father, her feet would not move.

"Dad... Dad – Father."

Then she awoke. She saw the ceiling of the hut and heard the cry of birds outside.

- Father...

How long has it been since I've dreamed of father?

She tried to sit up, but felt a weight and faint heat on her body. Tigari looked down.

Titto was clinging to her, calmly breathing as he slept. Though it surprised him, Tigari quickly regained her composure.

- Did you bring me to meet my father?

In the dream, it was the young Titto that took her to her father. Warmth welled from within her chest. Tigari hugged him gently.

After a while, Titto woke up.

He let out a noise as he looked up at Tigari, half-asleep. His eyes were unfocused.

Titto stood up in a panic as soon as he understood the situation. He waved his hands about, and his face was red. He made many incoherent excuses.

"Ti, Tigari-sama, it's something different. Ah, um... I didn't want to take too much space in case someone entered..."

Tigari smiled wryly as she saw Titto's panic as she thought about her emotions.

Having recalled her father, she was engrossed in sentimental feelings and closely embraced him. In the summer atmosphere in a dim hut, Titto's reaction calmed Tigari down.

"Titto."

Hearing Tigari call out to him in a calm voice, Titto began to settle down.

"Thank you. I owe you one. It was quite refreshing."

Seeing Tigari look as though she were about to laugh, he was relieved the shadow in her face had disappeared. After borrowing the Leitmeritz soldiers from Elias, she had pushed the Thenardier Army back and had not gotten any rest.

Anxiety and fear entered the gap it opened in her heart.

- I can't stop now.

There were many things Tigari had to do.

She had borrowed the strength of the Leitmeritz Army to fight Thenardier's troops.

Though she was anxious about the power of her black bow, she lacked enough clues to find any more information on it. For now, she would put it aside.

"Let's go, Titto."

Tigari stepped out of the hut refreshed. She looked at the cloudless sky.

- If nothing else, at least the weather is good for hunting.

"Tigari-sama."

From behind, Titto spoke in an angry tone.

"Are you thinking of hunting right now?"

"... How did you know?"

"I know. How many years do you think I have been serving you?"

After answering, Titto smiled happily. Realizing he was joking just a moment ago, Tigari smiled bitterly as she helped him mount the horse.

While riding, Tigari called back to Titto.

"Titto. We'll be busy when we get back to Celesta. Our situation is a bit problematic, so I want you to go to Lady Marcia's place for a while-"

"Tigari-sama."

Titto hugged Tigari from behind.

"I said it yesterday. I will follow you everywhere. You have helped me. It is my turn to help you now."

Tigari gently placed her hands on Titto's.

His words were happy, though there was sadness in them. While she was busy worrying, he had long since determined his course of action.

Tigari let go of Titto's hands and kicked the horse's belly.

"Hold on tight."

As if reflecting her heart, the horse fiercely sped up.

The faint warmth and weight of the boy on her back comforted her.

Tigari and Titto arrived at Celesta a half koku faster than scheduled.

Once they returned to the mansion, they noticed a horse in the stable that did not belong to Tigari.

They had often seen this horse; it was white with a black mane which ran down its body.

"This horse is Marcia-sama's...?"

"Yeah, no doubt."

Tigari responded to Titto's surprised voice.

"Titto, can I leave this to you?"

"Yes." Titto nodded and smiled brilliantly. Tigari ran out of the stables and impatiently opened the doors to her house, ignoring the mud on her leather shoes.

She first went to the dining room but found no one there. When she opened the door to the drawing room, she saw Marcia Rodant sitting in place.

Tigari swallowed her voice as she tried to call out the woman's name. The room was wrapped in a dangerous atmosphere which would likely make children cry.

Marcia and Lang were staring at each other across a small table.

- Did they not notice me...?

She closed the door and returned to the stable. She asked Titto what was for dinner. She thought it was the best course of action.

"- So you're back, Tigari."

Marcia turned her head to look at Tigari. Her short stature and stout body was wrapped in clothes with muted clothing. Her wrinkles gave off a dignity fitting for her age.

"You're safe, above all else... I wanted to hear what happened from you. When I came, I saw a man who was neither Titto nor Paul in the house. Isn't this quite a surprise?"

Paul was a houseman in his 50s who lived in the area. He worked as a butler for Tigari's father, Urz, when he was still alive, and he came to help when times were busy.

Though Marcia continued speaking with the good-natured smile the elderly might have, her eyes were not laughing at all.

"And now we have a deputy from Zhcted in Alsace. By all means, please tell me the entire story."

Tigari looked with her eyes toward Lang. He silently sat with his usual expressionless face.

The moving reunion she imagined in her head was nowhere to be found.


Thenardier saw as his army had barely arrived in Nemetacum having barely escaped Alsace. The punishment was severe.

Those who were guarding Zoe, the daughter and heir of the household, and those assisting her in commanding the soldiers were punished with floggings. The ones who whipped them were the bereaved families of soldiers who died in battle.

The whip was intended for use with torture. At each of the ten straps were thorns. The skin tore whenever they hit the back, and the flesh was scooped away. Blood sprayed about with increasing frequency. Since they would be whipped more if they screamed, they clenched their teeth and endured the pain.

The other soldiers were hit hard in the back with a heated iron rod.

Duke Thenardier watched the scene in silence as he poured wine into a silver chalice. Though expressionless, it was clear to anyone who saw that he was angry from the bottom of his heart.

- Zoe was an unreliable fool for her age.

Even so, she was still an important daughter.

Zoe led an army and lost a duel against Tigari. Zoe's corpse sank into a marsh in the Molsheim Plains.

- That fucking bitch... Zhcted...!

Should the situation permit it, he would lead the army himself to invade Alsace and take Tigari's life.

The Duke was 42 this year. His large body was tight and forged, and his skill with the sword, spear, and horse was on par with, if not superior to, a Knight's. His distinguished services on the battlefield were many in number, as well.

Though he had withdrawn from the front lines, he still continued training.

When the punishment ended, he walked indignantly down the corridors of his grand mansion. The Duke returned to his private room on his own.

Though he had emptied four bottles of wine, he was not drunk. He was filled with a murderous intent; the pressure alone could suffocate those nearby.

Though the Duke's room was not fancy in appearance, any who saw it would be reluctant to enter due to the tension.

The carpet was finely embroidered, and the desk was made of ebony. The candlestick was made of gold, and all the accessories were made of silver or gold.

However, the Duke walked violently into the room and dragged the chair from the desk before sitting.

He grasped a bottle of liquor from Asvarre on his desk and poured a glass before drinking it in a flash.

"- You seem out of sorts."

Thenardier glared at the unexpected voice.

A short old woman in a black robe stood in front of the open door. She wore a hood over her eyes, covering her face.

"Drekavitch."

The Duke nearly spat out the liquor in his mouth and almost knocked the empty bottle over. The old woman bowed as she held back her laughter.

Drekavitch had served the Thenardier family as a soothsayer for many years.

In this residence, no, even throughout all of Brune, the old woman was the only one permitted to speak insolently to Thenardier. If a servant had done the same thing, he and his family would likely be executed within the same day.

"I believe you have heard the stories."

"Zoe-sama has died. You have my condolences from the bottom of my heart-"

"There is no need to say it. I don't expect such things from you."

Thenardier interrupted Drekavitch's words and stared at the elderly person's face beneath the hood.

"I am grateful; however, you are far too lenient in your punishment, Your ExcElency."

"It is regrettable, but I need the soldiers now. I cannot just kill them as I please."

In fact, he had lost two thousand soldiers and two Dragons. It was an unexpected blow. An unknown aristocrat in a remote place should not have been able to do that.

However, it appears Tigarivurmud Vorn appeared with the Zhcted Army and killed Zoe and both Dragons, and three thousand of her men had scattered.

"Ignoring the soldiers colliding against one another... Was it the girl from Alsace or the Vanader from Zhcted that killed the dragon?"

Catching Thenardier's fierce eyes, Drekavitch slowly nodded.

"I should first inform you. The seven Vanadar from Zhcted possess a weapon known as a (Viralt) Dragonic Tool."

"... I have only heard of its name. Is this Dragonic Tool truly so powerful?"

"There is nothing that can compare. It can cut through a soldier with ease and has a special power which allows it to crush a Dragon."

Though the Dragons truly were killed, Thenardier would simply laugh those words off if they came from anyone other than Drekavitch.

"What is the weapon made of?"

"It is not made of anything found in the earth."

Thenardier's black beard trembled hearing Drekavitch's response.

"I see. So it can easily cut through a Dragon's scales which can easily fend away steel."

"It is such a weapon."

Thenardier simply believed those words which normally would seem like a joke.

"I understand. Can you prepare new Dragons?"

"I can finish it by the new year, though I will need some money."

Drekavitch bowed as Thenardier agreed. Though he thought to ask whether it could be done sooner, he understood it would not be possible any sooner due to their long association.

Thenardier picked up a bright silver bell on her desk and rang it.

He ordered his attendant to quickly prepare a bag the size of a human head to be filled with gold.

"By the way, what of Earl Vorn and the Vanadar?"

"I will take care of it. Please hurry with the Dragons."

The Duke waved his thick hand as Drekavac soundlessly disappeared. When the door closed, the Duke tapped his temple with his finger. He was finally feeling the effects of the alcohol.

"... It can't be helped."

Thenardier muttered bitterly. He wanted to kill Tigari with his own hand, but he had only one body and could not prepare an infinite number of soldiers.

"Though it may seem like using an axe to slaughter an insect, perhaps I will use the (Sherash) [Seven Chains]. Also-"

He rung the bell again, summoning a second servant. He quickly gave orders and then quickly drank a cup of water.

"Use a Knight for a Knight, a Dragon for a Dragon... and a Vanadar for a Vanadar. I suppose I could use that connection."

While looking at his reflection in his silver chalice, Thenardier slowly muttered to himself.

"Speaking of which, I believe Ganelon also has an association with one of the Vanadar of Zhcted. I wonder what that woman is up to..."

End of Chapter 1


Chapter 2
The Two Vanadar

Tigari brought a chair from another room specifically to sit next to Marcia. She hesitated to sit next to Lang.

"The seat next to mine is vacant."

Lang turned his gaze coldly toward her. He was sitting on a sofa spacious enough for two adults to be seated. Of course, his remark was not one made from good will.

"- Tigari."

Leaning on the couch with her arms folded, Marcia glared at Lang.

"I'm quite glad you're safe. There's been quite a lot piling up that I've wanted to talk to you about since Dinant, but I've been quite anxious since I met this little Sir... I thought something bad may have happened to you."

Tigari wanted to bury her hands in her head. In the future, their help would be indispensable. She had been worrying about what to say even before this moment.

While thinking about what to say first, light footsteps mixed with humming approached. Titto opened the door and looked inside.

"Marcia-sama! You came!"

"Oh, Titto. It seems you're safe."

Marcia smiled from ear to ear upon seeing the butler with chestnut-brown hair. If Tigari was something like a daughter to the old Knight, Titto would be like her son. Though she had her own children, she still felt a strong affection for the two.

"Everyone, let's have some tea."

Without forgetting about Lang, Titto bowed before politely leaving the room. The intense atmosphere had finally calmed down, granting Tigari some time to relax.

"Lady Marcia, allow me to explain the situation first. Lang... Langlisha, if you feel the need to give more information, please do so."

Tigari described what happened to her after she met Elias in Dinant. Marcia listened silently and nodded, while Lang occasionally looked to Tigari without saying anything.

When she finished speaking, Titto arrived with tea for three.

Tigari took a drink to quench her parched throat and thanked Titto.

For a while, Marcia gazed at the tea in her cup. When Titto left the room, she looked up toward Lang.

She placed her hands on her knees and bowed deeply.

"Langlisha, First, I apologize for doubting your words."

"It could not be helped. I will apologize as well for not greeting you properly."

"Before I got back, what on earth happened?"

Tigari was finally able to ask about what happened between the two.

"Lady Marcia arrived while I was inspecting the documents in this room."

"I will admit, I was lacking in composure. I saw the (Zirnitra) Black Dragon Flag of Zhcted waving in the town. I came to your mansion to visit you, and instead, I found the commander of the Zhcted Army. I didn't see Titto here, either."

"... I apologize for the trouble."

Tigari could do nothing but apologize.

She had not forgotten Marcia, but he did not think he would come to visit.

"By the way, Langlisha, there was something I wanted to ask you."

While stroking her chin, Marcia turned her dark eyes toward Lang.

"Why did you... no, why did the Lord you serve, the Vanadar Eliasora Viltaria, decide to help Tigari?"

"Eliasora-sama respects her righteousness, and he is a soft-hearted person."

Tigari mentally inclined her head, though she remained silent because she could not deny his words.

"However, is that really enough to make a move?"

"He also respects the contract under the name of Radegast."

Radegast was a God of Contract common to the faith of Zhcted and Brune. A promise bearing her name was a very heavy thing.

"Though Lady Tigarivurmud had become Eliasora-sama's captive, she is also Earl Vorn, Lady of Alsace. In accordance to the contract, she will have our cooperation and will repay us with this territory."

"I see. However, the land of Alsace is primarily under Tigari's charge, but it was not hers originally. The King of Brune granted her family the territory under the contract that they would protect the citizens of Brune; however, she has no rights to business. I believe the Vanadar understands this."

Marcia was implicitly asking if he was going to make a deal with Brune as a whole.

"If that is the case, then we will simply negotiate with the King of Brune."

"... So, until that time, you will help Tigari... Earl Vorn?"

Marcia asked to confirm their intent, and Lang simply nodded while giving it some thought in his mind.

- I should see how committed he is.

"That is our intention."

Lang had thought she would be unwilling to fight. He wanted to hear Tigari's thoughts while Marcia was present.

"Of course, that depends on Lady Tigarivurmud's behavior. Should Eliasora-sama deem her justice unworthy... we will simply move back across the Vosyes Mountains."

"I'll do my best."

Hearing Tigari's short response and seeing her shrug her shoulders, Lang scrutinized her carefully.

Though he did not know what caused such a rapid change, he saw an adamant will within her eyes.

- I don't know what happened in these past two days...

Lang was relieved. His role was to assist Tigari, but if Tigari did not move forward on her own, he would be useless.

"By the way, Lady Marcia. I would like to hear, no, please, teach me. What has become of Duchess Ganelon's soldiers? How did you stop them?"

Duchess Ganelon had also moved her soldiers, but she did not attack Alsace.

In the letter Marcia gave to Batran, which alerted them of the attack by Duchess Thenardier, Marcia said she would deal with Duchess Ganelon's men.

"Hm, about that..."

Marcia stroked her chin.

"If I were to say anything, I would say I was lucky. I was barely able to buy time."

Duchess Ganelon had amassed two thousand troops in her territory, Lutetia, three days before Duke Thenardier did.

The distance to Alsace was not very different between the two. If the Ganelon Army began marching, they would have invaded Alsace before Thenardier's Army, and everything would have gone smoothly.

The first thing Marcia did to stop Ganelon's Army was to appeal to the neighboring aristocrats. Though they were similar weak aristocrats who desired neutrality above all else, she would not give up. To prevent the movements of the army, she had to call on such people.

She continued running to various places, summoning the nobles, since she knew it would help Tigari.

She had managed to gather four people. Marcia wished to gather more, but she could not with the limited time. The five people, including herself, came in contact with the Ganelon Army.

They prepared alcohol and meals for two thousand soldiers and entertained them. They did all this so they could request a meeting with the commander as a neutral party.

"The Ganelon Army will stop marching, and we will relay your message. Though, as you may expect, we will likely only delay our movements."

Tigari felt suspicious upon seeing Marcia's gloomy expression.

"Did something bad happen?"

"They were searching for information on the nearby aristocrats and released many scouts... I think the Ganelon Army used us as an excuse when they had intended to stop already."

Marcia shook her head as her stout body cringed.

"You think they had a reason not to attack Alsace?"

"I'm not exactly sure. They stopped moving after hearing Thenardier had prepared three thousand men and two Dragons."

After finishing her words, Marcia looked at Tigari and Lang skeptically.

"Tigari. Is it true the Zhcted Army killed the two Dragons? Even living for more than fifty years, and I have never seen a Dragon. No, I did see a young Dragon when I was training in a rural village."

"It is true."

Tigari confirmed it after exchanging a glance with Lang.

"The Vanadar, Eliasora-sama slayed both."

Marcia frowned and groaned several times. He let out a large breath soon enough.

"If it is as you say, then I will not ask any further. As soon as the Ganelon Army learned of the existence of the Dragons, they made preparations to withdraw. They left before Duke Thenardier's defeat was made public. Perhaps they simply postponed their attack."

Marcia quickly drank the rest of the tea after she finished speaking.

"Now, Tigari. What will you be doing from now on?"

"I will fight Duke Thenardier."

Marcia had asked in a solemn tone, but Tigari answered immediately without any sign of doubt in her eyes.

"Do you mean to join Duchess Ganelon?"

"No. I do not intend to."

Ganelon was no different, since she was attempting to attack Alsace as well.

It would be impossible for her to work with either.

"... So this is the conclusion you have reached after giving it thought?"

Marcia gazed at Tigari, leaning her entire body forward. Tigari looked her straight on without flinching and nodded.

"Honestly speaking, it's frightening and I'd rather run away. After all, they're the top two aristocrats, and I'm just a small noble at the borders of the country. What can I do? Even so-"

Tigari put strength in her voice and continued.

"I have succeeded Alsace from my Father, and I have an obligation to defend the people who live in this land. Even if I had no obligation, I would still desire to defend them. To protect them in moments of peril is my duty as Lady."

"Tigari..."

Marcia silently watched the youth with red hair. She watched the daughter of her best friend.

"This road will be steep, more so than you might think. Duke Thenardier will not let you go for killing his daughter, and you brought the troops of Zhcted into our lands. There will be many who criticize you and very few who will approve of your actions."

It was not a threat but a fact.

"Though I hesitate to say this before Langlisha, but the Zhcted Army is also fighting for their own convenience. Even then, will you ally yourself with Zhcted and fight?"

"You really aren't being optimistic at all."

Tigari smiled and answered frankly.

"Well, I'll manage somehow."

Marcia nearly cried out indignantly hearing Tigari's bad habit of saying those words.

However, she noticed Tigari's eyes were full of sincerity. Instead, the old woman swallowed her words and let out a sigh.

"You need to say it more firmly."

The sun had fallen.

Titto brought more tea as they took a break before resuming their conversation. The setting sun shined through the window, forming a delicate shadow in the room.

"There are two possibilities I can think of at the moment. One is to send a letter to His Majesty, the King."

She would write that Alsace was unlawfully attacked by Duke Thenardier. In order to stop them, she borrowed the strength of the Zhcted Army.

"Since it might be effective, should we do it?"

Lang's blue eyes looked doubtful.

"I am unsure of how effective this would be. He might not do anything to protect the status quo. Also, if he did something about Duke Thenardier, Duchess Ganelon might use the opportunity to attack. What is the other option?"

"Search for allies."

Though Elias and the Zhcted Army were strong, they would still push away many potential allies as Lang stated before.

"For now, we're a bit light."

Though Marcia smiled bitterly, and Tigari spoke seriously.

"Lord Marcia. How is the situation in Brune now? What of the fight between Duke Thenardier and Duchess Ganelon?"

"Hm. Right..."

Marcia cast her gaze to Lang.

"Should I wait outside until you have finished your business?"

He did not particularly show any dissatisfaction as he began to stand.

"No, you need to be here."

Tigari shook her head and turned her gaze to Marcia.

"Lady Marcia, he is my ally. If you are willing to speak to me, then he may stay as well."

Lang raised his own concern at that time.

"I am not Eliasora-sama. You have no reason to trust me."

"Elias trusts you. Isn't that why he left you here? If so, then I trust you as well. Also, there are many things I don't know that you do."

A small smile appeared on Tigari's face as she gave him an answer. Lang, whose expression remained unfriendly, felt a mixture of guilt and embarrassment.

"... If you are willing to go that far, then I shall remain as Eliasora-sama's representative."

With a sigh, Lang sat back on the sofa. After looking at Tigari and Lang, Marcia placed a thick finger on the table and resumed the conversation.

"Tigari. Like I said before, everyone in Brune is waiting for the upcoming civil war. There are also those afraid of what might be happening in the neighboring countries... Zhcted, Muozinel, Sachstein, and Asvarre. They are also paying close attention."

"So there are no powers other than Thenardier and Ganelon in the country? In other words, there are some who are still unaffiliated..."

This was the information Tigari wanted more than anything else.

"That's true."

Marcia brought her hand to her chest as she nodded. She pulled out several coins of silver and copper.

"When it comes to the power in this country... Let's say it amounts to one hundred in total. Duke Thenardier and Duchess Ganelon would amount to forty... no, thirty each. You belong to the remaining forty."

She placed two large silver coins on the table.

"If that's the case, there's room for opposition."

Lang looked doubtful as he spoke. Marcia simply shook her head.

"Within that forty, thirty would be taken by the various Knighthoods in the country. They unite to defend the borders and the capitals. The remaining nobles would only represent the remaining ten."

Marcia stacked numerous copper coins on the table.

Though numerous, they looked weak in comparison to the silver coins which brilliantly reflected the sunlight coming in from the window.

"However, Tigari, your situation is different from the other nobles."

The atmosphere became serious as Marcia placed a small silver coin on the table.

"You have the Vanadis of Zhcted as an ally. Though you shouldn't rely on them too much, if you do things well, you can bring the remaining aristocrats to your side. If you ignore the Knights who will remain neutral, you could become a third force."

"That's... somewhat amazing."

Seeing the many silver and copper coins on the table, Tigari swallowed her saliva. If she could manage to do this, she might be able to fight evenly with Duke Thenardier.

"In the end, that is only if you can do this."

Lanf pierced through her with cold words.

"In the first place, Lady Tigarivurmud is a rebel who sold her territory to our country. It is only a matter of time before a punitive force is organized to subjugate her."

"It will not come immediately."

Marcia denied his words. Lang gazed at her expecting an explanation.

"Langlisha, what would you do against a force that defeated three thousand soldiers and two Dragons?"

Lanf had a tendency to look downward while he thought about something. After asking, Marcia continued to speak.

"If they brought the same number, they may lose again. They would need to prepare at least six thousand men, and that would take time. Even if they recruited soldiers from the neighboring aristocrats, there are not many who would want to join."

"... Also, Lady Tigarivurmud is not their only opponent. So that is what you meant."

Lang nodded in consent. Duke Thenardier and Duchess Ganelon recognized each other as their largest enemy.

"However, we do not have the time to relax."

After staring at the silver coins on the table, Tigari collected her thoughts.

Their resources were vastly different. In the time Tigari could organize three hundred soldiers, Thenardier would gather ten thousand.

"Tigari. You mentioned it before, but who will you send to bring your letter to His Majesty?"

"I have not made the decision yet."

Thinking about the current situation, it would be dangerous to head to the King's Capital. There was the possibility Duke Thenardier would obstruct his actions, as well, and it was a task he did not intend to leave to others.

"I will take it."

Marcia spoke with a light-hearted tone, surprising Tigari.

"Wa, wait. I can't ask you to do this, Lord Marcia..."

"What now? You're leading the army of another country. Besides, unlike you, I have several acquaintances working in the Royal Palace. It should be much easier for me to gain an audience with His Majesty."

Though Tigari hesitated, Marcia was, without a doubt, the most qualified person. After worrying for a while, she bowed deeply.

"... In that case, thank you very much. I will prepare the letter by tomorrow morning."

Marcia nodded, her thick body swaying.

"By the way, Tigari. Do you know Viscount Hilary Augre?"

Tigari searched through her memories having abruptly heard the name. She recalled hearing it long ago.

"If I remember... She governs Territoire. Father brought me to greet her when I was small."

"Augre is currently neutral, and she has many acquaintances. I'll write a letter of introduction, so you should go meet her."

Tigari could not hold back her emotions. She leaned forward and grasped Marcia's hands tightly.

"... Thank you, Lady Marcia!"

"Honestly. You're before a man. Can't you act more gallantly?"

Marcia smiled wryly and looked at Tigari calmly. She gently tapped the young woman's shoulder.

"Don't worry about me, Tigari. I'm glad to be of use."

When Tigari had become a captive in Zhcted, Marcia could not do anything, no matter what efforts she made. She felt how powerless she was and regretted it deeply. She had continued to apologize to Tigari's deceased father, Urz.

"Langlisha, do you have any questions?"

With Marcia's question, Lang turned his blue eyes to Tigari.

"Lady Tigarivurmud, I wish to know the reason you are fighting Duke Thenardier. I want something concrete. For example, do you wish to destroy the entire household?"

Marcia stared wide-eyed at this radical question, while Tigari simply shook her head in denial.

"My purpose is the peace of Alsace. It is fine if Duke Thenardier would swear never to lay a hand on it... is what I would like to say."

Tigari played with her dull red hair after saying those words.

However, even if she was embarrassed, she was not troubled. She had made her decision and had the resolution to follow through with it.

"I can't really ask people to work for me without pay, so I will likely end up demanding money or territory."

After the conversation had finished, and Lang left the room. The sun had almost sunk below the horizon.

He was glad that Tigari had made her resolve.

- Perhaps it's her character. Though lacking in some areas, I just have to assist her.

Still, he was relieved. When Lang noticed his feelings, he understood he was happy because it would be more convenient for Elias.

Though Lang intended to leave the house, he headed to the dining room while deep in thought. Teit was bustling about the kitchen in preparation for dinner, setting the tableware down.

"... Did you need something?"

Titto noticed Lang and walked over cautiously.

"I have a favor to ask of you."

Lang abruptly lifted his arm and pointed to a small doll hung along the wall. It was small enough to fit in the palm of his hand; it was a bear doll.

"If you do not mind, may I have that? Um... I have a friend who loves them."

As Lang had said to Titto before, he had not set foot in any room other than Tigari's room and the study; however, when he passed by the dining room, he noticed the doll and had been anxious since then.

The latter half of Lang's words were spoken in an unnatural tone, though Titto had not noticed. His handsome face frowned as he looked up at Lang.

"But isn't it quite dirty?"

"I do not mind."

Titto looked at Lang and the doll with a perplexed expression.

It was a doll Titto made a year ago to decorate the empty wall.

"If you want, I can make you the same thing by the end of tomorrow."

Lang leaned forward swiftly while remaining impassive before Titto could finish speaking. Titto nearly let out a cry in surprise.

"Is it really okay?"

"Y, yes..."

"Please, by all means."

Though Lang had an expressionless face, he was desperately suppressing his joy which clearly showed in his eyes. For Titto, it was something he could make normally, but it was a rare item for Lang.

After saying he would return the next day to pick it up, Lang left the house in good spirits.


The Royal Capital of Silesia was located near the center of Zhcted Kingdom.

More than one million people lived in the capital. To the north was the large Valta River which passed into the sea. Products from various countries also passed through the numerous roads entering the city.

Carriages held items full of bamboo from the east, furs and and oils from nomadic peoples, and spices, pottery, tea, and silver ornaments from Muozinel to the south.

The caravans from the west held wheat, wine, and minerals from Brune and Sachstein. Fleets which moved along the Valta River brought fish and pearls caught in the seas near Asvarre. There were even fishes larger than an adult.

There were also domestic goods, such as wool, jewels, and spices from the seven Dukedoms. In return for defending Zhcted, the local farmers also brought fresh fruits, vegetables, and egg products to be sold.

In select taverns throughout the city, Zhcted minstrels could be heard strumming their shamisen harps. Jesters from Brune and dancers from Zhcted could also be found entertaining the people, and beautiful women served guests alcohol.

Befitting the Royal Capital, Silesia, even at night, was full of light and energy.

"It's lively as usual."

Elias walked through on his horse happily as he looked about. He was dressed in a natural leather armor and a hempen cloak like a humble traveler.

Because Arifal stood out, it was wrapped in cloth and set on his waist. The (Viralt) Dragonic Tool was dissatisfied, and, occasionally, the cloth could be seen swelling as it wrapped itself in wind.

"Goodness. I'd like to buy some fruit and look at some of the entertainment."

Still, he had not gone to the capital for such a reason. There was no telling who was watching him or from where. Eventually, he arrived at the Palace and took the appropriate posture. When the soldiers saw him, they bowed reverently.

"Eliasora Viltaria-sama. Please allow us to see your Dragonic Tool."

"You knew it was me immediately."

"We are working hard to keep the Palace safe."

Elias removed the cloth wrapped about Arifal as they looked at him in admiration. The longsword, happy to be freed, let out a wind that tickled his argent hair.

"Are there other Vanadar here?"

"Ludmiller Lourie-sama and Sophocles Obertas-sama have arrived."

Elias returned the Silver Flash to his waist and passed beneath the gate to the Royal Palace. His expression was subtle.

- Sophia aside, Ludmiller's here...

He did not get along well with Ludmiller. To be more precise, they had a poor relationship.

"Well, that's fine. I'll take care of the troublesome business first."

Elias walked between the people of the Royal Palace. His argent hair was decorated, and he was wrapped in a silver-white suit.

Though Silver Flash Arifal was conspicuously held in his left hand, it did not ruin the handsomeness of the Vanadar; rather, it gave him a strength to offset his appearance.

The court officials sitting in the rows sighed, overwhelmed by his handsome face and gallant behavior.

Usually, when having an audience with the King, it is not permissible to carry a weapon. The only exception was a Vanadar and his Dragonic Tool.

Elias quietly walked down the crimson carpet to the throne before stopping his feet and kneeling. He placed Arifal on the floor before his and hung his head.

"You may raise your face."

A dry voice, like a withered tree, came from the throne above. It was the voice of the King of Zhcted, Victor.

According to Elias's memory, the King was 60 this year. His gray hair and beard were carefully maintained, his skin was darkening, and his blue eyes were lacking in vitality. Though he sat with his spine upright, the hands extending from his clothing, which were nothing but skin and bones, were relaxed.

"... Master of the (Koma no Zanki) [Brilliant Beheader of the Fallen Spirit], Eliasora Viltaria. I have heard you have moved your army into Brune without receiving prior permission."

"It is as His Majesty says."

"For what reason have you done this? You may receive a suitable punishment for thoughtless behavior."

"I have come to obtain His Majesty's pardon."

- I'll definitely get your permission.

Though he thought that in his mind, Elias responded meekly. Before leaving Tigari's mansion, he had consulted with Lang about a proper excuse.

"I was hired."

The audience was silent. King Victor was at a loss for words. His body trembled as he stared at Ellen. Ellen's solemn attitude remained.

"Employed... by whom?"

"Earl Tigarivurmud Vorn. She is an aristocrat of Brune and lady of Alsace. She is hiring one thousand of my men and me as their commander."

"The Vanadar of Zhcted is acting like a mercenary..."

A groan, mixed with the grinding of teeth, came from between Victor's thin lips.

Elias ignored the reaction and began explaining the situation in Brune. He spoke of the clash that would inevitably occur between Duke Thenardier and Duchess Ganelon in the near future.

"The territory I govern, LeitMeritz, is along the border with Brune. If a civil war occurs, it may spark trouble here. When Earl Vorn decided to employ my services, I thought to use Alsace as a shield to prevent any problems occurring here."

"To think a spark may occur here is simply speculation."

King Victor frowned maliciously.

"Though it may be speculation, I believe it will occur, Your Majesty. Duke Thenardier lawlessly violated his territory. In the confusion, he could easily expand his influence. For that reason, Earl Vorn-"

King Victor interrupted Elias's words with a wave of his hand.

"This is still an invasion of Brune. This is not a problem of just LeitMeritz alone; it will lead to a war between Zhcted and Brune. I have no intention of doing such a thing."

When Elias began to object, a man willingly advanced.

"With all due respect, I wish to speak, Your Majesty."

His pale golden hair gently undulated, and his irises were the color of beryl. He was around 20 years old.

His gentle smile gave him a graceful atmosphere. He was a tall, handsome man with a charm differing from Elias'. His well-developed body and thin waist were wrapped in a pale green suit, and he had splendid ridges which could enchant both man and woman alike.

Within his hand was a staff which let off a mysterious glow.

"... Sophocles Obertas?"

King Victor sighed in annoyance. The handsome man called Sophocles bowed gentlemanly and placed his staff on the ground.

"Throughout history, there are numerous examples of a foreign power being employed to handle a domestic struggle for supremacy. There are far too many that I do not have the time to list them all. Eliasora has responded to Earl Vorn's request after judging its effects on LeitMeritz. Though there is an issue regarding the time it took him to report to Your Majesty, the beast known as war has always valued speed above all else since ancient times. I believe he had no other choice."

Sophocles spoke softly and modestly. His words quietly sunk into her ears tinged with an atmosphere that was hard to reject.

King Victor nodded silently, prompting him to continue.

"The situation in Brune is exactly as he has said. I feel it unlikely that his actions will make new enemies. Should others come to learn of our intent, we need only explain the situation. If it should come to an attack, I believe we should welcome them."

Noise erupted between the courtiers.

Sophocles was also a Vanadar. The weight of his words was different from those of others.

"... You wish to say I should allow Eliasora to do as he pleases?"

"Unlike the surrounding countries, we have an excuse to intervene in the civil war that will occur in Brune. If you punish Eliasora here, we will throw away our right of domination to other countries."

King Victor closed his eyes and pressed against them with his fingers in irritation as he let out a sigh. As King of a country, he could not easily overlook this. He looked to Elias in dissatisfaction.

"Eliasora. What is Earl Vorn's purpose? Will she deprive Duke Thenardier of all his territories after killing him? Is her ultimate goal the throne?"

Elias looked downward. It was necessary to suppress his laughter.

- Of course the King would think so... But it's difficult to imagine Tigari on the throne.

"According to her words, her goal is the peace of Alsace; however, she will not be able to achieve that until Duke Thenardier dies. She will likely gain some territory, though."

"What is the compensation for your services?"

"The reward corresponds to the quality of our service. She will pay our men, compensate for the cost of war, and reward soldiers as appropriate."

"And what of the territory you receive?"

- So it's come down to this, after all.

The King was only afraid that Elias may gain power.

"If she yields any land, I will not take a single bit of it. I will present it to Your Majesty. All people in this place are witnesses."

"... Very well. I will leave the affairs of Earl Vorn to you."

Elias let out a soft breath hearing those words; he was finally freed.

"I have no intent in intervening in Brune's civil war. First and foremost, act in Zhcted's national interests and refrain from taking rash actions."


Elias walked away from the audience and stopped moving once he had taken some distance.

Though the long corridor was not decorated, the sunshine entered between the columns at equal intervals, giving it a warm atmosphere. Elias let out a breath of relief immediately after escaping the heavy air during the audience.

The members of the audience would definitely pass by this corridor. Elias leaned against a pillar with his arms folded, waiting for Sophia.

"- As disgraceful as ever, Eliasora."

The boy spoke in a thorny tone and looked at him with contempt.

He was of small stature and had blue hair trimmed at his shoulders. Matching his hair were clothes made of blue silk luxuriously decorated with red and gold. In his hand was a short spear.

The spear had a mysterious atmosphere and silently released cold air. As if reacting to it, Arifal began wrapping itself in wind.

"... It seems you haven't grown at all, either, Ludmiller."

Catching the boy's condescending gaze, Elias smiled poorly toward the boy named Ludmiller and placed his hand on his head in a familiar manner.

"Hm? Far from growing up, it seems you've shrunk. Perhaps your constant bowing and modest attitude are the reason. I should teach you how to stand upright so you can look taller. Incidentally, it'll make your chests look harder."

"... It seems you can speak better. I am surprised the embodiment of rudeness and uncouth behavior, even if clad in human skin, can teach anything. I wonder if a star will fall tomorrow."

Even if he was angry, Ludmiller did not follow Elias' provocations. He calmly brushed off the hand stroking his head with a coercive attitude.

"I will have to refrain. Before you think of teaching me anything, you should look at yourself, first. Even a quick tempered and wild Dragon looks elegant compared to you."

"... Returning an offer of good will with an insult. Isn't that quite a classy response?"

"Your courtesy is to insult a person's physical characteristics. It would be good to learn propriety, Eliasora."

"Unfortunately, before I became a Vanadar, my life was unrelated to courtesy."

Elias laughed and shrugged in a hostile manner while Ludmiller looked up and ridiculed him with his eyes.

"Courtesy and character are some of the few things possible to acquire with intent and effort. From your audience a moment ago, I could not feel any intellect or dignity as a Vanadar of Zhcted."

"I'm not sure a man who carries a bottle of tea and jam at his waist can speak of dignity."

Elias' words finally touched a sore spot. Ludmiller retorted angrily.

"I do not have it today. Unlike you, I understand there are appropriate times and places."

"To begin with, this is the first I've heard of dignity being a requirement for a Vanadar. Though it's your freedom to embrace such delusions, don't talk as if it were common sense."

With intense anger in their eyes, the two boys glared at one another. Language was no longer necessary. Elias had his hand on his longsword, and Ludmiller had grasped his short spear.

There was a hair-trigger atmosphere floating in the surroundings. Unfortunately, all the government officials had to pass by; they simply walked away, pretending they saw nothing.

"- Take that."

A cute voice suddenly sounded between the two, as Elias and Ludmiller were hit with a hard thing.

"What..."

Elias turned in anger, but swallowed the rest of his words.

Sophocles Obertas smiled softly as he gazed at Elias and Ludmiller.

"Really. Fighting is bad, you two."

There was nothing powerful in his words. He simply smiled and spoke as if scolding two mischievous children.

However, Elias and Ludmiller stood in silence with an awkward and annoyed expression respectively. They noticed, through the thin shield that was Sophocles' beautiful face, that he was slightly angry. Though those used to seeing him would easily miss the faint change in his expression, they could easily tell he was mad. The two knew firsthand not to further offend Sophocles.

"Honestly... Why is it that you two only quarrel when you see one another?"

"This fucking man-"

On reflex, Elias and Ludmiller pointed to each other and answered in harmony.

Because they began glaring at each other, Sophocles hit their heads once again.

"By the way, Elias. Why are you here? I thought you would have left the Royal Palace by now."

Although questioned by Sophocles, Elias mumbled for a moment, obediently expressing his gratitude.

"Thank you, Sopho. Your good word saved me. Though I didn't intend to give up obediently, it would have taken a lot longer."

"I believe if it were to go on any longer, your faults would be exposed."

"Look, it would not have been amusing at all if the dignity of all Vanadar were to be besmirched by your speech and conduct."

Sophocles – Sopho – smiled bitterly as Ludmiller huffed with a cold tone.

Elias, while fiddling with the pearls sewn into her vest to conceal his irritation, spoke in a disgruntled manner.

"I need to talk to Sopho. You should get out of here."

"For both our sake, I will do that; however, I wish to hear something before I leave."

Ludmiller, with arms folded, stared at Elias seriously.

"- This Earl Vorn, though I do not know what kind of country noble she is, but why would you partner with her and intervene in the civil war brewing in Brune?"

"Why should I bother to tell you? This has no relation to you."

Angered with her being called a country noble, Elias answered in a voice that did not hide his anger.

"I feel sorry that she met up with a Vanadar like you."

Ludmiller had a smile of pity as he left with his parting remark. He quietly walked down the hall of the Royal Palace.

The next moment, the sound of pearls rolling on the floor could be heard as they fell from Elias' hands. He had torn them out of his vest without realizing, leaving small holes in his clothes.

"Sopho... Do you have any needle and thread?"

"This will only get worse if an amateur does this. Besides-"

After seeing Ludmiller's small back disappear, Sopho lightly sighed. His usual smile was erased, seeing as Elias looked at him in embarrassment.

"Elias. You... Yes. You have turned Ludmiller into an enemy."

Elias' expression turned to that of a soldier hearing Sopho's words.

"Tell me in detail."

In a corner of the vast Royal Palace, there was a small garden with a fountain.

Water was pulled from the moat and continued flowing except for during winter when the fountain would freeze. It was shaped like a large fish, and with the sound of the flowing water, it provided cover for both vision and sound. It was frequently used for secret meetings.

After grabbing some fruit juice from the kitchen, Elias and Sopho visited the garden and sat at the edge of the fountain.

"Why will Ludmiller become my enemy if I side with Tigari?"

"It is simple."

Sopho's pale golden hair rocked as he took a drink.

"Miller – Ludmiller has a long association with Duke Thenardier."

"That boy and Thenardier?"

Elias looked in disbelief.

"I don't understand. I investigated Duke Thenardier, and he's not the kind of person I would want to have ties with. He's the type he would hate. No, I don't know what he thinks..."

"Are you worried?"

"The area she governs, Olmutz, is near LeitMeritz."

Elias' response had become somewhat perverse. He quietly sipped his juice as he stared at Sopho.

The Vanadar's Dukedoms were scattered about Zhcted. Due to the various territories governed by the King, their lands were never adjacent.

There were two Dukedoms near LeitMeritz which belonged to other Vanadis, one of which was Olmutz. Elias was not worried about the other Dukedom ruled by a Vanadar because he was, like Sopho, close with its ruler.

"It is not just him, either. Many aristocrats in this country have connections to Duke Thenardier or Duchess Ganelon in some way."

Elias frowned. Sopho looked about and eventually set his eyes on the fountain as he watched the water flow.

"Elias. Have you heard of the story [The Merchant of Muenz]?"

"I haven't. Who's that?"

"It was a story from before we were born. A man named Muenz and his wife had a son and daughter. Every day, he was violent towards the three. There was not a single day they did not have a swollen face, they had bruises all over their body, and they cried in pain at night."

"... This is the kind of story that makes the juice taste bad."

Elias clearly looked displeased.

"A certain day, Muenz was stabbed by his son and died. There were many people who lamented his death."

Elias looked at Sopho, hearing such unexpected words. Sopho smiled with mixed feelings.

"As a merchant, Muenz was more honest and competent than anyone else. He never broke a promise, he was never late, and his goods were always of high quality."

"... So Thenardier is the same."

"Yes. Duchess Ganelon, who is hostile toward him, is as well. Aside from domestic affairs, they do everything to represent Brune in such a manner that they do not bring shame to their country. They are from reliable and distinguished families who govern vast, rich lands, and they are widely adaptable... Even you trade with people you do not get along with, correct?"

Elias could not object; rather, he pouted like a sulking child. Sopho continued speaking as he looked at Elias with care.

"Duke Thenardier is now the enemy of both Earl Vorn and you. There are benefits if he wins, and it will be problematic for many if he loses."

Elias placed the ceramic glass with juice down and looked at it in disgust.

"I understand what you're saying. So, Ludmiller is one of those people."

"That is correct. However, Elias, your evaluation of Ludmiller is correct. He does not like Duke Thenardier; rather, you may say he hates him."

"In that case-"

His words were stuck in his throat.

"Right. [The Merchant of Muenz]."

Sopho's golden hair swayed as he shook his head.

"Above all, they have had a long relationship. It is something that has existed since long before that boy was born. It is an excellent connection which has lasted many decades. Do you seriously think that child will end it due to his personal emotions?"

"Certainly..."

He let out a few words. Ellis dimly gazed at the water flowing out of the fountain as his legs dangled.

"- By the way, Elias. There is something I would also like to ask you."

"What?"

Elias sat up and glanced at Sopho to his side.

"Earl Vorn. What kind of person is she that you would willingly support her?"

Elias' reaction was delayed having been taken by surprise. His words were a mixture of embarrassment and confusion.

"Well, um... How should I say this, she's pretty cute."

Oh my. Sopho placed his hand to his mouth as he smiled. He was unexpectedly surprised. Though Sopho thought Elias was helping her for political motives, he could guess a more base reason from Elias' expression.

He was suddenly interested in the woman named Tigre who could make Elias wear such an expression. Sopho leaned forward slightly and repeated Elias' words.

"Cute, is it? Can you give me an example?"

Sophocles continued to pursue the issue. Elias moved about in a ticklish manner.

"Right... There are a number of things, but if I were to mention one, maybe it would be her sleeping face."

"My. You have a relationship where you can see her sleeping face?"

"Do, don't say anything stupid. She's the one that always sleeps."

While Sopho was clearly becoming more interested, Elias denied the accusation, his face red from ear to ear.

"On a more serious note, while she has a number of faults, she is a woman who thinks of her people and is willing to risk her life for them. Tigari is also very talented with the bow. I've never seen anything like it before."

"My, Earl Vorn is from Brune, right?"

Sopho's doubt was a natural reaction. It was well known to the neighboring countries that the Kingdom of Brune held the bow in contempt.

"That girl, she dropped a (Vyfal) Wyvern in the sky with a single arrow."

Elias' crimson eyes shined brightly like a child. She was grinning and laughing in satisfaction.

"Oh my, how amazing."

Sopho smiled. Given his expression, he thought of it as a joke. Elias simply shrugged his shoulders, desperately trying to keep from laughing in the back of his mind.

His disbelief was amusing rather than mortifying.

After praising and belittling Tigari for a while, Elias concluded the conversation.

"You should meet her and speak to her in person for the rest. You can see Lunie then as well, right?"

Lunie was the name of the infant Dragon kept in the Imperial Palace of LeitMeritz.

Though it was difficult to imagine from his gentle personality, Sopho was an avid lover of Dragons. It was because he wanted to see Lunie that he frequently traveled to LeitMeritz, which is how the two became intimate.

Incidentally, contrary to Sopho's feelings, Lunie would always try to fly away and escape the moment it noticed his presence.

"If you tell me in advance, I'll introduce you to Tigari. I'd like to show you her archery by all means."

"I look forward to it."

Sopho nodded with joy dying his beryl eyes.

Elias did not mention Tigari's black bow to the King. Though he trusted Sopho, he judged it better not to speak.

After finishing their juice, the two left the garden.

"Sopho, I want to ask you something."

While walking in an unpopulated hallway, Elias spoke with a serious expression.

"Do you want me to investigate into the Vanadar and powerful nobles with relations with Duke Thenardier and Duchess Ganelon?"

Sopho's smile did not break in the slightest as he responded, his finger to his mouth in thought.

"As expected of you, but there's something else I'd like you to check. See if there's anyone with connections to Duke Thenardier who can train Dragons."

"Dragon...?"

Sopho looked at him with wide eyes. Elias nodded strongly.

"There was an (Suro) Earth Dragon and (Vyfal) Wyvern."

Despite what people might think from the elegant dress and gentle atmosphere Sopho wore, he excelled in collecting information.

Though the Vanadar are superior in military arts, Elias evaluated his abilities above even those.

"Since it is a request from you, then I shall look into it. I am quite anxious hearing this as well."

"Thanks a lot. I'll let you hug Lunie as much as you want next time. I'll make sure he doesn't run away."

Elias mercilessly decided the young Dragon's fate. Sopho smiled joyfully in response.

"Oh my, I will enjoy that."

"By the way... Just to be on the safe side, do either you or Sasha have a connection with Thenardier or Ganelon?"

"I suppose you should be happy, but neither Sasha nor I have such a connection. We will declare neutrality toward your actions."

The gate of the Royal Palace had finally come into view. After finishing her business, Elias said goodbye to Sopho before leaving the Palace. He looked up to the sky, squinting as the sunlight shined down.

- I wonder how Tigari is.

He had obtained permission from the King. For now, he would quickly join Tigari.

"Now then, let's do this."

End of Chapter 2


Chapter 3
Territoire

The (Zirnitra) Black Dragon Flag waved in the cool breeze at the end of autumn.

Beside the Black Dragon Flag were two other banners. One was the Vorn family crest with a white crescent-moon and meteor on a blue background, and Elias' flag which had a silver sword on a black background.

Beneath the refreshing, blue, cloudless sky, one hundred cavalry from Zhcted advanced down the road in an orderly fashion toward Territoire.

A man and woman – Lang and Tigari – stood at the head.

"Please accurately state the name of His Majesty in our country."

"Um, Victa... no, it's different. Victor Arthur."

Tigari found herself at a loss for words, and she could speak no further properly. Lang, walking alongside her on his horse, let out a sigh and lightly hit Tigari's head with a thin branch.

"Victor Arthur Volk Estes Tur Zhcted. Victor is His Majesty's name, Arthur is a name passed down from his grandfather, Volk is a name granted to him by his father who hoped he would grow up to be strong like a wolf, Estes is his family name, and Tur is granted to royalty. This is the third time, now. Please remember it."

Tigari looked like a scolded child who had just been struck.

They had left Celesta a few days ago, and they had continued at this rate.

Dozens of sheets of paper were bundled together like a textbook in Lang's hand as he rode on horseback in his armor. Without a single gap in the words, the history of Zhcted, its mythology, and many of its traditional events were written.

"... Do I really need to remember this?"

"Lady Tigarivurmud. Do you understand your position?"

Tigari inadvertently grumbled. Lang started gazing at him coldly, nearly freezing her backbone.

"You are Eliasora-sama's captive. In the future, you will have frequent opportunities to travel throughout the country, so you must understand the situation in our land."

It was an unpleasant future, though she could not say that in front of his.

"You must learn basic knowledge so you do not embarrass Eliasora-sama. Please learn this as quickly as possible."

- I know what you want to say... But I haven't even had a break since we left Celesta. We've been doing this even on the march.

"Your response?"

"I'll do my best, Teacher."

There was no energy in Tigari's voice. Lang folded up the papers and put it away. At the very least, their session had come to an end.

"By the way, what festival has been held since ancient times to celebrate the coming of spring and the end of winter?"

It was an unexpected question; Tigari stared at Lang involuntarily. Fortunately, her head managed to move somehow, and, after a moment, the answer came to her.

"I believe... It was the (Maslenitsa) Solar Festival."

"Correct."

Lang's stern expression melted like ice and gave way to a soft smile.

"Since our winter is longer than Brune's, you may be able to see it."

Lang changed the mood with his invitation as he turned around.

"Take a break. I will check on the soldiers."

Watching Lang's back as he departed, Tigari dropped her shoulders and let out a sigh.

"Cheers for the hard work, Lady Tigarivurmud."

Lang was replaced by a Knight. She was a young woman in her 20s and had refined features. Her carefully shaved head without a single hair left a strong impression.

The Knight's name was Rudette, and she was the most skilled archer amongst Elias' soldiers. She was also on best terms with Tigari.

"You should have come up earlier. I could have used your help."

"If I had done such a thing, Mr. Langlisha would have glared at me. Besides, it was quite pleasing watching a teacher and his student from a distance."

"It was like torture for the party concerned, though."

Tigari shook her head to remove her feelings of fatigue and changed the subject.

"How are Titto and Bernice?"

Moving behind the Zhcted Army were the soldiers of Celesta. The two who served Tigari, Titto and Bernice, were amongst them.

Though Tigari opposed Titto's decision to follow her, his willful demand was unexpectedly supported by Lang.

"It is best to have an attendant close by your side."

"... Am I really that bad?"

"Do you remember the evaluation Eliasora-sama and I gave you when we left LeitMeritz?"

Lang spoke coldly, completely silencing Tigari.

In Tigari's heart, she was also reluctant to leave Titto alone in her mansion for two reasons.

After she pushed the Thenardier Army back, Tigari scolded Titto.

"I'm glad for your feelings of wanting to wait for me, Titto, but it's useless if you don't escape at those times."

Titto apologized with tears in his hazel eyes. It had made Tigari anxious.

Her thoughts of not wanting Titto to feel lonely again eventually led to accepting Titto accompanying them.

"There are no particular problems. Titto is quite popular amongst the soldiers. Even Mr. Langlisha looks at him gently."

"Lang?"

Rudette's words were unexpected.

"Perhaps it is because they are both male. Mr. Langlisha gets along well with Titto."

Tigari was relieved to hear he was liked amongst the soldiers; if that were the case, he should be fine.

"Bernice is a good talker, and she is rather strong when playing chess or card games."

When they made camp to rest, Bernice joined in with the soldiers as they played games to entertain themselves.

"Bernice was the one who taught me card games. Ah, it was always like she saw through me."

"Yes, I can understand your feelings."

Rudette shrugged her shoulders. Tigari held back her laughter as she imagined the scene.

"It sounds fun. Maybe I should join."

"- Who should join what?"

Rudette quickly shut her mouth as Lang's cold voice came from behind.

"No, um..."

After watching Rudette stumble over her words, Tigari responded with a weak tone.

"I thought it might be fun to join everyone, something like that..."

"Very well."

Lang nodded frankly.

"However, only if you can answer the ten questions I will say now. If you wish to join the troops, you must give your responses today."

Tigari let out a sigh of despair and leaned unceremoniously against her horse. The horse neighed and shook in dissatisfaction.

In the end, Tigari was not freed from Lang's grasp until they reached Territoire.

The town of Belfort was in the center of Territoire.

When they could see the town, Tigari sent Bernice as a messenger to obtain approval for the Zhcted Army to enter the town.

"Bernice, have you been to this town before?"

"Yes. Urz-sama... when your father was a youth, I came here several times with him as an attendant."

Bernice continued to speak as she looked at the gently undulating meadows beyond the town.

"Territoire is unlike our land; it has long fields that extend all the way to the mountains-"

She pointed to the Vosyes Mountains far to the south.

"The people by the Vosyes Mountains plant grape fields, and the cattle in these areas graze in the pastures. Many here also keep pigeons as pets."

Before long, they received consent to enter the town. Tigari entered with Lang and Bernice – Tigari had asked Bernice to attend as someone who was knowledgeable with the area.

Lang was covered in his armor as well as a helmet. When Tigari asked why, his response was curt.

"Because a male Knight is conspicuous."

Belfort was far larger than Celesta, and the roads were paved with stone.

However, the houses themselves were not so different. They were made with wood, stone, and brick, and the walls were plastered. There were some buildings with thatched roofs and noticeable stones sticking out.

Though a familiar sight to Bernice and Tigari, it was unusual for Lang. He looked about restlessly in curiosity.

"Lady Tigarivurmud, what are those round stones on the roof for?"

The stone was about the size of an adult head, and there were almost always three or four on a building.

At that time, something moved in Tigari's heart. It was the mischievous nature of a poor student who was always scolded and wanted to tease their stern teacher.

"The roof will fall off from the wind without those holding it down."

"Is that so?"

Lang nodded in admiration without showing any sign of doubt. While Tigari felt guilty from his obedient reaction, Bernice laughed heartily.

"It was simply a joke; please ignore the Young Lady. During the daytime, it is heated by the sun, and it can be used in a variety of ways at night."

"... Is that so?"

Lang glanced coldly toward Tigari. His quiet voice full of anger sharply pierced her.

"Though I thought I may have been a little harsh, it seems you still have room to relax. Perhaps I shall increase your workload starting tomorrow."

"... Um, can I even give an excuse?"

"Please sit upright. You are the General of an army. Your voice must remain dignified; you cannot be so timid as to admit your crimes so carelessly."

Tigari's entreaty was coldly rejected as Lang criticized her without mercy. Though Bernice somehow understood the situation, she could only smile wryly as she watched.

They had reached the residence of Viscount Augre. It was also built with wood, stones, and brick, but it was nearly double the size of Tigari's mansion. There was a dovecote found in the entrance of the household.

"Dovecote?"

Lang looked doubtful as Tigari gave an honest explanation.

"It is where pigeons are kept and fed. Given its size, it likely houses around one hundred. Do they not have these in Zhcted?"

"Though there are hen houses, I have never heard of a dovecote. We do not eat pigeons..."

After leaving public notice and entering the mansion, Lang took off his helmet and held it beneath his arm.

Since Bernice visited as a messenger beforehand, they were quickly taken to the Viscount's room after leaving their arms aside.

It was a simple room, unexpected from the Lady's private chamber.

The furniture was simple, and a crystal vase near the window drew a mysterious pattern of light on the floor.

The old, no-nonsense woman smiled as she stood up. She was the the woman who governed Territoire, Hilary Augre.

"Oh, you came, Tigari. Excuse me, that was impolite, Earl Vorn."

"It has been a long time, Viscount Augre."

Tigari bowed as she looked at the elder woman with care.

"Are you unwell? If so, we can come another day-"

Tigari thought her condition may have been poor and she was sleeping, but the old Viscount simply smiled and shook her head.

"What, I'm just a bit injured; there's no need to exaggerate it. I'm sure seeing you after you've come so far will do my body some good."

She was not putting on a show of strength, which gave Tigari a sense of relief.

"It's so nostalgic. You came to my house when you were still a small child. Do you remember?"

"Eh? Um..."

A cold sweat flowed down Tigari's back. She wondered if she had been careless in some manner; she had no memory of it at all. If she visited, it would have been when Tigari was still 8 or 9.

The old woman smiled in amusement seeing Tigari's inability to respond. Her thin body shook, little by little.

"I believe you found the talk of old women boring and went to explore the house. The maids found you snoring and drooling in bed."

It was not just Lang, who stood next to her, but Bernice as well, who turned around and looked at Tigari in amazement. Tigari bowed deeply in silence.

"To think you would ignore an important guest of your father, and now you have grown up and allied yourself with the Zhcted Army. So this is the Vanadar of Zhcted."

"I apologize for the delayed introduction. He is Langlisha, the trusted aide of the Vanadar, Eliasora Viltaria."

Lang silently bowed toward the old Viscount. For her own impoliteness, Augre also returned a greeting.

She looked serious as she returned her gaze to Tigari. It was a complete change from a moment ago.

"Now then... I roughly understand your circumstances from Marcia's letter, but I would appreciate it if you could tell me the entire story."

After Augre heard the entire story from Tigari, her face held a difficult expression.

"To abandon my stance of neutrality and fight with Duke Thenardier..."

"Please, I ask for your help."

"I must ask to be sure, but you are not hiding anything?"

She stared at Tigari with an overwhelming strength. Though Tigari was almost overwhelmed, she focused her body and responded calmly.

"If I have done anything wrong, I would not be able to move the soldiers in a fight against Duke Thenardier."

"Hm, certainly..."

Augre looked down deep in thought. Tigari silently waited for her answer.

"-Earl Vorn."

Before long, Augre called Tigari's name in a low voice.

"I will tell you honestly that I must refuse your request. Even if you are acting justly, you are powerless before Duke Thenardier. Though it is honorable to fight for a just cause, I cannot possibly bring my soldiers, my people, to war without a chance of victory."

Bernice frowned upon hearing her words, but Tigari raised her hand to restrain her. The old Viscount had more to say.

"However, it is not just Earl Marcia but the Zhcted Army that has become your ally. It seems you have the means to fight Duchess Ganelon and Duke Thenardier."

"Then you will lend us your strength?"

"I would like to say yes... but there is little strength in these old bones. I will help in your fight if you give me your aid."

"What do you mean?"

Lang narrowed his eyes slightly as he sat next to Tigari, though neither Tigari nor Augre noticed due to how minimal the change was.

Augre turned her gaze to the window and looked at the flowing meadows and Vosyes Mountains in the distance.

"There is a band of thieves in the Vosyes Mountains. Those bastards attack the nearby village, burn the land, kill the people, kidnap the women, and steal their money and livestock. I cannot simply leave it. I want you to lead your army to Vosyes... I want you to get rid of them."

She spoke bitterly and clenched her hand, unable to suppress her anger.

"Could it be due to your injury?"

"I said it a while ago. It is not a serious injury."

Augre looked back and smiled after seeing Tigari's anxious face.

"It should heal in a few days, but I cannot return to battle. Though he's making more trouble of it than she should, it is true I cannot leave my bed."

Augre turned her entire body to Tigari.

"Earl Vorn. I ask this of you. Will you hold off this band of thieves in my place?"

She spoke solemnly and bowed as much as she could.

"I have asked various aristocrats in the vicinity to lend their aid to my daughter, but it is still unsatisfactory. Even if I find more people, there is no telling what will happen when the villages are attacked. I wish to force them back to suppress the damage they cause, no matter what."

"Do you know how many there are?"

Lang asked from the side with an expression and voice which lacked any intonation.

"Approximately two hundred."

Tigari was stunned for a moment; it was twice the size of the Zhcted Army she was currently leading.

"Originally, they were a small group from Zhcted with fewer than forty, but pirates from Asvarre and a mercenary named Donalbein joined them, so they quickly gained power. Though we had three hundred men, we were defeated."

Tigari was impressed by the strength of the unknown leader of thieves. She had two hundred men and the ability to lead them.

Though the Zhcted soldiers with her were amongst the elite, it would be difficult for them to fight an adversary with double their number.

- This can't be left alone, especially if they are making the Vosyes Mountains their stronghold.

Vosyes Mountains expanded to the north and south and acted as a border between Alsace and LeitMeritz.

If the bandits headed north, they would reach the area between the two territories, jeopardizing the peace there.

Furthermore, they would likely interfere with Tigari's movements along the mountains.

Tigari began to open her mouth, but did not speak before glancing at Lang. With a short confirmation, she turned back to Augre.

"I understand. Leave this to us."

By the time Tigari and the others left Viscount Augre's household, the sun had sunk quite a bit.

The sky to the west was dyed crimson. It looked as if the sun were desperately pushing back the darkness as the curtain of night spread.

In contrast, the eastern sky was dark, and the moon was faintly visible.

When they left the town, the Zhcted Army had completed preparing its camp. They made a simple double fence in the surroundings, which gave it an inconsistent feeling.

"You won't be staying in the town?"

Rudette looked at her curiously. She had thought Tigari would borrow a room in the Viscount's household.

"There are a few reasons, but I thought I'd stay here with everyone."

At that time, Titto ran up with short steps. He wore his butler uniform with the vest removed. It seems he moved about the Zhcted camp dressed in this manner.

"Tigari-sama, welcome back. Did everything turn out well?"

"We only talked. Aren't you tired, Titto?"

Tigari smiled gently and patted Titto's head.

"You do not need to worry. I was helping prepare the meals until a moment ago."

"Meals during a march are important, right? Soup can be made quite delicious with just a slight change in the salt..."

Titto stretched his chest out proudly as he heard Rudette's words.

Tigari was happy for Titto. She was uneasy about bringing him, but he held out in his own way. Titto had firmly built his place amongst them.

"Just make sure not to overwork yourself. Bernice, please help Titto."

Titto and Bernice left while Tigari entered a tent with Rudette and Lang. After hanging the lantern, the three sat in a circle.

After Rudette heard what happened at the mansion, Tigari placed a piece of paper on the ground. She began to summarize the information on the bandits given to her by Viscount Augre.

"Augre led three hundred soldiers to defeat the thieves and was defeated."

The Viscount was involved in an unexpectedly difficult battle.

Even though they were superior in number, they were simply field workers who were given armor and weaponry. Their morale was high since they saw the cruel attacks and burned villages, but it was not enough to compensate for their lack of training.

Furthermore, the geographical advantage belonged to the bandits. While attackers would have to invade up the mountains, they could descend with stones and bow and arrow. They had many advantages.

The Viscount blockaded the mountain path in an attempt to confine them in the mountain.

However, there was a miscalculation. When the Viscount's army appeared on foot, the bandits pounced on them in the mountains.

They discarded their geographical advantage and attacked the army in the fields.

The band of thieves and Augre's Army clashed at the base of the mountain.

They used hatchets, swords, axes, and leather armor reinforced with iron and fur to fight.

Augre's Army began to push them back, and, eventually, the bandits abandoned the field and retreated. The Augre Army used their momentum to chase after those who were fleeing.

They left the field and rushed to the mountain path.

By the time they entered the mountain road, the sky had darkened.

Stones were thrown, arrows were shot, and earth and sand were poured over the soldiers like a hailstorm. Logs were dropped as well, crushing many men.

They realized they had fallen into a trap, but it was too late. Their corpses quickly piled up on the mountain path.

Viscount Augre pulled her soldiers away to retreat to the fields.

By the time the army pulled out of the mountains, dozens of people had been sacrificed. The Augre Army lost many men in the mountains.

By the time they reached Belfort, their army of three hundred had decreased to two hundred. The Viscount was also injured, so her daughter, Gertrude, was forced to run about in her stead.

"This group of two hundred... seems quite a difficult enemy."

Rudette had a serious countenance upon hearing the entire story. She hit her bald head with her beefy hands which did not suit the woman's naturally gentle mannerisms.

"Lady Tigarivurmud, do you have any plans?"

"Regrettably, no."

"How about this. Lady Tigarivurmud, you enter the mountain with fifty arrows. When they descend, you kill fifty men and retreat... You can repeat this four times."

"An interesting proposal. Do you really think I can find and kill that many people?"

Tigari half-glared at Rudette for saying outrageous things.

"That will be our last resort."

The two turned in surprise hearing Lang's curt response. Lang looked at the paper; it was not a fight that needed too much planning. He did not want to spend a lot of time on it.

"We should finish this quickly. I would rather not take too much time."

The next morning, Titto and Bernice were left in the town, and Tigari and Lang left Belfort followed by one hundred from the Zhcted Army.

It would take just under a day on horseback to reach the Vosyes Mountains from Belfort.

"By the way, there is something I would like you to see, Lady Tigarivurmud."

Lang advanced his horse next to hers and took out a few sheets of paper which were carefully folded from his saddle.

Tigari took them and frowned after opening one of them.

"... What is this?"

"After we left Alsace, I have calculated the war expenditures until today. This is your burden."

Tigari peeled her eyes away. Her entire body froze in shock as she tried to look to the sky, resulting in her falling back. Lang used his shield to support Tigari.

The paper had the expenses for tool repair, costs incurred during the march, such as fuel, food, firewood, horse feed, and medicine, and the salary for one hundred men.

The hand holding the paper trembled as Tigari thought about the amount of money. She felt like her body was bound with invisible chains. It was suffocating even thinking about it.

"... Even when I commanded one hundred soldiers, it was never this expensive. Why so much?"

"The cost of cavalry is quite significant compared to the cost of infantry."

Lang continued speaking as if it were natural.

"The people you typically lead are villagers who cultivate the fields. You are now leading soldiers who are trained to fight. Their capability is high, and they are fighting in the harvesting season, so it is natural their salary reflects that."

Tigari grasped her dull red hair and held the paper strong enough that it might tear. Though it would be possible to pay with her savings in Alsace, she wanted to avoid it.

"I would recommend you not pay with Alsace's savings."

She was seen through.

Tigari looked at Lang curiously, hearing him not recommend her to take that course of action.

"I saw all the data. Lady Tigarivurmud, was there something you were trying to do? Perhaps pasturing."

"... It was a big success."

Tigari sighed deeply. She had learned many things from his in LeitMeritz. Lang was quite adept in such aspects.

"It was my father's idea. She had saved little by little before I succeeded Alsace. Using those savings, she wanted to purchase horses."

The horse had many uses. Using them, Alsace could become more prosperous.

"It is a good idea. I believe you should continue to work toward that goal."

Tigari was glad to hear Lang's frank approval, but she had a difficult face as well.

"But I have no other ways of paying."

Tigari looked over her shoulder toward the Zhcted soldiers following them.

"Yes, which is why we shall consider that from now on."

Though Lang's face lacked any affability, Tigari felt he was enjoying it in some manner; however, that may have been nothing but an illusion.

Lang took the paper from Tigari and carefully removed the wrinkles from it.

"By the way – this much is necessary, even with one hundred cavalry. The two hundred who continue to steal and plunder take far more than that."

Tigari finally understood why Lang brought up the war expenditures.

"The bandits will attack a nearby village soon."

"The time it takes for them to attack and pillage will take a few days."

"Any more and it will be impossible to afford the costs of recovery."

With an impatient, but focused, heart, Tigari strongly grasped her bridle.

Early the next morning, with only a half koku march to reach the Vosyes Mountains, Lang stopped the soldiers. Lang split the one hundred cavalry into two, making eighty dismount from their horses.

Twenty soldiers were left to defend the horses while the remaining eighty continued the march. There were only a dozen people riding horses, including Tigari and Lang.

"- Lady Tigarivurmud."

Lang moved next to Tigari and called her name.

"This time, you are in charge of the battle. Please focus on how our troops move, how the enemy moves, and the flow of battle. I wish for you to gain the capability to command them as quickly as possible."

Tigari brooded over his words. It was true she had little experience in war.

Due to their long association with herself and her father Urz, Bernice and her men had a strong trust in her.

However, that was not true for the Zhcted soldiers. They were here at Elias and Lang's behest, and it would not be good if she took command over troops who did not particularly have faith in her.

She should learn, even if only a little.

"I understand. I will try."

When the sun had risen more, at approximately mid-morning, the eighty Zhcted soldiers reached the foot of the Vosyes Mountains.

As if waiting for them, there were shadows stealing from the fields near the mountain path. They had likely been watching since they saw the Zhcted Army. This was most likely since they responded so quickly.

They stood shoulder to shoulder. Some wore leather armor, others were shirtless and held large battle axes. Some had helmets without any other armor. There was no particular order or set weaponry.

The thieves attacked them and gave whoops of joy as they hunted their prey. The Zhcted Army also let loose a roar, despite the ambush.

Tigari remained outside the field of battle so as to keep a wide range of vision.

Though she clutched the heirloom black bow and had an arrow grasped, ready to nock, Tigari simply stared at the battlefield.

The Zhcted soldiers prevented the bandits' onslaught with their shields while others fought back with their shields upright, and pierced through the gap between them with their spears. Soldiers in the rear shot their arrows all at once. Dozens of arrows rained down mercilessly on the thieves.

- The battlefield is a flat grassland, and the enemy... does not have two hundred people. It looks to be about half that.

As Tigari silently watched the soldiers and thieves collide on the field, something caught her eye.

- They shouldn't have the money to have that kind of weaponry.

There were ten people who were dressed in solid iron armor and wore helmets and swords.

- It seems like there are units of ten, so they could be the Commanders, but...

Tigari tilted her head. Her thoughts broke off there.

In a certain area, the formation began to crumble. The shields were split by battle axes, and the soldiers were thrown off balance.

Tigari's actions were fast. As she quickly nocked her arrow, she advanced through the wave of soldiers on her horse. With fewer than one hundred Zhcted soldiers and thieves clashing, Tigari was able to aim immediately.

The bowstring trembled as she fired the arrow. It pierced through the throat of the enemy, as if the man had inhaled it, and he collapsed to the ground in the confusion of the fight.

Tigari continuously shot arrows, felling three more bandits. The momentum the bandits had built was lost in an instant.

In contrast, the Zhcted soldiers became more vigorous. The formation that collapsed was reorganized, and the thieves were pushed back.

Next to Tigari, who stroked her chest in relief, Lang gave commands indifferently.

"- Retreat."

The Zhcted soldiers huddled together with their shields up and placed their swords and spears in the gap. While restraining the bandits' movements, they slowly pulled away. The resulting space created in their retreat was taken up by the thieves as they brandished their weaponry.

The bandits were energetic from having defeated Viscount Augre's army the other day; however, fighting the Zhcted Army which valued defense, they were forced to attack.

Lang ordered the men to retreat even further. The Zhcted Army pulled back one belsta (about one kilometer) before rejoining their formations.

In the confusion, the thieves had spread out thinly.

That is when the change occurred.

Suddenly, cavalry appeared from the south of the meadow, wrapping behind the bandits. They were surprised by the attack and retreated in a panic when they noticed they had pulled too far away from the mountains.

Lang did not miss the change in flow and ordered a counterattack in his typical indifferent tone. The Zhcted soldiers discarded their shields and wielded their spears, fiercely attacking the bandits.

Many retreated, staggering backwards and pushing others aside. Others stood their ground and fought back, only to be cut down from all sides.

Furthermore, the cavalry which had appeared a moment ago had cut their line of retreat to the mountains.

With their path of retreat cut off, the thieves who could not escape or surrender were killed.

The number of bandits killed in the field were approximately sixty. Twenty had surrendered, and the rest fled to the mountains.

On the other hand, two men from the Zhcted Army had been killed. Ten others were injured.

After burying the dead, those who surrendered were handed over to Viscount Augre. The Zhcted Army issued ten horsemen to keep guard as they made their way to Belfort. The soldiers with severe injuries were also sent back.

Those remaining fortified their position.

They built a wide and deep trench and made a sturdy fence made of thick branches following the same fundamental structure of the camp they created near Belfort.

Once their camp was complete, the sun had set, and the soldiers took to their meals.

A large pot was filled with water. Potatoes were chopped, and the water was salted. Turnips and onions were added for sweetness, and the entire pot was stirred.

"It smells good. What is it?"

Rudette asked Tigari, who was busy stirring the pot.

"We call it fish soup. It's eaten everywhere in our country and keeps our body warm."

"That's right. Because Tigari-san is a person from Brune, she should take care. There might be a big fight over the food."

A soldier next to Rudette warmed her hands by the fire as she looked up at Tigari.

"Fight?"

Rudette quickly responded as Tigari cocked her head.

"The seasonings are different for every home. In some places, garlic is added. In others, alcohol is used."

"This could cause a dispute, so you might want to add some garlic in it for everyone."

The soldiers laughed alongside Tigari.

Aside from the fish soup, supper included bread and honey. Despite the deaths of their comrades, the soldiers' morale was high, and many sung merrily.

Tigari separated from Rudette and headed to her tent. Tigari returned to her tent and sat around a pan of soup with Lang. She was anxious at first.

"Before we left for the foot of the mountain, did you have the men get off the horses so the cavalry could make a detour?"

With the horses doubling the number of humans, the cavalry would have a sharp increase in mobility. It made surprise attacks possible, depending on the distance, and with their small number, it would be difficult to see from the mountain.

"There was another aim."

"... You decreased the number of troops to invite the enemy?"

Hearing Tigari's words, Lang blinked a few times and smiled.

"I knew if we retreated, they would return to the mountains. Still, they still had high morale from their victory the other day."

Lang had set a trap. By reducing the number of attackers, the enemy would be more likely to fall for it.

He had carefully watched their movements and used their path of retreat against them. Lang explained it as if it were nothing; Tigari leaked a breath of admiration.

- It's no wonder Elias trusts his so deeply.

"I will say this only once."

While Tigari was completely impressed with his abilities, Lang was amazed by something else.

"This victory is thanks to you, Lady Tigarivurmud. You used your arrows to immediately destroy the enemy's morale when our troops collapsed. If you had been slower, we may have lost the battle."

Though it was a small battle, Tigari's skill with the bow and accurate judgment surprised Lang again.

"I'm happy you would say that."

Though Tigari was obediently pleased, her reaction was somewhat dissatisfying for Lang.

- She should take pride and boast of her skills a little more.

However, Lang hesitated to say that. Instead, he spoke of something else.

"What do you think the enemy will do in the future?"

Tigari tilted her head hearing his question.

"... That's right. They will withdraw from the mountain for a time and keep watch on us. They may use footpaths to attack nearby villages in the meantime."

"There are other mountain paths?"

"It might seem a little sudden, but there will be many animal trails which are rarely used. I have lived in the mountains for a long time and can think of several ways to climb them. If they have two hundred men, they are very likely to have discovered many such roads."

Because she had experience walking through the forests and mountains of her hometown, Tigari's words were persuasive.

"Right. They still have more than one hundred men remaining. They cannot survive only on mountain herbs and wild game. They will attack us first, since we will hinder their ability to plunder the villages."

Because the soup had finally finished cooking, Tigari placed its contents onto a platter and passed it to Lang before preparing her own.

Lang thanked Tigari and began to eat with a mystified expression.

"There's meat."

"That reminds me, Titto said he managed to procure some pigeon meat."

As she casually replied, something flashed through Tigari's mind. Tigari looked vacantly at the light leaking from the lamp in the tent, deep in thought.

"Are you waiting for it to cool?"

Being called out by Lang, Tigari returned with a start. She panicked and pointed about with her spoon as she told her idea to Lang.

Lang stopped eating and looked at her quizzically as he listened to her speak.

"That is quite a dangerous hand. Besides, who could possibly..."

"I will do it."

Tigari answered frankly without any sign of eagerness. Lang simply glared at her with a hint of anger in him eyes.

"... I believe I just said it would be dangerous."

"Which is why I will do it."

Tigari's dark eyes looked straight into Lang's blue irises.

"This is my fight. If I can't even risk my own life, how could I possibly ask you to help me?"

"Please do not mistake courage and recklessness. You have shown your courage many times, already. Now is not the time for you to risk your life."

Lang was unwilling to withdraw. He leaned forward, as if to overwhelm Tigari with his entire body.

"Eliasora-sama has gone to the King's Capital for you. If something were to happen to you, all would be for nothing!"

"I'll make sure nothing happens."

Tigari made a declaration.

"At the very least, until I am assured of Alsace's peace, I will never fall."

She added her words with a smile.

"You said you wanted to end this battle quickly. I do as well."

Lang was unable to respond.

This was an unanticipated fight. Lang had not yet thought of a solution that could end the theft and destruction of the fields, especially with fewer than one hundred cavalry. The battle would be long if they continued as they were, and it was necessary to maintain the strength of the army.

Finally, Lang gave up. He consented, so long as Tigari gave priority to her safety and ran away at any sign of danger.

After the Zhcted Army and the bandits made their moves, three days had finally passed.


The Vosyes Mountains to the north lay between Alsace and LeitMeritz. Amongst the steep mountains was a single mountain path. There was not much difference to the south.

There was only a single road which could be called a mountain pass, and it wound around the surrounding hills in a snakelike manner, so few used it.

At the top of the path was a small, dilapidated castle fort.

Though it was something built by either Brune or Zhcted, neither claimed rights to it, so it became inhabited by the bandits who attacked the fields.

Because it was impossible to house two hundred people in it, there were many crude houses made of stone in the surroundings. The leader, Donalbein, and the girls they had kidnapped monopolized the fort, along with a few people who were accepted.

Donalbein had become 33 this year. Beneath his short, black hair was a thick face and rugged eyes. Before arriving here, he had passed through numerous battlefields as a mercenary. He was a soldier who had slayed many Generals.

Such a man was now cornered.

He had lost many men when one hundred soldiers came to avenge their previous loss. Three days had since passed.

The army which fought beneath the (Zirnitra) Black Dragon Flag had settled in a base at the foot of the mountain.

- Like I thought, the food situation here is poor.

There was not much game to hunt in the area. Without the Zhcted Army moving away, Donalbein and his men would starve.

Donalbein had sent scouts out many times and repeatedly provoked them.

However, the enemy did not follow it and remained on standby.

- If possible, I wanted to wait a few more days.

If possible, he wanted to drag them into the mountains so he could fight in an advantageous situation. As a mercenary, he always fought when he could secure a more certain position.

- However, we will starve if we don't fight. Right now, we're like rats that have jumped into a cat's mouth. My subordinates are screaming for revenge, too.

He decided to move his men, whose morale was at its peak.

When she received a report that the soldiers in Belfort returned, Tigari stroked her chest in relief on reflex.

- We made it in time somehow.

Until now, they had not fought with the band of thieves; however, the enemy was slowly reaching its limit. They would attack tonight or tomorrow.

"Did you bring what I asked for?"

"This should be the required amount."

"I see. Thanks for the hard work."

Tigari showed her appreciation to the soldier who answered her. The soldier had a smile thick with fatigue. After promising her a reward, she told the man to rest.

She had moved back and forth to Belfort over two days. The soldiers had completely met his expectations.

After checking on the situation, Tigari entered the General's tent to take a nap. After establishing their position, she had worked in shifts with Lang, trying to get as much rest as possible.

As she began to lie down, she kicked something lightly with her toes.

It was a small bag with something light inside. Tigari bent to her knees and picked it up.

"A bear?"

It was a bear doll that fit in the palm of her hand. It was something she knew on sight.

"I believe this was something in our dining room back home... But that was something Titto made..."

"Lady Tigarivurmud, are you still awake-"

At that time, Lang entered the tent while speaking. He had removed his armor. His sword was at his waist, and he wore a blue, short-sleeved shirt and long boots and gloves.

Tigari looked back immediately. Lang, confused by her actions, noticed what was in Tigari's hand immediately.

For the first time, Tigari saw Lang's face full of emotion.

His eyes were wide open, and his face was flushed red. He ran up and reached for her hand at a speed Tigari was unable to react to.

Tigari tried to avoid him out of surprise, but she fell to the ground from Lang's momentum and hit the back of her head.

While she let out a groan as the pain assaulted her head, Tigari tried to push the weight that had fallen onto her body. Something pointy touched the palm of her hands.

She momentarily forgot her pain. The weight on top of her was the weight of a human.

A sweet fragrance mixed faintly with the smell of sweat tickled Tigari's nose. Her body then told her she was in close contact with a human body, and she became aware of his waist and thighs on top of her. Though his body was lean, tight, and devoid of excess flesh, it was still mysteriously soft.

Something was pulled away from her grasp and Lang parted from her body with a speed reminiscent of a beast.

Tigari let out all the air collected in her lungs. She felt relief and self-loathing as she recalled her embarrassment for reacting to his body.

"... You saw it."

Tightly grasping the doll in his right hand, Lang stared at Tigari and breathed roughly. His face, which rarely showed emotion, was filled with anger and embarrassment.

Tigari understood he was referring to the bear doll in his hands. She took two deep breaths. It seems he did not realize she had touched his crotch.

She turned her body around and gazed at Lang.

The two silently watched each other for a while; Tigari eventually recovered from the previous impact and opened her mouth.

"Um... It's fine, isn't it? It's fine that you like bears. I think it's adorable."

It was not a lie. She simply said what came to her mind first.

Lang said nothing and coldly stared at Tigari with his blue eyes. While wary of the fierce animal before her, Tigari continued to speak.

"Did Titto make that for you?"

"... Yes. Before we left Celesta."

Their conversation was interrupted at that time.

While looking at the lamp, Tigari was lost in thought. Due to the impact to her head, her drowsiness had been blown away.

Tigari fixed her posture and bowed to Lang.

"I apologize. Though I did not intend to, it did not change the fact that I looked into your belongings."

Lang, unusually, sat in place with a poor expression.

"I cannot simply blame you in such a one sided manner. I should have tightened the string more firmly. You have seen something embarrassing; I am sorry."

He spoke faster than usual. Though there was a stiffness in his tone and attitude, the atmosphere around him had softened. Tigari smiled in relief.

She did not want him to dislike her, and she wanted to avoid anything awkward before an important battle.

"Um..."

Lang hesitantly looked upward at her.

"About this, please do not tell anyone."

She did not think it was anything to be embarrassed about. At that time, Tigari thought of something as she saw her bow in the edge of her view.

- Everyone has something like that.

When she was taken by her father to the King's Capital, she was laughed at for only being able to use the bow. Though it was an amusing story now, she was worried at the time and considered throwing away her bow.

She understood the pain and fear of having what she loved laughed at.

"I understand. I promise not to tell anyone, but-"

Her words ended at once as Tigari thought about better words to say. Eventually she continued to speak.

"Regarding what you like, I think you should find someone to talk to about it. You're free to talk to me about it, but I think you can talk to Titto about it, as well. Of course, I don't mind if you talk to anyone else, either."

Lang's face showed his confusion as he gazed steadily at Tigari. His calm, blue eyes showed signs of fear.

"Lady Tigarivurmud... Um, do you think it's strange?"

"I think it's surprising."

Tigari shrugged her shoulders.

"But plenty of people have some unexpected hobbies. For example, Lady Marcia was absorbed in divination long ago."

"Divination?"

"It seems she liked telling fortunes with flowers, horoscopes, cards, and burning bread and other such things. My father told me this many times, since he found it funny."

A faint smile floated to Lang's mouth as he heard her speak. He could not imagine such a thing from the woman he met and spoke to in Alsace.

"It seems she told only my father of her hobby. Since Father's death, Lady Marcia has spoken of it only once. Though there are memories I'm sure she would like to forget, she would not be the same without them, so it's not such a bad thing."

Lang looked down and earnestly listened as he gave thought to Tigari's words. When she finished speaking, he quietly stood up.

"Thank you very much."

With his typical expressionless face regained, he bowed and turned away. After walking a few steps, he turned around.

"A person to talk to... For instance, it would be fine to speak to you, Lady Tigarivurmud?"

Tigari replied to the sudden question with some embarrassment.

"That's fine... but it's not like I know much about stuffed animals, right?"

"But if I talk to you, no one else will know that I like them, right?"

Lang smiled softly as he spoke, which surprised Tigari. As if reading the tension in her mind, Lang continued to speak without changing his expression or tone.

"Also, I will not ask any questions about your touching my body this time."

He noticed.

He left the tent without saying any more while Tigari stood speechless. After he disappeared, she let out a sigh and looked at her right hand.

- It was fucking big...

Her body began reacting again. Tigari hit her head with her right hand several times to admonish herself. Afterward, she finally went to sleep.


When the sun had set, Donalbein burned many bonfires near the castle fort. In the region wrapped in the darkness of the night, the flames could be seen from a distance.

- They look naïve. I should make it look like a do-or-die situation.

The enemy at the foot of the mountain might not be deceived. Even so, Donalbein would use every trick of the trade to raise every possibility of survival. He had survived until now by doing this.

When midnight arrived, Donalbein ordered his subordinates to leave the base without touching the fires. He was not sure if it would lead to a fire in the forests.

Under the moonless night sky, the band of thieves left the mountain path and walked for a half koku until they reached a river. It was a narrow river, and the water flowed rapidly. It was a winding river which went to the base of the mountains.

They quickly assembled long, slender rafts from logs they prepared beforehand and crossed the river. They moved around behind the Zhcted Army for a night attack.

- There were signs of them getting reinforcements and more food in these past three days.

Donalbein went down on foot to check the number of people and their weaponry. He found no problems.

There were many bonfires wavering about the Zhcted Army's camp. Donalbein divided his men into two. Sixty people, including himself, were equipped with armor and swords. He left a subordinate to command the rest.

"I'll attack from behind. You take the flank."

They got into position and let out a cry as they attacked the Zhcted Army, all at once. They demolished the fence and got past the trenches before moving on.

However, their onslaught ended immediately.

Not a single soldier remained in the Zhcted Army encampment. There were only sacks filled with soil with branches bound to them, giving the appearance of soldiers holding spears.

- What...?

His suspicion became anxiety. Donalbein stared at the bonfire, wondering where the tough soldiers had gone to. He found the answer immediately.

A cry was heard from the depths of the darkness. At the same time, dozens of arrows rained down on them.

- They have our position!

Donalbein quaked in anger as he moved between the shadows. They had understood his movements perfectly and took him by surprise.

The Zhcted Army foresaw a nighttime attack and lurked a small distance away.

After the storm of arrows, dazzling swords approached them.

"Calm down!"

The battlefield was wrapped in chaos. Donalbein shouted and pulled out his sword; those close to him recovered from their panic.

The Zhcted soldiers appeared from the darkness and cut his men down in a single blow. Donalbein kicked the nearby torch; it had alerted the enemy of his position.

- All we can do is escape to the mountain.

Donalbein noticed the enemy was not near the Vosyes Mountains before his men were completely enclosed.

"The mountain path! Look at the lights along the mountain! Retreat to the lights!"

It was a simple instruction in this chaos.

Donalbein crossed swords with several more Zhcted soldiers as he and his men escaped in the confusion.

He could still fight if he could reorganize.

The narrow mountain path would reduce the advantage of numbers, and he could meet the enemy from a higher vantage point. The Zhcted soldiers would be sure to follow.

The fires spread as the tents began to burn, and a smoke began to float above them. Donalbein pushed on, roaring and scolding his men.

They managed to escape; they could see the mountain path.

In that moment, a frightful cry was heard, and wings flapped about them.

In the shadow of the mountain, against the darkness of the night sky, innumerable birds covered the view of Donalbein and his men.

They could not understand what happened with either their eyes or their ears. Many stood petrified, others cowered and let loose queer sounds. Even Donalbein looked on with wide eyes.

However, the people behind him did not stop. The two groups collided, and screams were heard in the air. The confusion only accelerated.

Even with the mountain path before their eyes, their movements were completely sealed.

"Let's use the pigeons."

Three days ago, Tigari made the proposal to Lang.

They had procured two to three hundred pigeons from Belfort and tied their necks together so they could not fly away. Ten soldiers then lurked along the mountain path.

When the thieves approached, they would release the strings, freeing the pigeons. Though they would fly away in fright immediately due to the sounds of the battlefield, they cried out for good measure.

With only ten soldiers, they were able to force the enemy to stop.

While hundreds of pigeons flying up all at once would quickly spread out, it was a narrow path on a moonless night. Though only for a moment, the pigeons flew away like a storm.

Tigari saw the effect before her.

While the thieves were petrified, the Zhcted soldiers charged forward with sword and spear, stricking them easily, as if they were simply mud dolls. One bandit after another was either killed or ran away.

The screams were lost in the darkness of the night. Bodies were piled upon each other, and the cold ground was covered in blood. It was too one-sided to be called combat.

Amongst them, there was one shadow which pushed the Zhcted soldiers away. It was Donalbein.

Donalbein protected his face with both hands while running to the left and right. The soldiers followed after him, shooting arrow after arrow. The bandit leader did not flinch in the slightest and continued moving his legs.

Tigari quietly nocked an arrow and drew her bow. The bowstring trembled shortly after.

The arrow pierced through the gap in her fingers, between her eyes, and penetrated through the back of her head.

The soldiers raised a voice of admiration seeing this feat in the darkness.

Those who knew of Donalbein's death gave up immediately. They threw away their arms and surrendered on bended knees.

The bandits were completely swept away.

The Zhcted Army returned to Belfort two days after annihilating the bandits. It had taken time to return the kidnapped women and money to the villages.

The thieves who had surrendered followed behind them in neat rows.

They were defeated and scattered, and their leader had been lost. They no longer possessed the energy or violence they had during the night raid. They were but empty husks, obediently following directions.

Behind them, there were many carts piled with treasure they had stolen and the armor they had used.

The residents of the town watched with bated breath as they saw the Zhcted Army march through the towns.

The streets soon became crowded.

The presence of the bandits hiding in the Vosyes Mountains was a source of anxiety. The defeat of Viscount Augre's army further strengthened their unease.

The Zhcted Army, under the (Zirnitra) Black Dragon Flag returned in triumph. The residents welcomed them with roaring applause.

Of the two at the front, Tigari smiled with a mixture of tension as she waved to the citizens. Lang hid his face within his helmet and advanced in silence.

"You won't wave, Lang? You did take care of the bandits..."

When Tigari asked while responding to the cheers, Lang sighed within his helmet.

"I would rather not have my face seen here, and there are many who deserve recognition. Also-"

Lang continued with a softer tone.

"You have performed a distinguished service. If not for your plan, the fight would only have become prolonged. You should be more proud of yourself."

When they reached the mansion, Tigari delivered the bandits to Augre. They were put in a prison with the punishment of labor and were promised release after enough service.

Rather than the Viscount's room, they were in a large hall.

There was a table in the center of the room which seated ten and a large fireplace in the wall. The Viscount wore dark silk clothing and greeted Tigari.

When Tigari and the others sat down, a maid entered and poured cold wine in cups of silver.

Before the toast, Augre bowed deeply toward two people.

"Earl Vorn. Langlisha. As governor of Territoire, I wish to sincerely express my gratitude. They grew to power due to my negligence. I apologize for the trouble I have caused you."

"Above all else, the peace of your people has been protected."

Tigari bowed her head in assent with a smile as her elder bowed again in gratitude.

"As expected of the Zhcted Army. You managed to overcome the bandits who had double the number as well as the geographical advantage. Really, Earl Vorn, you must have good fortune to obtain such reliable allies."

"... The victory is Lady Tigarivurmud's alone. She bravely led the troops. That is all there was to it."

Lang's words contained small thorns. Tigari looked away involuntarily. Augre, taking notice of his mood, smiled bitterly and waved her hands.

"I see. It seems Earl Vorn is trusted by Zhcted."

Lang realized his subconscious irritation hearing the old Viscount's words.

"I apologize for speaking out of hand."

While immediately apologizing, Lang was puzzled in the back of his mind.

Augre's words were in no way strange. Though a bit exaggerated, the problem of the bandits was not one she could solve, no matter how she thought about it. Lang's confusion ended in a moment as he recalled why he was angry.

- It is because she seemed to be ignoring Lady Tigarivurmud.

Tigari had never fully relied on the Zhcted Army, and she was willing to put her life at risk if need be. Lang was fully aware of that.

- I see... If I think of how things will be for Eliasora-sama in the future, it would be no good if Lady Tigarivurmud is simply seen as a decoration.

That is why he said his words. Lang convinced himself.

Augre looked at Lang, as if she had seen something interesting, as he thought to himself with his typical deadpan expression. She then turned around to Tigari.

"Earl Vorn. If you are satisfied with my old bones, then I will gladly lend you my strength. The soldiers of Territoire will fight with you, and I will do what I can to persuade the surrounding aristocrats to ally themselves with you. Though there are not many people, I should be able to acquire one thousand men for you."

Tigari's face brightened and she bowed deeply in silence. Though she could say no words in her joy, her gratitude was firmly felt by Augre. The old Viscount shook with laughter.

"There is no need for that. This much is natural for taking care of the bandits. Besides, I have sworn fealty to the King. I cannot stand by as people suffer under Thenardier and Ganelon's rule. As soon as I have completed my preparations, my daughter and I will rally beneath your flag."

Tigari bowed once again toward Augre whose smile was full of the will to fight. She had finally obtained an ally other than Marcia's troops and the Zhcted Army.

After politely showing her gratitude, Tigari and the others resigned from the Viscount's room.

Under the (Zirnitra) Black Dragon Flag, the Zhcted Army marched along the road back to Alsace. Tigari rode at the front while cheerfully humming.

"Lady Tigarivurmud."

Lang advanced next to her and abruptly handed a paper to her.

"Though it is fine to be happy, please do not forget this."

"I understand. This is about the war expenditures, right?"

Having her good mood disturbed, Tigari felt a little annoyed. She skimmed through the papers and stopped after seeing a certain notation.

"... Three hundred pigeons?"

"They were returned to the wild. It is necessary we make amends."

"I suppose there is no discount for its effectiveness?"

"When you fight with thousands or tens of thousands of troops, such things are simply a trap. If I were to give you a discount, it would be a failure on my part as the person in charge of war expenditures."

Lang spoke indifferently. Tigari drooped her shoulders and returned the papers. Lang received them and took a pen from the saddle.

"However... You slayed the leader, Donalbein. I will not be able to do this in the future, so just this once, our army will bear this cost. I will tell Eliasora-sama."

While saying this, Lang placed a line through the notation with his pen. Tigari looked at him in surprise.

"Is that really okay?"

"It will only be this time. I think it is good enough that you understand the importance of the price of war and how quickly it builds up."

"You've saved me."

He spoke sincerely.

"- Now then, it is time for your lectures."

Lecture. Tigari had a small headache hearing the word. They were now teacher and pupil.

"... I'm going to teach you about the bears I have in Zhcted."

His voice contained an out-of-character shyness.

Tigari blinked and then looked intently at Lang.

His face had turned red. She smiled wryly and matched Lang's gaze before nodding.

"Please do so, Teacher."

End of Chapter 3


Chapter 4
(Michelia) Snow Prince of the Frozen Wave

Tigari felt nostalgic when she saw the town of Celesta.

"I wonder if Elias has returned."

While recalling his bright smile, Tigari spoke to Lang who rode his horse alongside her.

"He is likely to have returned, since we took more time than expected."

At that time, Titto and Bernice, who were behind them, hastened their pace and approached Tigari.

"Tigari-sama, may I go ahead to make preparations?"

"I'm sure you're tired from the long journey. Don't worry about it today."

Though Titto's eyes were as full of life as always, they were slightly puffy and sunken. His fatigue had accumulated as well.

"Titto. It's good that you have offered, but you don't need to do anything unreasonable."

Titto frowned in embarrassment as Tigari put in her own good word.

"But what will we do about supper tonight, Tigari-sama?"

"I'll finish off what I have."

"... You're going to eat only fruits and vegetables again?"

Tigari's response was blocked as he gazed at her with his hazel eyes. He hit the bull's-eye.

"Titto, it's natural to do these things when you're hunting in the mountains and forests-"

"We are at a village."

Titto's words were quick and blunt. Bernice smiled wryly to help Tigari.

"Titto, you must return to the temple tonight for prayer. I'll worry about you if you're out too late."

Titto was weak to his shrine duties. His momentum quickly disappeared as he looked down in thought. Tigari stroked his chestnut-hair as if soothing a child.

"It will be a while before we can relax. Tomorrow will be busy, so I'll need your help. Make sure to get some rest today."

"... I understand. I apologize for being unreasonable, Tigari-sama."

Titto and Bernice moved back. Tigari let out a breath of relief.

"Titto is a good boy."

Lang expressed his thoughts.

"But he can be troublesome from time to time."

Tigari remembered when Celesta was attacked. Titto, in order to welcome her home, had not left the house.

"Though I'm glad he thinks of me, it's a bit troublesome that he would put herself in such danger."

"I suppose it is persuasive coming from someone who tried to run away for the sake of her people."

Tigari frowned upon hearing Lang's cold words.

"I have a duty as their Lady..."

"For him, he has his pride as a butler and her affection for you. Even if it is dangerous, even if it is foolish to others, it is still his obligation."

"How difficult."

Tigari looked up at the sky and let out a sigh.

Contrary to Tigari's expectations, Elias still had not returned.

However, a courier was sent from Elias and awaited her at the mansion. His message was short.

[I'll meet you at Kikimora Mansion.]

"Kikimora Mansion?"

Lang answered Tigari's question.

"It is one of Eliasora-sama's villas in the Vosyes Mountains."

"A villa."

Tigari was surprised to hear it, but it would not be unfounded if he were to have ten or twenty villas, given Elias' position.

The aristocrats of Brune typically had two or more villas in addition to their own mansions within their territory. Several years ago, Marcia invited Tigari and her father over to her own.

The next morning, Tigari and Lang left Celesta on horseback under the glow of the early morning sky.

Though Titto likely wanted to go with them, he may have thought it a nuisance on his part, so he saw the two off with a smile.

Rudette remained on standby with the one hundred soldiers from Zhcted in Celesta.

There was a purpose in this. If aristocrats close to Duke Thenardier noticed the Zhcted Army, they would not move immediately.

Though the Knights were still worrisome, for now, he could only worry about Marcia who had headed toward the Royal Capital.

- Zoe called me a traitor. If you consider the current situation in which the Zhcted Army is remaining in Alsace, others will think so as well, however, if we give him an explanation, His Majesty should understand.

Tigari could do nothing but believe.

After crossing the Vosyes Mountains and entering LeitMeritz, Lang took the lead. They took a road separate from the highway and moved through a prairie.

"Autumn has already ended."

The cold wind blew the leaves off the trees. Lang muttered to himself as he returned a hempen bag to the saddle of his horse.

The meadow soon changed to a wilderness, and then into an area full of gravel and pebbles, in which weeds could hardly grow. A large black building stood at the top of a hill.

"This is Kikimora Mansion."

"Incidentally, is Kikimora the name of something?"

"It is said to be a fairy from ancient times that grants households safety and protection. Unless an elaborate title is given intentionally, most villas are crowned with this name."

As they climbed up the small incline, the shape of the villa became clear to see.

From top to bottom, the walls were plastered and dyed black. The roof was red, and it was about the size of Tigari's mansion in Celesta.

When they arrived at the front of the house, Lang pulled his horse to the stable to the side. Tigari quietly followed after him.

In the stable, there was already a horse tethered. The horse glanced at Tigari with large, round eyes. As its interest quickly disappeared, it turned away and snorted.

"This is Eliasora-sama's horse."

Lang let out a breath of relief and looked back to Tigari.

"Lady Tigarivurmud, please go ahead. If you call Eliasora-sama's name, I believe he will come to you."

"It's fine. We won't start the conversation until you're there anyway, so we should take care of this quickly."

After unloading her luggage, she pulled off the harness and saddle. She wiped its body and gave the horse salt to lick and water to drink. It was work the two were accustomed to, so it ended quickly.

Tigari carried Lang's bag over her shoulder; it was quite a considerable weight. After Tigari left the stable, Lang quickly followed after her in confusion.

"Since it belongs to me, I should take it."

"I have my things as well, and we'll be there in a moment, anyway."

Tigari laughed and told him not to worry. Lang sighed with complicated emotions showing in his blue eyes.

Standing before the front door, Lang lightly knocked. Footsteps were soon heard and the door opened. Elias appeared wearing his blue colored clothes and the Silver Flash Arifal at his waist.

"Oh, you came."

His dazzling smile reminiscent of the sun beyond a cloudless sky invited Tigari and Lang. The light of a lamp could be seen high on the wall, illuminating the three people.

"Looks pretty heavy."

Elias voiced his admiration having seen the bag over Tigari's shoulder.

"Though I would not call it a souvenir, it is something I want you to see by all means."

"It will be my pleasure."

Elias' bright red pupils shined curiously as he listened to Lang's words. At that time, the air shook buoyantly, and the wind passed through Tigari and Lang's hair.

"It seems this fellow wants to say hello to you as well."

Elias lightly and fondly tapped the longsword at his waist. It was as if the Silver Flash was laughing.

"Hmm?"

His silver-white hair which extended to his waist shook. Elias looked at Tigari's face in interest.

"Is there something on my face?"

"No, it's the opposite."

Elias smiled in satisfaction and extended his slender arm to Tigari's head. He brought her face close enough that they could feel each others' breath.

Feeling his hard chest press against her own, Tigari's face faintly turned crimson. Elias continued speaking without noticing her reaction.

"When I left Alsace, it felt like you were possessed. I don't know what happened, but it's not there now."

Tigari understood that her expression was poor at the time. When Elias left, she had been obsessed with her fear of Duke Thenardier.

Tigari looked back at Elias and returned a bold smile.

"Everything's fine because it's me."

"Right. Also, doesn't it seem like you and Lang have become quite friendly?"

This time, Elias' smile had a bit of an edge to it.

"You two were alone from Alsace to here. Did something happen?"

"Unfortunately, it was nothing like you imagine."

While shrugging her shoulders, Tigari gently removed Elias' arms. After they parted, she regretted the loss of the good feeling she had, but she also felt it unpleasant and different from her true intent. She still had a lump in her throat from the nostalgia of their reunion, but after some time, it seemed to reflect poorly on her behavior.

"You two seem quite intimate now."

Though Elias' words showed his suspicion, he did not pursue the subject any further.

Elias then walked over to Lanf and hugged him closely. Lang also smiled naturally as he patted Elias's back.

"You've worked hard."

"We have not done much. I am glad you are well, Eliasora-sama."

"That's natural. I just went to the King's Capital, had a chat, and came here. Let's relax and have a chat."

Elias cheerfully responded as he guided the two through the hallway to the living room.

"This is quite clean. Do you use it often?"

Tigari gave her impression as she passed through the corridor. Elias turned around and looked at her.

"About a half koku on horseback, there is a small town called Rodnick. The residents there clean this mansion regularly. Tonight, we'll be staying here."

The living room was spacious and had a large fireplace along the wall.

The carpet from Muozinel had geometric patterns sewn into it, giving it a warm appearance. On top of a walnut table in the center, there was a bottle of wine and a fruit basket.

Suddenly, Tigari recalled a story Elias had once told her. Everyone drew together, huddling over the fireplace, singing songs, and eating warm potatoes. Like that, people could overcome the severe winter snowfall.

"First, a toast to celebrate our reunion."

The three sat around the table. Elias opened the wine and poured it into three prepared glasses. They brought their glasses together and gave toasts in both the language of Brune and Zhcted.

"Why did you choose this place as a meeting spot?"

Tigari asked as she admired the scenery outside the window. There was a garden, and the field spread away from the mansion, giving it an idyllic atmosphere.

"Honestly, I wasn't sure what was going on anywhere. If there was an issue in Alsace, I could head there, and if there were a problem in LeitMeritz, I could travel there immediately as well. This place is roughly the midpoint between the two."

After answering with a bright smile, Elias looked at the two seriously.

"I'll say this now, I managed to obtain the King's permission for the time being, but there are two troublesome issues. When I obtain any territory, I must offer it to the Kingdom."

"How does that differ from now?"

Tigari tilted her head, unable to understand Elias' words.

"Alsace will be under the direct control of Zhcted Kingdom, not Eliasora-sama. Alsace will be under Her Majesty's control."

Lang answered her question. Tigari simply put her hand to her chin in thought.

"... Does the King of Zhcted not want Elias's territory to increase?"

"It is not just territory, even our popularity, authority, and influence... The old man is afraid whenever any of these things increase. He is a King that fears the Vanadar. Well, it's happened with all the previous Kings."

Lang continued to speak for Elias, who had let out a large sigh.

"Lady Tigarivurmud. Assume you are the Queen of a country... There are seven people with power and authority second only to yourself. Would you want them to obtain more land to control? Furthermore, these seven are popular and excellent in domestic affairs."

"I would leave the work to them and take a nap or go hunt."

Lang hit Tigari without hesitation.

"I am telling a very serious story, so please answer seriously."

Elias was lying on the table suppressing his laughter.

"... Well, aren't they reliable?"

"Would you not fear the seven would turn their blade against you? They wield a strength greater than one thousand soldiers. No matter what, it would be impossible for you to win."

"I would think it best to have an excellent subordinate, even if they were stronger than me, for a long time."

Hearing Tigari's ridiculous answer, Elias looked up happily.

"Honestly, even I would say you were a bit too carefree. I said this before, but the King is not like that. He is a timid man who fears us, even when we have small military services. He gets angry and attempts to confiscate any extra territory we receive."

"- So that's why he's seizing Alsace."

Tigari groaned. The future of Alsace had become more uncertain.

Though Tigari did not know how Elias governed his lands in detail, she had strolled about the town beneath the castle with his.

The town was lively, the peace was not bad, and the people seemed happy. She could feel at ease leaving her land to him or Lang.

"That is a separate issue for now, though."

Elias began laughing in encouragement after seeing Tigari's serious expression.

"The fight has just begun, and the situation can change drastically. Just make sure you keep that in mind."

Tigari pulled herself together and bowed in thanks.

"The second issue is a bit troublesome... The King said, [First and foremost, act in Zhcted's national interests and refrain from taking rash actions]."

"Isn't that normal?"

Tigari did not understand why it was troublesome.

"It's a bit difficult to explain since you're honest to a fault."

Elias laughed as he teased Tigari.

"I do not believe this could be avoidable, since Lady Tigarivurmud has not become as perverse as Eliasora-sama."

Lang talked down to his Lord with a straight face; Elias' mouth sharpened in response.

"... What kind of wind is blowing now? You're protecting Tigari."

"I am simply admonishing my superior."

After silencing Elias with his prompt response, Lang turned to Tigari.

"The problem comes from His Majesty's words. When thinking of national interests, any noble, for instance, those with connections to Duke Thenardier who might benefit should the Duke reign victorious, could rush into action."

"... So it's left open to interpretation?"

Tigari began to make the connection.

"He said that specifically because it was open to interpretation."

Elias spoke ill words of the King of his country in a bad mood.

"However, aristocrats have little significance. Below the King, there are the seven Vanadar. The aristocrats are even further below, followed by the normal citizens."

"So you mean there will be problems with the other Vanadis?"

Tigari's words held tension. Elias nodded earnestly.

"There are Vanadar with connections to Thenardier and Ganelon. Usually fights between Vanadis are forbidden, but they will be tolerated under these circumstances."

"Can you move in a situation like that?"

It was different from the time he helped her in Alsace. Elias had attracted attention and could no longer vacate his territory recklessly.

"Though not all Vanadar are allies, they are not necessarily enemies, either. For now, we need watch only one. If possible, I would like to get rid of him beforehand. I would rather not worry about having my movements cut off in the future."

"This sounds serious."

Tigari smiled as she shrugged her shoulders.

It was a serious situation, and it would be difficult to take care of the matter. Elias called Tigari to the mansion and told her the story to confirm her determination.

Tigari decided she would remain calm and respond to the situation. If she showed fear at this point in time, she had no qualification to be standing by his side.

The Vanadar of silver-white hair gently manipulated the wind and smiled joyfully.

"I've told you my story. It's about time you tell me yours."

Tigari nodded and told him she obtained Marcia Rodant and Viscount Augre's cooperation, as well as the subjugation of the bandits.

"I believe in Lady Marcia. She is my father's best friend, and when I was held captive, she ran about trying to help me. I also believe Viscount Augre is trustworthy."

"Lang, what do you think?"

Elias turned his bright red pupils to his expressionless adjutant.

"I believe we can trust Earl Rodant. As for Viscount Augre, so long as there is no discord between him and Lady Tigarivurmud, there will be no problems. By the way, there is something I wish for you to see, Eliasora-sama."

When Lang said this, the sound of a bell could be heard from the door. Someone was standing there.

"... Nobody should know I'm here."

Elias frowned suspiciously.

"I will look."

When Lang stood quietly and left his seat, Tigari restarted the conversation. She placed the contents of the hempen bag on the floor.

It was metallic armor. Though there were various scratches, it was still like new. It would be possible to sell it if carefully polished.

"The band of thieves in the Vosyes Mountains had a lot of this, though their helmets and gauntlets were similar to those used in Alsace."

Elias stood and walked around the table while observing the armor.

"- These are made in Olmutz."

"Lang thought the possibility of that is high. So it really is from there?"

Elias snorted and pointed to an inconspicuous place inside the armor, along the flank. There was a strange pattern stamped there.

"This is an imitation to the God of War, Triglav. No mistakes about it."

Elias released the armor and smiled sarcastically while folding his arms.

"It's some expensive stuff from Olmutz."

The surface of the armor reflected the light shining through the window.

"Though I hate to say it, she's in our country as well. The manufacturing method is unique, and the armor is hard and light. Even if it was worn out and full of scratches, those thieves would be penniless."

"Where is Olmutz in Zhcted?"

Tigari had only heard its name from Lang. She knew nothing else about it.

"It is the Dukedom to the south of LeitMeritz."

Tigari was surprised to hear his ill-tempered voice as Elias responded. He immediately drank the wine in her glass and hit the table vigorously.

Though Tigari thought the conversation would be unsavory, she knew it was unavoidable.

"The territory is governed by a Vanadar?"

"Her name is Ludmiller Lourie... He's completely different from me."

Elias distorted his handsome face with his hatred.

"He's a noisy person who always talks about character and courtesy, and he always carries tea and jam at his waist. That boy's like a young potato."

Though Tigari could not possibly understand his words, she knew he was insulting the other person.

"- I cannot possibly stay silent, now. Who exactly is a potato!"

Suddenly, the door was flung open and a boy's angry voice echoed throughout the room. Tigari looked back and saw two boys standing there.

One was Lang, who appeared tired. The other was a strange, diminutive boy.

He was breathtaking and was a hunk different from Elias.

His blue hair was trimmed around his shoulder, and he wore a large, white ribbon. His blue silk clothes wrapped about his masculine body, giving him a lovely appearance.

However, rather than his handsomeness, it was his strength that appeared most. His powerful gaze remained firm in her memory.

Tigari's gaze moved from his charming eyes to the short spear in his hand.

The tip looked to be made of the highest purity of ice; it created an illusion of coldness.

"- Lang."

Elias' voice was tinged with a violent rage that reverberated within Tigari's ear.

"Why did you permit this man to step inside this building?"

"He is a Vanadar. I cannot possibly turn him away."

Like a lifeless doll, Lang responded indifferently.

"... Vanadar?"

The boy with blue hair shifted his gaze to Tigari as she squeezed words out of her mouth. His smile was the height of arrogance, and he stretched his chest forward and spoke haughtily.

"I am one of the proud Vanadar of Zhcted, the Master of the (Hajya no Zankaku) [Spear of Evil Death], Ludmiller Lourie."

"Leave."

Elias' voice was cold and held no forgiveness. The atmosphere of the peaceful living room had become dangerous in an instant. The two Vanadar clearly aimed their hostility toward each other, like fierce animals confronting their natural enemy.

Ludmiller glared at Elias, his blue eyes full of contempt.

"You are being quite rude to your guest, Eliasora."

Elias lifted the corner of his eye as he responded with undisguised hostility.

"I will take the appropriate attitude toward a guest I invite. At the very least, you could bring a gift, though I doubt I would be of mind to accept you as a visitor."

"You should apologize for insulting all humans and potatoes."

"You should prostrate before me for having eavesdropped on our conversation."

Tigari stood quietly from her seat and carefully stepped away so as not to attract attention. She walked to the doorway near Lang.

"Eavesdropping? Your voice is foolishly loud."

"If you think that was loud, then you live in quite a small world. How pitiful."

"Even if I live in a small world, I have many things, unlike you."

"Rather than having many things, you should hurry up and gain some height and more muscles."

"I am 16. There is still room enough to grow. How about you, Eliasora? Are you working hard to maintain the minimum dignity and courtesy? You should do your best from now until you grow old and die."

The sound of grinding teeth could be heard, though it was unclear from which Vanadar the sound originated.

Though Tigari looked to ask Lang for help, Lang appeared to be asking her the same thing.

"... Are these two always like this?"

"It has been this way since they first met. They exchanged many insults and pointed their (Viralt) [Dragonic Tool] at one another. You would not think they belong to the same country."

"I see. So how do we stop this?"

"Though I have an idea of who can stop it, he is too far away. We can only leave these two until they finish."

Lang's expression clearly showed resignation and an unusual fatigue.

Tigari stirred her dull red hair and steeled her resolve.

- I'm not sure how easy it will be to get along with this boy.

However, she still had something to ask Ludmiller.

Tigari pulled out a chair close to him, purposely making a loud noise.

Seizing the moment, while their verbal war was interrupted, Tigari stood between Ludmiller and Elias.

"I do not believe I have introduced myself yet. My name is Tigarivurmud Vorn."

Though she smiled awkwardly, she presented her hand to Ludmiller.

Ludmiller glanced at her hand and then looked up, as if appraising Tigari.

"Tigari. This man is not a guest. There's no need to receive him."

Elias spoke defiantly behind her. Tigari was troubled as her hand still remained before her.

"- I suppose so. I am certainly not a guest."

He muttered in a voice so small, even Tigari could not hear it. Ludmiller turned away and spoke over his shoulder.

"Please come with me, Earl Tigarivurmud Vorn."

Though Tigari and Lang were surprised by his words, Elias was the one to react most strongly. He stood up angrily from his chair and pushed it over.

"Wha... You, what do you want!?"

Ludmiller responded calmly after seeing Elias' unexpectedly red face.

"I have come here to meet this woman. Though I was going to Alsace, I remembered your villa and dropped by."

"What business do you have with me?"

The caution in Tigari's voice was muffled as she asked.

"It is nothing spectacular. I simply wish to speak a little. Is that a problem?"

"Hold it."

It was not Tigari but Elias who responded. He stood next to Tigari and stomped on the floor before glaring at Ludmiller.

"This girl's mine. I decide what she does."

"Oh? Were you not employed by Earl Vorn?"

Elias found himself at a loss for words. The edge of his mouth had cramped up as he desperately thought of what to say. Tigari decided to help him.

"Our relationship is closer to that of equals. I am showing my respect as his employer."

Ludmiller accepted the answer for the time being. He then turned toward Elias and smiled aggressively.

"Though you said you wished to talk, is it not possible to do so here?"

"As Eliasora has said, I am not a guest. Also, I would like to speak without others hearing our conversation, if possible."

Tigari looked at Elias. After seeing Tigari and Ludmiller with a sour face, Elias sighed.

"Let's move then. It's a bit before schedule, but let's go to Rodnick."

They left the household and rode their horses down a slope. Beneath the empty sky was a vast, flat meadow.

Elias and Lang led the way with Tigari and Ludmiller following afterward. It was done this way because Elias and Ludmiller clearly did not want to be near each other.

It was Lang's job to calm Elias down, leaving Tigari next to the blue-haired Vanadar.

"What is it you wish to ask of me?"

Having been asked bluntly, Ludmiller was lost in thought for a moment before turning to Tigari.

"I wish to know the reason why you are fighting Duke Thenardier."

Tigari was taken aback. She looked intently at Ludmiller's face involuntarily; she did not know why she was asked.

As they moved forward, Tigari explained how Duke Thenardier's army attacked Alsace. When Tigari pushed them back, Zoe had been killed.

"I think it a natural thing that I protected Alsace, but I don't think Duke Thenardier will withdraw."

"Do you have a chance of winning?"

"That... I don't know."

Tigari was unsure. Even with Elias, Marcia, and Augre by her side, she could not be certain.

"I do not think it is possible for you to win against Duke Thenardier."

The plains were interrupted by the wilderness as they moved away from the residence. Ludmiller continued as he watched Elias' back.

"Duke Thenardier has many allies both inside and outside the country. I am one of them."

"... Will you bring your army into Brune like Elias?"

"If I judge it to be necessary."

However, Ludmiller's white ribbon moved as he shook his head.

"Simply leading an army is not the only form of cooperation. Money, food, armor, information... I can help simply by sending those. Even public statements may influence public opinions. Do you have such allies?"

Tigari could not answer. Though she was not without allies, the difference in numbers was too large.

Ludmiller sighed ostentatiously while Tigari remained silent. He looked up at her with contempt in his eyes.

- Those eyes.

They were the reason Tigari could not get a good impression of the Vanadar with blue hair as he quarreled with Elias.

"Do you look at everyone like that?"

Though Tigari tried to suppress her feelings as much as possible, they still leaked from her voice. Ludmiller's eyes narrowed quickly, tinged with a cold hostility.

"... Though informal, this is the first time a woman has insulted me on our first meeting."

"I have also never met a person who has neglected his self-introduction for such a long time."

Tigari responded with a joke as she feigned ignorance.

She felt as if a sword or spear was pointed to her chest. Tigari looked back at Ludmiller as a cold sweat wet her palm.

After a time, Ludmiller looked downward quietly.

"- I suppose so. It is as you say."

Ludmiller bowed in apology, surprising Tigari.

This boy had shown a coercive attitude since he first appeared in the residence.

He was aggressive and looked and spoke to others in contempt. She would never think he would apologize.

"I will say this. You should not call me so poorly. Call me Lourie-sama."

Ludmiller smiled lightly as if it were a natural thing.

"... Is it good to speak so formally to someone who might become an enemy?"

"You should correct how you speak."

The Vanadar with blue hair made that declaration to Tigari with a strong tone. Tigari felt a strong pressure which made speaking difficult as he stared at her with his pupils of frozen jasper.

"You are an Earl of this country, and I am a Vanader. Under normal circumstances, you would not be permitted to ride your horse next to me."

Tigari could not conceal her embarrassment. She tilted her head and ran her hand through her red hair.

Though she did not think he was angry, after thinking about it, she knew he was correct.

- The Vanadar kneel only to the King, according to that story.

Applying this to Brune Kingdom, the Vanadar would correspond to the powerful aristocrats like Thenardier and Ganelon, and individuals in positions such as Prime Minister, Grand Chamberlain, and Generals.

He was certainly far above a country aristocrat like Tigari.

- I guess I'm too used to Elias.

Elias was special. She needed to remember that.

Tigari, seeing Ludmiller's sincere expression, bowed obediently.

"I apologize; however, would you pardon me if I call you Ludmiller-sama? For someone from Brune, it is much easier to say."

It was true. Ludmiller did not answer Tigari immediately and looked at Elias' back. For an instant, there was a hint of envy and loneliness in his profile.

"... So you call Eliasora, Elias?"

Rather than asking her a question, he was muttering to himself.

"I will allow it since our association will be short. Also, what is it you wished to say about my eyes?"

Tigari spoke informally as she normally did but corrected herself in a panic.

"You look down on others."

It was not an assumption. She could say that with certainty.

Tigari had been the recipient of such eyes on countless occasions. The powerful aristocrats and their children, Zoe included, the women of the court, and the Knights all made light of the bow.

"Can you simply smile and look favorably on poorly made meals or terribly drawn paintings?"

Ludmiller spoke as if he were amused.

"So you think it natural to despise and humiliate people of poor character?"

"... I do. At least, for those of high standing."

Ludmiller looked away as he gave her an answer. The Vanadar with the spear continued to speak.

"Earl Vorn. I have heard of you before. You are a person with little skill with weaponry. Before, you presented your hand to me. It was clearly not of someone who wields the spirit of either the sword or the spear. Though your bow arm may be good, the sword and spear are what is valued. Your skill has no meaning in Brune."

Tigari scratched her head in silence. It is true she lived a life unrelated to fame or military services.

"You have nothing worth mentioning. Dignity, charm, respect, even something odd, I have felt nothing from you. Though Eliasora has become your ally... I cannot understand why. What on earth did you say to him?"

Tigari finally understood. This Vanadar was interested in her.

"I want you to lend me your strength. That is all I said."

Because it was not a lie, Tigari was able to answer naturally. Also, since she had been insulted, she decided to go on the counter-offensive a little.

"Even if there were something else, do you think I would tell someone who might become my enemy? This is even more true for a childish boy who can barely tolerate a small insult and starts an argument in someone else's house."

"You can assume that it is."

"... You are quite skillful with your words."

Ludmiller smiled. It was approximately 10% praise, with the remainder being contempt. He looked up at Tigari with eyes as if he were absolutely superior.

"By the way, I also had a question I wished to ask."

Tigari spoke of the band of thieves they had subjugated in the Vosyes Mountains and mentioned they wore armor from Olmutz.

"According to Elias, you are the one governing Olmutz."

"Do you wish to say that I organized the thieves and sent them?"

He looked at him differently from before. An intense anger emitted from his petite body.

- He's unexpectedly temperamental.

"No, that's not quite right. I thought you might know who sold it, since the armor was so new."

"That is impossible."

Ludmiller answered in a fit of anger, throwing her off.

"Though it takes time and effort, we make a large quantity of them. Both aristocrats and merchants purchase them, as well as people from other countries such as Brune and Muozinel, and even the distant lands like Sachstein and Asvarre. You should not think we are on the same scale as Alsace."

His words were effective, completely silencing Tigari.

Soon afterward, Tigari and the others reached Rodnick.

Rodnick, rather than a town, gave the impression of a large village.

There was nothing around the town but wilderness, and it was far from the main roads.

Though a large river flowed through the center of the town, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. The wall surrounding the village was made of stones piled up to waist height, and the fence simply consisted of logs of wood.

The soil was hardened, and the weeds were removed. Small pebbles lay scattered about the street like any other road. The houses were simple with walls made of wood covered in plaster and thatched roofs.

Though there were a few stalls along the main street, they could easily be counted.

"This place has nothing."

"If you think so, then leave. I will gladly send you off."

Ludmiller muttered his impression in a boring manner as he walked along with his horse. Elias responded, clearly showing his displeasure.

- It certainly does seem like Ludmiller says, but it doesn't feel poor or deserted.

"Is there something in this town?"

Leaving the two Vanadar, Tigari spoke to Lang.

"Why do you think so?"

"I don't understand how the people have enough to eat. There are few fields in the surroundings, and the roads are far away, so they shouldn't have much business."

The housewives amused themselves by gathering at the stalls and chatting, and the smiles of the children running between houses were bright and carefree.

Men amused themselves with chess in the gardens, and, though antiquated, there were many children sitting on their knees, listening to the elderly tell a story.

Though it was not flashy or loud, everyone seemed happy. It was an atmosphere Tigari enjoyed.

"It looks like you did a good job of noticing, Tigari. As expected of my partner who differs from a certain small Vanadar."

Hearing Tigari's words, Elias turned around and laughed joyfully.

"There is a hot spring here. That's why I brought you here."

"Aren't hot springs in the heart of the mountain? Don't you often see deer and monkeys..."

Lang looked at Tigari with amazement and corrected her.

"They are not necessarily limited to the heart of the mountains."

"For this town, they were digging for a well but found a hot spring instead. It's over there."

Elias pointed to a distant building made of stone. Its size was the same as Elias's villa, though it likely extended twice as far. The roof was flat and was particularly conspicuous for the town.

"It's a public bath. There are three areas, each with a hot water pipe to allow the water to flow in. Also..."

At that time, Elias' words were interrupted as he turned his gaze to a nearby stall. The smell drifted to Tigari's nose; it was a stall which sold wheat porridge.

- That's right, we haven't eaten anything since this morning, and it's pretty late.

"Should we get a bite to eat?"

Elias seemed to have trouble making the proposal, so Tigari spoke up for him. Tigari was also hungry.

"Yeah, you're right. Let's do that."

Though Elias nodded and grinned widely like a child, Ludmiller spoke shrilly as he looked at Elias in astonishment.

"There is no need. As a Vanadar, I will not eat at a street stall... Even so, I am not hungry."

As he said that, Ludmiller's stomach gave off a sound. Though it was quiet, neither Tigari, Elias, nor Lang missed it.

Lang looked away as if he had not heard it; however, Elias' shoulders shook as he held in his laughter. He looked down at Ludmiller with an unbearably happy face.

"I see. The great Vanadar Ludmiller-sama could not possibly eat wheat porridge from a stall."

Turning about, Elias briskly walked to the stall and paid several copper coins. He returned calmly with a wooden bowl full of porridge.

Due to the fresh herbs, the porridge had a refreshing scent which stimulated Tigari's nose. Elias purposely stood in front of Ludmiller and slowly brought the porridge to his mouth with his wooden spoon.

- So, So childish...

Tigari's impression was for both Elias and Ludmiller.

While she thought about whether she should separate the two, Ludmiller narrowed his eyes and frowned. His face was pale with anger. Without moving, he tightly grasped his fist and glared at Elias.

"Eliasora-sama."

Though Lang frowned and admonished Elias, Elias did not bother to listen.

She remembered their conversation in the mansion. Though she understood Elias disliked Ludmiller, it seemed a bit over the top.

"... My stomach's a bit empty. May I buy some more?"

When she asked Lang, Elias nodded in confirmation. Tigari walked to the stand and ordered two portions for Lang and herself.

"I'm pretty hungry. Do you mind giving me some more?"

Tigari asked the woman as she passed her a few copper coins.

The porridge included bird meat, nuts, and many sweet herbs, which greatly stimulated the appetite. Due to how it was seasoned, along with her hunger, she thought she would be able to eat a lot.

Tigari took the bowl and walked back to Elias and the others. Fortunately, a fight had not yet occurred. Tigari presented the wooden bowl full of porridge to Ludmiller.

"If you'd like, would you have some? Maybe it's because I'm female, but she gave me a bit too much."

If she did not ask this way, the boy probably would not eat.

Though she had no obligation to do so, Tigari wanted to avoid a dangerous atmosphere. Though she was amazed by Ludmiller's childish obstinacy, she thought it a little pleasing.

"... If that is the case, I will accept."

Ludmiller timidly extended his hand and took the wooden bowl. He blew on the porridge to cool it down.

"... It is not bad."

"That's good."

"I will remember this, Earl Vorn."

There was neither mockery nor ridicule. Ludmiller looked up at Tigari with a small, but innocent smile.

"Next time, I will treat you to tea."

Immediately after he thanked him, she breathed in relief in her mind. Elias suddenly gripped Tigari's collar and dragged her away after handing his porridge to Lang.

"Why did you do that?"

"That's my line."

Elias glared at Tigari sullenly. She gave him an aggressive gaze in return.

"It's one thing if you're friends, but you two clearly aren't. How could I possibly watch that?"

"You belong to me. Even so-"

Elias was raising his voice when he noticed a passing mother and child. He could hear the people talk about the two as if they were blindly having a passionate lovers' quarrel.

Elias' face flushed red, and he looked downward in silence. Though Tigari also heard the people, she recited the name of the Pantheon of Gods in her mind and desperately calmed herself.

"... Hey, Elias."

Because Tigari spoke in a subdued voice, Elias became calm.

"I know there are people you can't like; it's the same for me. But if you keep up with this, you'll only get tired and force yourself into a corner."

Elias looked at Tigari with up-turned eyes.

"... Are you telling me to grow up?"

"Just relax a little bit. It's better to spend your time laughing than being angry. If you keep this up, you'll go bald early."

Elias did not respond to her poor joke. Though he looked at Tigari in frustration, the irritation radiating from his body slowly subsided.

"... I got it."

Before long, Elias said those words with a sigh. He eventually smiled brightly in the manner Tigari was accustomed to seeing.

"You're right. I think it's best to spend my time smiling. I'd rather not bother with Ludmiller, and it's not good to give you and Lang unnecessary anxiety. Still..."

Elias reached out and lightly pinched Tigari's nose, though it was light enough that she did not feel pain. Tigari blinked in confusion, since she did not understand Elias' intent. Elias glared at her with a mixture of embarrassment and emotional dependence; it was a difficult expression.

"... Like I thought, I can't be happy that you gave that woman some porridge. At least let me do this much."


Tigari was surprised as they passed through the entrance of the bathhouse.

It was not simply a bathhouse; there was a tavern and inn inside as well.

The guests amused themselves with cards and chess in the spacious rooms, and there are others who chatted at the bar after leaving the hot water.

There were stalls with skewers of meat, mushrooms, and herbs, and others that sold mineral water in small bottles.

It was overflowing with vigor, heat, and excitement. Tigari looked about in blank surprise; Elias stood proudly as he spoke.

"It seems a Vanadar many generations ago liked the hot springs here. He exempted them from taxes so long as they maintained the bathhouse, though the taxes weren't that high to begin with."

"Is it possible he built the villa there so he could easily reach this town?"

Ludmiller asked Elias, unable to hide his amazement.

"Since the Vanadar built it there, I would think so. Well, that would not be reason enough. He likely used it to inspect the area around the Vosyes Mountains as well."

Lang finished checking in at the hotel. To avoid useless quarrels, he reserved three rooms for Tigari, Elias and Lang, and Ludmiller.

Though the rooms were small and had a small window on the wall and a single bed, the floors were cleaned, and the linens were laundered.

As soon as she settled down, Tigari postponed her meal and her trip to the baths. Tigari first maintained her bow, though, since it was ready to be used at once, she did nothing spectacular. She wiped the dust off with a coarse cloth and rubbed honey into it with her skin.

Afterward, she carefully examined her leather armor and shoes.

Elias knocked on the door as she finished her work.

"You still haven't gone to the baths yet?"

Elias' face was strangely flushed as he asked. He was a little large for the robe he wore. Since it was sleeveless, it was easy to see his ample bosom. His silver-white hair was still wet, and a mysterious smell drifted from his thin arms extending from his clothes.

She was troubled by where to look.

"I'll show you where to go. Though there are three baths, one of them has been reserved for the Vanadar. It's so we can use it at any time."

Tigari looked away while pretending to concentrate on her bow; however, he had completely seen through her.

"You clearly saw me at the Imperial Palace. There's no need to feel shy now."

Elias chuckled as he played with the hem of his robe.

Tigari let out a small breath and collected herself before leaving the room. She headed toward the bathhouse based on Elias' directions, so she arrived rather quickly.

There was a dimly lit dressing room as soon as she opened the door. The baths were further in.

- I wonder if the structure is the same for the other baths.

She took her clothes off and placed them in a rattan basket. Tigari pushed the door open.

She involuntarily let out a groan. The bath was splendidly made.

A thick steam shrouded the bath, which was lined with marble tiles of different colors. Stones paved the area without a single gap between, like a cobblestone street. Along one wall was an image of a pitch-black giant dragon. It seemed to represent a Vanadar.

However, Tigari could hardly see them.

One boy stood in the bath.

It was Ludmiller. He was not wearing a stitch of clothing. His fair skin was faintly dyed red, and the hot water dripped from the tip of his blue hair.

Tigari was unable to look away from his body due to her shock and astonishment.

While Ludmiller also stood, as if he were made of stone, he recovered first and picked up his spear on the floor. Shortening the distance in a moment, he had thrust the spear before Tigari's face.

"Fuck... I didn't think people brought weapons into the bath."

Those were the words that finally left Tigari's mouth. Though she tried to turn her face away from Ludmiller's naked body, his spear moved quickly, preventing her from doing so.

Though she shut her eyes, the scene she saw a moment before was burnt on the back of her eyelids.

"Um, you should cover yourself. Isn't it embarrassing?"

"Is it embarrassing to be seen by a cat or a dog?"

It was a prompt answer. His quiet voice was tinged with anger. Tigari could not object; if she opened her eyes at this time, though, she would see that his eyes trembled with anger, and his spear shook out of embarrassment.

- That's right, Elias had the Silver Flash nearby when he bathed.

The Vanadar always had the (Viralt) Dragonic Tool within grasp.

"... Given how you look, it seems you did not come to humiliate me."

"It was an accident. It was my fault for not checking to see if someone was in here, though."

"Your language."

"I apologize."

Shortly after, the air shook and a hard object struck Tigari's head. She held her head in response to the pain. Because Tigari's eyes were closed, she was defenseless; she fell to the floor in agony.

Ludmiller gave a snort and briskly walked away.

Tigari finally opened her eyes once she heard the door swiftly close behind her. Tears blotted her eyes and she held her head as she stood up. She looked down at her body which was not covered by a cloth.

"Seen by a cat or a dog, is it..."

It was very difficult for Tigari to consider it in that manner.

Incidentally, it later became clear that this encounter was set up by Elias.

It was his little bit of mischief, since it required Tigari to head to the bath immediately.


The next morning, Tigari and the others left Rodnick and headed to the main road. They would reach the road to the Imperial Palace before midday.

The sky was dark, and thick gray clouds covered the sky, heralding the arrival of rain.

As Tigari and the others advanced on their horses, the atmosphere remained quiet.

Ludmiller remained silent as he coldly stared at Tigari, who could do nothing but endure; meanwhile, Elias simply smiled wryly as he watched the two. Though Lang looked at Tigari in sympathy, he could not erase the signs of shock and contempt in his eyes.

Incidentally, the four knew it was a situation planned by Elias.

The wilderness ended as the meadow spread out before them. They followed a small road which would be sure to meet the main highways.

"You-"

When they had entered the woods, Elias spoke to Ludmiller.

"You said you came to see what kind of woman Tigari was. Did you manage to achieve your goal?"

The forest grew thick, and the needles of the cypress trees remained throughout the winter.

The weather was poor as well, making the forest seem even darker. The road was narrow and bumpy, which further fueled any sense of unease.

"- Yes. I understand her quite well."

Ludmiller answered curtly with an unfriendly tone.

"She is a worthless woman who is somewhat good with words. I do not know why you are with such a woman... but I suppose a dog will go with a dog, and a cat will go with a cat. In that way, she suits you quite well."

Ludmiller glanced over his shoulder toward Tigari, as if staring at a piece of dirt. Tigari caught his glance, but refrained from forming a rebuttal. Though it was according to Elias' plan, it was her fault that he had been seen.

"- I see. I got it."

Elias shook his shoulders in laughter. Seeing this, Ludmiller frowned.

"I do not recall saying anything worth laughing at."

"No, you said something funny just now. It seems your eyes aren't good enough if you can't see Tigari's merits."

"I did not think the day would come when I pitied you."

Ludmiller could no longer find any words to say as he shook his head in fatigue. His words were partly sarcastic, with the rest being his true feelings of amazement.

On the other hand, while Elias tried to return to his previous attitude, his smile disappeared and he spoke. His expression became serious as he pulled on the reins. It was difficult to tell whether his instinct or Arifal's warning was faster.

Ludmiller also noticed it, shortly after Elias. Tigari and Lang, behind the two, had also felt it.

To the left and right were trees, and there were no shadows in the vicinity. Though the road was straight and they could look far ahead, they could not find peddlers, travelers, or even a single hunter.

However, there were signs. They had carefully approached like beasts that had found their prey, hiding in the trees under the cover of darkness.

"- We're surrounded."

"Assassins."

Elias muttered to himself leisurely while Lang's face tightened.

While Tigari and Lang could not conceal their tension, Elias and Ludmiller calmly prepared their weapons. Perhaps they were accustomed to it as Vanadar.

"It's a bit late for thieves to be out here. I wonder who they are aiming for."

"It would be either you or me, correct?"

Ludmiller spoke as if it were natural. Elias simply smiled as he shook his head.

"Tigari's a worthwhile target now, as well. If Tigari dies, Duke Thenardier would jump for joy, since I would leave Brune."

"I'd rather you not say that so easily."

Tigari expressed her disgust as she nocked an arrow to her bow. Though she did not want to believe it, she thought it possible for Duke Thenardier.

- What should I do? The enemy can attack while concealing their identity. I may have no choice but to use the horses as a shield.

"Shall we turn back, Eliasora-sama?"

"On this narrow and rough road? They'll definitely come out, however..."

Elias looked forward and then looked back at Tigari.

"Give me an arrow."

Unable to read his intent, Tigari passed him an arrow from the quiver in her saddle. Elias casually tossed it in the air.

The arrow rotated as it flew through the air. Suddenly, it split in two and fell to the ground, making a dry sound.

"... I thought so."

"What was that?"

Tigari could not understand the spectacle before her eyes. Elias responded with an unpleasant expression.

"Steel wire. If it's low, it will cut your feet. If it's high, it will cut your neck. There's definitely more than one."

"I see."

Ludmiller nodded in admiration.

"This group moved ahead of us and waited for us to approach."

"They likely set it up ahead of time and would take advantage of it while we ran ahead to get rid of them. They must have explored this area quite a bit."

Elias gazed at the thin road along which multiple steel wires were spread.

"Eliasora. Use your (Veda) [Dragonic Skill] and blow them away."

"If the ground is destroyed, our horses will be unable to move forward, and the surrounding trees will get caught up in it."

Tigari turned to Lang, hearing a word she was unaccustomed to hearing.

"Lady Tigarivurmud, do you remember when Eliasora-sama killed the (Suro) Earth Dragon? Though I did not see it, Eliasora-sama did not use normal means to defeat the Dragon."

"Ah, it's true, he had done it when he called out (Ley Admos) [Cleave the Wind]..."

"That is the name of his [Dragonic Skill]"

Tigari thanked Lang and was called by Elias.

"Tigari. Any ideas? This foolish man doesn't seem to want to do anything troublesome himself."

"Do not tell lies. I simply said you should use your power first."

Tigari felt admiration seeing the two Vanadar glare at each other while ignoring the assassins in the vicinity. She could not understand how they could remain so calm.

- They're that used to it?

Tigari looked down the road where the presence felt rough as she thought it all pointless. She looked up at the sky clad in gray clouds and pulled out a small flask from her saddle.

When she opened the lid of the flask, she threw the water inside before her. A small sound of water splashing on the ground accompanied the black stain of where the water fell to.

In the air, countless drops of water floated, drawing a straight line as the water clung to the steel wire. Elias and Lang looked at her in admiration, and even Ludmiller could not hide his surprise.

"If there's light, it becomes easier to see this way... By the way, would there be a trap if we were to cut these?"

"I doubt they could afford the time for that. We left Rodnick today, but they would need to know exactly which path we were heading down."

When Elias finished speaking, a nearby leaf swayed; it was not done by the wind. Tigari noticed it, threw away her flask, and promptly grabbed her bow and arrows.

However, she did not nock her arrow in time. Her instinct, or perhaps something akin to intuition, told Tigari of a silent danger. She removed her foot from the bridle, forcibly took a defensive position, and jumped off her horse.

Immediately afterward, an arrow was released from the depths of the forest at a tremendous speed, piercing the trunk of a tree just beyond Tigari. If she was a moment late in jumping off or did not crouch to the ground, it would have gone through her chest.

- There's more to come...

In the branches and leaves Tigari aimed at before, a small figure jumped out. Though his stature was short like a child's, the face belonged to an adult male.

The man held a cylinder in his thin fingers and turned its tip to Tigari.

A needle spouted from the cylinder. Tigari could not avoid it, since her body had not yet been ready to move.

That moment, as if it slid along the ground, a gust rushed by. The needle tip pointed upward and fell to the ground.

When the man took out a new needle, Tigari nocked her arrow and shot at a distance a needle would reach him. The arrow pierced deeply through the man's head and stuck into the tree behind him.

"So so."

Elias smiled to Tigari on the ground from atop his horse with his long sword, the Silver Flash, in his hand. He had diverted the needle she was unable to avoid.

"Relax. You don't need to worry about arrows or needles hitting us as long as we're here."

"You saved me. Save the jokes for later."

Ludmiller looked down on the assassin's corpse with cold indifference and nodded with conviction.

"These men are the (Serasyu) Seven Chains."

"Seven Chains?"

Lang asked in a parrot-like fashion. Ludmiller responded as if it were a trivial matter.

"They are a notorious, seven man assassination group. It is my first time encountering them."

Ludmiller moved the tip of the spear in his hand toward the corpse. He pointed to a tattoo in the shape of a chain along the body's left arm.

"This tattoo is their proof of identity."

"You know quite a bit."

Both Tigari and Elias looked at Ludmiller in admiration. Rather than boasting, Ludmiller responded as if disheartened.

"That is natural. I have knowledge accumulated from generation to generation of the Lourie family. I am different from a Vanadar who is fresh off the farm."

Though Elias was clearly offended, he did not retort. He took a step or two back on his horse in order to protect Tigari who had finally risen.

Lang moved his horse accordingly to protect Elias.

The air wiggled again as movement occurred in the branches and leaves. Tigari and the others established their arms and took caution.

Suddenly, a black shadow fell from the branches of the trees stretched over Lang. It was the upper body of a man hanging upside down, hanging off a branch by his feet. He had lurked there and awaited his chance.

The assassin approached Lang at a furious speed and tried to stab him with a dagger; it was a poisonous fang that would easily take his life with only a graze.

Lang remained calm and cut through the man's neck with his sword. Fresh blood spouted from his wound and the assassin fell to the ground. Lang looked down to confirm his death.

In that moment, his reaction was delayed.

A snake fell from above and pounced on Lang. It was a two-step attack.

Lang failed to avoid the snake.

"Lang!"

Elias cried out; his face was pale. He moved out of instinct and cut through the snake with the Silver Flash. A blade of wind was released from his argent sword and the snake's head was cleanly bisected.

"How are you!?"

Tigari and Elias ran up to Lang. Though he opened his mouth to speak, no words came out.

Tigari caught him in her arms as he fell off his horse.

"What's wrong!?"

There was no answer. Lang's face was red with a fever, and sweat blotted his forehead.

- Is this poison?

Tigari looked at the corpse of the snake and confirmed its identity through the scales. She turned back and looked at Lang, but she could find no injury on his face or neck.

Two small holes were lined up neatly on his right chest.

"Tigari! What happened!? What's wrong with Lang!?"

Elias' expression and his tone showed he was nearly on the verge of tears, but Tigari did not look at him; she could not afford to.

She quietly lay Lang on the ground and tore his clothes off. She put her mouth to the wound on his right chest and began sucking strongly. She spat out the blood which had accumulated on the surface of his wound.

"...!"

A heated groan came from Lang's mouth as he was unable to bear the sensation.

- It's good I knew what kind of snake that was.

Many years ago, she had been taught how to treat such injuries from Bernice while she hunted in the mountains.

- If we quickly return to Rodnick, we can give him better care.

While she thought this, two more sounds hit Tigari's ear.

A chill ran down her backbone. Four shadows danced through the air above her. The hidden assassins had moved in unison.

It was impossible for Lang or her to move, and though Elias reacted, he was slower than usual.

- In a place like this...!

At that time, small legs landed near Tigari.

It was Ludmiller. The assassins did not come to attack his, and the Vanadar with blue hair was not even the slightest bit upset.

"- Lavias."

It was the name of his spear.

When he spun the spear in his hand, it grew to Ludmiller's height.

"(Shero Zam Kafa) Freeze the Sky."

His clear, cold voice, reminiscent of ice without a hint of impurity, sounded faintly throughout the forest. Ludmiller pierced the ground with the tip of his spear. A white light tinged with an icy air emitted from the tip as many crystals drew to Ludmiller.

The cold air erupted.

Tigari, who had witnessed the spectacle, could only express it that way.

Large crystals which froze the very atmosphere surrounded Ludmiller, as if drawn to protect him.

An uncountable number of ice spears were projected. It was a violent looking power; it looked like a large monster with many fangs lined up along its jaw.

The thorns of ice avoided Tigari and mowed down the surrounding trees or blew upward into the sky.

The assassins were unable to escape. Their faces and bodies were drilled through by sharp icicles, and their pale bodies were dyed red.

One man's head was crushed, killing him immediately, and there was another who reeled in pain as poison he possessed rained over him; however, that was over in an instant as his hand froze and shattered.

After confirming the assassins were no longer breathing, Ludmiller removed his spear from the ground thick with ice. He rotated his spear once and struck the ground lightly.

The ice blew away while emitting a sound as if glass were crushed. It melted into the air and sprinkled grains of white ice to the ground.

"- I am disappointed."

The shaft of the spear had shortened. Ludmiller vomited words as if provoking Elias, his eyes filled with anger and contempt.

"To lose yourself over a single vassal. Eliasora, you are not qualified to be a Vanadar. You should throw aside Arifal before you bring misfortune to your people."

After spitting out those words, Ludmiller mounted his horse without looking at Elias. Though Tigari was astonished and had trouble speaking, she finally called out to Ludmiller.

Ludmiller turned his head slightly to Tigari.

"Thanks. For helping."

The Vanadar with the spear of ice did not respond. His glance moved from Tigari past Elias. The cold atmosphere was blown away and scattered down the road.

Tigari saw him off and looked back at Lang.

His rich chest shook from his rough breathing. At last, Tigari considered what she had just done. His skin was faintly covered in sweat, and his right chest was faintly red where Tigari strongly sucked the poison from.

She had torn away all his clothes. After covering him up, she turned back to Elias to apologize.

The Vanadar with silver-white hair lowered the sword in his hand and silently stared at Tigari.

"His condition?"

"Because Lang is sturdy, he should be fine. From what I can remember, only the elderly and sick died from the poison from this snake. If we return to Rodnick, we can treat him and he should survive. The components for the medicine can be found anywhere."

Tigari spoke to encourage Elias. Though it was not a lie that the only ones to die were the elderly and the ill, there was no telling whether Lang would live or not. She did not know if the assassins modified the snake, either.

Reassured by Tigari, Elias' tense face relaxed.

"I got it. Tigari, you head to Rodnick and call a doctor. I'll carry Lang on my horse and catch up."

By the time Lang woke up, two days had passed.

The sun shined through the window, and the birds were chirping. For a while, he looked at the ceiling blankly. He suddenly felt a weight around his belly and cast his eyes downward.

It was the dull red hair he was accustomed to seeing. She seemed to be sleeping, since her faint breathing could be heard.

Lang tried to push her away on reflex, but stopped himself to confirm the situation. He was in a spacious room with a table and chair and the bed he slept on.

"Rodnick?"

It was too recent to forget. Lang searched his memory. It was cut off after he killed the assassin when he saw the snake.

At that time, the door opened and a boy with argent hair down to his waist smiled brightly at the sight of Lang.

"You're awake, Lang."

"Eliasora-sama."

Though Lang began to sit up, Elias shook his head and stopped him.

"Lang, we are not in the Imperial Palace. It's just the two of us; you can call me Elias like you did in old times."

"That is something I cannot do."

Though he smiled, rejection was clearly visible in his eyes. Lang continued to speak.

"Though I have said this before, I am the person most intimate with you, Eliasora-sama. I cannot simply use your nickname on such occasions."

"Thanks to that, she's the only one other than the Vanadar who calls me Elias."

Elias smiled bitterly as he turned to Tigari.

"Even if you told her to, to call Eliasora-sama by his nickname as a prisoner of war is truly surprising."

The two smiled as they looked at each other.

"... How is your body?"

"I am a little tired, but there should be no problem."

"I see. You should give your thanks to the sleepy head over there. She did some emergency treatment when you fell."

Elias explained the circumstances as he looked down at Tigari with folded arms.

After defeating the assassins, Tigari and Elias quickly returned to Rodnick.

The two carried Lang to the bed and took turns applying the medicine according to the doctor and nurse's directions.

"I thought you would be fine at first, but the doctor said there was a chance you would turn for the worse. I was really worried."

So as not to awaken Tigari, Elias quietly sat down before Lang and brought his hand forward kindly. Lang noticed the dark circles under Elias' eye.

"I'm really glad you're alive."

"I apologize. Even though I am to be your guard, I fell so easily."

"What are you talking about? You did what you needed to do."

Elias laughed and lightly touched Lang's forehead with his finger. Lang also smiled.

- Thank goodness.

Lang placed his right hand on his chest and quietly rejoiced that he survived. He could still serve Elias, he could still help him. He was happy.

"What of the assassins?"

"One escaped. Since the (Serasyu) [Seven Chains] act in a group of seven, they weren't completely annihilated, so we need to remain vigilant."

Lang suddenly frowned and stroke the wound. There were herbs ground into it, and it was covered in a clean cloth, but there was something he worried about before that.

"Eliasora-sama. You said Lady Tigarivurmud gave me emergency treatment?"

"Yes. I said that."

Lang's voice trembled.

"About that... what method did she use?"

"She sucked the poison from the wound."

Lang noticed the joyful nature in Elias' voice. His face quickly became red and hot. Though he had pushed reason aside and instinctively thought to beat Tigari's head, he succeeded in stopping just before doing so.

"I'll say this in his defense. She was desperate to help you at the time; she had no ulterior motives. If anything, I should be the one you hit."

The hand Lang had stopped in midair was pulled to Elias' chest.

"When you fell, I could only stand motionless. I could not think or do anything like a child."

"But you were the one who carried me here, Eliasora-sama."

Elias looked wistfully at Lang, as if he had something more to say, but all that left the mouth of the Vanadar with silver-white hair were his thanks.

He quietly grasped Lang's hand and let his heart soak in the warmth of his life. Elias reluctantly parted and stood up.

"We'll come back again. We need to leave and head to the Palace today."

Elias wore his vigorous and fearless face, the face of a Vanadar, once again as he spoke. Lang nodded and looked down at Tigari's head.

"If possible, I would like to let Tigari rest some more, since she's probably tired."

Elias smiled wryly; Lang nodded in agreement.

But they did not have the time to spare.

After thinking for a while, Lang decided to wake him as gently as possible. He placed his fingers in Tigari's red hair and tried to shake her awake.

"Lady Tigarivurmud. Please wake up."

However, Tigari groaned quietly and violently brushed Lang's hand aside.

Her hand moved further and grabbed Lang's chest. Though it was unconscious, she was massaging him quite vigorously.

Tigari was then awakened by a violent slap.

End of Chapter 4


Chapter 5
Cold Snow and Something Warm

Olmutz was located in the southwest portion of Zhcted.

To the north was LeitMeritz, which Elias governed. To the west were the Vosyes Mountains which acted as a border to Brune Kingdom. Muozinel Kingdom was in view beyond the wilderness, lakes, and mountains to the south.

The ruler of this Dukedom where men and cultures of three countries existed was Ludmiller Lourie.

He was a Vanadar called the (Michielia) [Snow Prince of the Frozen Wave].

At the moment, in his office in his Imperial Palace, Ludmiller quietly took tea.

He needed to clear up the work that had built up while he visited that man from LeitMeritz in the mountains.

Tea was Ludmiller's favorite dish, or perhaps it would be best to call it his hobby. He enjoyed brewing it himself and drinking it with others. The jam he mixed into it was also made by himself.

Ludmiller stopped his hands suddenly as he looked at the white porcelain tea cup.

"... I believe I said I would treat her to tea."

Because his interest had disappeared, he almost forgot her name. After pouring more tea, Ludmiller finally recalled it.

"It was Vorn, that aristocrat from Brune. Tigarivurmud Vorn."

It was a long name for a person from Brune. Ludmiller had no other impressions.

"Though he told His Majesty he was employed... Would he truly help such a man to defend LeitMeritz from war?"

If it was an issue of love as the rumors had said, it would simply be a bore. Rather, his taste in women would be poor.

- You are disqualified as a Vanadar if you place your emotions before your country, Eliasora.

Ludmiller Lourie's father was a Vanadar, as was his grandfather and great grandfather.

A person did not choose to be a Vanadar, so there can be no disagreement with the selection of the Vanadar. Though it was surprising the title of Vanadar passed down his generations, it was a pleasant thing. With a Vanadar as a teacher, he learned of what was needed for his position.

However, it was not that simple.

Sons were not always born, and there was no guarantee they would have the same brilliance. Even if he were talented, there was no guarantee he would grow as expected. Even after surpassing such difficulties, another person suited to being a Vanadar may appear.

Though many Vanadar tried to raise their sons to become Vanadar, there was rarely any success. There were very few who realized their desires.

There were few enough family lines in which the Vanadar had continued through the generations that it could be counted on one hand.

The Lourie family is one such rare example.

Ludmiller had been given an education on how to be a Vanadar from an early age. He was taught how to use a spear and horse, and he was given the knowledge necessary to govern the land of Olmutz.

Ludmiller was 14 when his father suddenly died of a cold which progressed to pneumonia. He departed the world in an unsatisfying manner after sleeping for several days.

The (Hajya no Zenkaku) [Spear of Evil Death] chose Ludmiller as the new Vanadar.

Superficially, Ludmiller did not mourn over his father's death. He did not have the time to spare for it.

Though no one hoped to become the Vanadar governing Olmutz more than Ludmiller, there were still people watching him.

He had a strong desire to protect his vassals and carry out his duties as a Vanadar, following his father and grandfather's footsteps.

Some time later, Ludmiller heard of a new Vanadar chosen to take over LeitMeritz.

Furthermore, he was 14, the same age as Ludmiller.

He was interested.

The Vanadar of Olmutz and the Vanadar of LeitMeritz had had a bad relationship over many generations.

Though it was natural they be wary of each other, having territories near each other, they had clashed more than just once or twice. Ludmiller's father was also involved in frequent arguments.

- This person I may fight, I wish to see him with my own eyes.

While Ludmiller was cautious, he held some hope as well.

- If we can become friends, then Olmutz and LeitMeritz will see a light of peace that has not been present since ancient times.

The idea came from his solitude as a ruler. The Vanadar from LeitMeritz was different from him; he was a traveler.

- Depending on the situation, I can teach her many things.

Ludmiller headed to LeitMeritz with such high hopes where he met Elias. Naturally, they did not get along; rather, they fought.

"You are a person fresh out of the country, an arrogant barbarian who has not a single fragment of modesty or humility."

That was Ludmiller's evaluation of Elias. Coincidentally, Elias had a similar appraisal of Ludmiller.

"He's a condescending boy with a large attitude who has nothing to boast of but his lineage."

Though Vanadar, they were 14 year old boys.

Furthermore, Ludmiller had been restless, and Elias was confused, having just become a Vanadar. Perhaps this result was inevitable.

Though they wanted to ignore each other, such a relationship was impossible due to their territories being near one another. Neither wanted to lose to the other, as well.

One year became two, and Elias had shown his merit on the battlefield and in how he governed LeitMeritz, so Ludmiller had no choice but to acknowledge him to some extent. That is why he held an interest in Tigari.

- I wonder what value that woman has.

A knock on the door restored Ludmiller to his surroundings. He had been lost in his thoughts for quite a while, as the tea in his white porcelain cup had gone completely cold.

"Enter."

He gently spoke before an elderly chamberlain entered, displaying a reverent attitude. He had worked in the Imperial Palace since his father's time and was one of Ludmiller's trusted subordinates.

"A messenger representing Duke Thenardier has come."

Ludmiller frowned. Honestly, he did not want to meet him.

His association with Duke Thenardier was from the time of his great grandfather. The Duke at that time was known as a man of character. The household in the present day was known for the tyranny it spread amongst the people under its charge.

However, he was always sincere with his business outside the country, and Ludmiller never felt dissatisfaction in his correspondence.

- I am the Lord of Olmutz. I must not give priority to my personal emotions.

"... I will meet him."

Ludmiller responded calmly and stood from his chair.


Elias intended to move his soldiers to Brune immediately upon returning to the Imperial Palace, but he received an unexpected report.

"Olmutz soldiers are gathered near the border?"

The soldier reported there were signs of movement in the direction of Olmutz.

"Yes. Approximately two thousand troops are training and preparing for winter."

"Is Ludmiller there?"

"Many of our scouts have confirmed his presence."

- Is this a check?

Elias' face clouded over. Ludmiller said he was siding with Duke Thenardier, and he took action immediately.

In addition, a letter from Viscount Augre was sent from Alsace.

[A suspicious traveler was caught in the Vosyes Mountains. He had a strange letter we wanted you to see.]

After the bandits had been swept away, Viscount Augre and her men made numerous trips to the Vosyes Mountains. She was on the lookout for any bandits that may have remained when she caught a traveler.

The letter was addressed from Duke Thenardier to Ludmiller.

Removing the formalities and compliments in the letter, it could be easily simplified.

[When Eliasora takes command of his troops and heads to Brune, I want you to immediately attack LeitMeritz as originally planned.]

Tigari headed to the office and showed the letter to Elias and Lang who were fighting a pile of papers in front of them.

Elias quickly looked over the letter and snorted.

"Though the daughter who was killed in Molsheim was an idiot, it seems her father is quite a villain. He's good."

Tigari looked at Lang who arranged documents next to Elias. He responded without looking away from the papers.

"Lady Tigarivurmud. Why do you think the Duke sent his messengers up the Vosyes Mountains? Since Viscount Augre is at odds with the Duke, is it not too dangerous to use that path, even if it is the shortest route to Olmutz?"

Tigari felt it was as he said. She was surprised.

"Then... the Duke is trying to provoke us by letting this letter fall into our hands?"

"That is most likely. To fight a Vanadar, it is natural to use another Vanadar."

Elias spoke and patted the Arifal's sheath as it leaned against the wall.

"But how did he know Viscount Augre was our ally? If not for the bandits..."

Tigari's words ended there.

- I see, so he employed them to attack the fields...

He realized why the bandits had remained in the Vosyes Mountains and how they procured the armor from Olmutz.

- The Duke has connections with Olmutz, so that much should be simple for him. He probably dislikes Viscount Augre for advocating neutrality, so he has no qualms about attacking.

When Tigre stated his reasoning, Lang expressed his approval with light clapping.

"The Duke likely changed his plans. When we defeated the bandits, Territoire allied with us, but our relation with Ludmiller-sama became poor. He likely wanted to use this to crush Eliasora-sama."

"The message Ludmiller likely received was asking him to move his soldiers in such a way that they would restrain my movements. Given the length of their relationship, she probably understands exactly how much he will do."

In order to annoy Elias, Ludmiller moved his soldiers to the border in order to watch for Elias' departure from LeitMeritz.

Even if he successfully left his territory, he needed to leave his soldiers behind in the case of an emergency.

In order for Thenardier to fight Ganelon without worrying about the third force forming beneath Tigari, he had to crush Tigari before Elias regained his freedom of action.

"No, if it's him, he might attack once I move away..."

"However, Ludmiller-sama will gain nothing if he fights with you, Eliasora-sama."

He protects his association with Thenardier. The problem is where Ludmiller's values lie.

Elias groaned with his arms crossed. He looked out the window and gazed at the scenery as he planned his actions.

Before long, he returned the longsword to the wall and looked back at Tigari with a small sigh.

"Tigari. You decide."

Elias stared at Tigari with his bright red eyes. Tigari returned a look of bewilderment.

"Even if it means following her provocations, I believe Ludmiller should be defeated here. It would be fine if he simply moved to the border to provoke you into action, but you must rid yourself of any anxiety you might have in the future. However... If you wish to head to Brune immediately, I will follow after you."

Tigari did not respond immediately.

"... You would leave such an important decision to me?"

This decision would significantly impact the future.

He had killed the assassins, who attacked all at once, without much difficulty. It would not be an easy battle. If they fought Ludmiller, they would lose time and soldiers.

However, as Elias said, it was dangerous to return to Brune while ignoring him.

If Ludmiller attacked LeitMeritz, even if Elias returned immediately, the land would be severely damaged. Thenardier would also move in at that time and get rid of Tigari.

Tigari did not think she had the capabilities to judge the situation.

However, Elias nodded as he stared straight at Tigari.

"It is precisely because this is important that I want you to decide."

Elias spoke bluntly and turned away.

Tigari stirred her dull red hair and quietly shut her eyes. She explored her memories, little by little, of the day she met Ludmiller. She looked at every expression and recalled every word.

- That's right. There's no need to hesitate.

Ludmiller's words and attitude were clear.

If he judged it necessary, he would fight.

It was not just LeitMeritz that Ludmiller was threatening, but Territoire as well, which lay across the Vosyes Mountains.

She could not lose the ally she had just gained.

Tigari opened her eyes with a will to fight and spoke in a dignified manner.

"We will send two messengers to him. We will show him the letter, and if its content is a lie and he truly has no hostility, we will request he have her soldiers stand down as proof."

"And if you are rejected, or if there is a delay in the response?"

"We will apply a time limit. If he complains, we will remove him by force."

Elias laughed as he and Lang looked at each other, hearing Tigari's clear response.

"Then let's do that."

The next day, three thousand soldiers, led by Tigari, Elias, and Lang, moved to the south of LeitMeritz and stopped near the border. They sent a messenger to Ludmiller, appealing for his retreat.

Ludmiller rejected them twice, so the LeitMeritz Army resumed their march.

The fight between Vanadar began.

Ludmiller Lourie received a report that the troops of LeitMeritz were approaching.

Ludmiller basically used the same housing as the soldiers, and he took the same meals as them. The only thing that could be called an exception was tea. He almost always carried it, and was drinking his tea when he received the report.

"I see. So Eliasora has come."

The scouts have confirmed his appearance. Furthermore, next to the Vanadar-sama of the Silver Flash, there is a young woman with red hair of the same age.

Regardless of who the Lord was, it was customary in Zhcted to pay honor to the Vanadar.

"Red hair... Ah, Tigarivurmud Vorn."

Ludmiller muttered without much interest. Tigari was simply a bonus alongside Elias; she was a trivial existence.

When the soldier finished the report, Ludmiller thanked him for his hard work.

"You must be tired. Have a cup of tea."

He took a small heated stone placed beside his chair and set an iron kettle filled with hot water atop it. The soldier gave his words of gratitude as Ludmiller sat back down and placed two crystal jars before them. One held tea leaves while the other held jam.

The hot water was poured into the white porcelain cups, and the jam melted.

"It is hot. Take care and drink slowly."

The soldier thanked him again and took the cup graciously. Ludmiller watched him with a smile. It was soothing for him to see someone savor the tea he brewed himself.

When the soldier left, his smile disappeared. Ludmiller called for his Commanders.

"I will have Eleanora brought before me. I will defeat her myself."

Ludmiller extended his hand and grasped the spear at his side.

The handle of the spear was short, and the tip was surrounded by crystals of ice.

It was the (Viralt) Dragonic Tool which commands the cold, the Frozen Wave Lavias.

"We will move as planned. We will battle him on Burkina Plains and then shut ourselves in the Tatra Mountains."

"... Lourie-sama."

There were two Commanders standing before him. One was in his mid 30s and had a much richer experience in combat than Ludmiller, who was still 16. He excelled in swordsmanship and horsemanship. He gazed sadly at the boy he served.

"What is it?"

Though Ludmiller understood what she wished to say, he still asked.

"Do you truly intend to fight the (Silvfrau) [Wind Prince of the Silver Flash]?"

"I will do so because it is necessary to show my loyalty to the Duke of another country."

Ludmiller caught their gaze and responded with a grim voice.

"The Lourie family has had connections with Duke Thenardier's household for more than eighty years. I cannot simply cut it off on my own."

- I have pride and dignity. I am different from Eliasora...!

That thought supported Ludmiller as well as bound him.

In accordance to the commands given by the Vanader with blue hair, the Olmutz Army took action.

It took approximately half a day after they left LeitMeritz, passing through the lands under direct control of the kingdom, for them to enter Olmutz. They were met with undulated grasslands.

This grassland, the Burkina Plains, overlooked the Tatra Mountains to the east. It was wrapped in the cold wind which flew down from the mountains in the autumn evenings. During the winter, there was an occasional light snowfall.

Elias led three thousand troops from LeitMeritz. By the time they reached Burkina Plains, everyone wore a thick mantle. The sky was covered in gray clouds, hiding the morning sun. The dismal weather further cooled the air; the soldiers' breath was white.

"The enemy is before us! They number two thousand!"

They finished preparing, and the soldiers were in formation. Elias smiled fearlessly.

Before long, a black mass appeared in the distance, advancing along the ground. They held spears of wood and iron to the sky. The (Zirnitra) Black Dragon Flag could be seen at intervals alongside a fluttering white flag with a blue spear, the banner of the Vanadar.

With a distance of five hundred alsin (approximately five hundred meters) separating the armies, something suddenly fell from the sky.

"... Snow?"

It was unknown who muttered those words. The snow disappeared before it hit the ground, and was followed by more snow drifting down quietly from the sky. The horn of both armies sounded.

All interest in the snow disappeared as both armies charged.

Several thousand bowstrings trembled, and innumerable arrows poured down over both armies.

Once the battle settled down, Elias led his army forward.

The cavalry raised their spears and gave a cry before rushing forward. They kicked up the grass and shook the earth. The infantry hardened their bodies on reflex.

The two armies which mutually held the Black Dragon Flag clashed; their spears crossed and their shields collided.

Some soldiers collapsed from the horses' unstoppable charge, while others knocked the cavalry to the ground. Those who had fallen were trampled on or cut down as the soldiers swarmed across the land.

The grass was wet, and the cold disappeared as blood dyed the earth. The heat rapidly escaped from the corpses as they fell, while others were quickly crushed as they tried to stand again.

Though the cavalry under Elias' control was strong, the soldiers following Ludmiller stubbornly resisted.

"First Army, retreat. Move forward, Second Team."

The first set of cavalry retreated and were closely replaced by the cavalry charging in from behind. Though it was just as energetic as the previous attack, it did not break through Ludmiller's heavy infantry.

- Now then, what should I do...

While Elias assumed leadership of the LeitMeritz Army, he watched the battle carefully from the rear. He did not think it possible to break the enemy's defense from the front, so he gave Lang the order to attack from the side.

After a while, a report came.

"Langlisha-sama's troops were pushed back."

"... And Lang?"

"He is alive and well."

Elias let out a breath of relief and hit the longsword at his waist. The wind strengthened, as if Arifal was complaining.

"I'll be gone for a moment."

Tigari, who was next to Elias, was also commanding the troops. She advanced her horse with her bow in hand.

"Don't do the impossible."

"I won't die here."

The cavalry rushed forward again. This time, Tigari did not take command but participated as a soldier. Once she judged she was at an appropriate distance, she fired an arrow.

The arrow pierced the leg of an Olmutz soldier who held his spear up, ready to fight the LeitMeritz Army. The soldier fell to his knee and groaned.

"Well done."

The Commander of the cavalry gave short words of praise as he stood next to Tigari.

"They have good armor."

Tigari answered with an unpleasant expression. The armor worn by the Olmutz soldiers had very few gaps, and they had a long shield in their left arm. This forced Tigari to aim at their arms and legs.

"Even so, no average soldier can match your reach with an arrow."

It was clear from the reaction of the Olmutz soldiers. They had closed the distance quickly.

The cavalry collided and pushed one another down. Tigari also shot arrow after arrow, knocking Olmutz soldiers down.

- Where's the commander? I need to aim at him.

Tigari observed the enemy force and searched for the person in charge. Amongst the swarming soldiers, the glittering swords and spears, and the flying arrows, she could act without hesitation; perhaps it was something uncommon that Tigari possessed.

She found him.

Tigari discovered the person she assumed took lead of the soldiers and fired her bow. However, when the enemy looked as if it were collapsing, other soldiers reinforced their position and the line was repaired.

Though Tigari defeated three people who acted as Commander, the cavalry moved to retreat and abandoned their offense, so she was unable to attack any further.

The LeitMeritz gave up its offensive and retreated. The Olmutz Army also fell back.

By the end of the day, nothing had been settled. Each side had more than one hundred killed in action and fortified their positions five belsta (approximately five kilometers) away.

The snow covered the LeitMeritz Army along with the darkness of the night. Tigari headed to Elias' tent when the sun was sinking.

Alongside Lang, Elias had taken to a frugal meal of wine and cheese when he noticed Tigari. He smiled, both appreciation and a desire to tease her mixed within.

"It seems you fought well, according to the reports. How are Ludmiller's soldiers?"

"Solid."

It was the first impression she had. Elias laughed and nodded earnestly.

"That's right. He is ridiculously good at defense. He might be the best amongst all Vanadar in defensive battles."

She sat before the two. Lang prepared wine and cheese for her. She gave her thanks and looked at Elias while nibbling at the cheese.

"Even if you break through, they recover quickly before their wound expands, and even if you attack from the side and from behind, they will push back. They don't respond to provocation. In essence, he does not take any chances yet still remains aggressive."

"However, I did not see Ludmiller-sama at the head of the attack."

"I'd rather not see him if possible."

Tigari recalled his appearance as he killed the assassins in an instant. She looked downward seriously and thought about the battlefield.

"What, it's not like I'll lose. It's a field battle. We'll beat and crush him tomorrow."

Elias spoke aggressively, either to encourage Tigari or to inspire himself. Lang looked at Elias expressionlessly.

"I believe we said it was pointless to advance against him."

"He probably has no other hands. Ludmiller's defenses are harder than before. Tigari took the trouble to kill some of his Commanders, so I doubt he can make the best use of his troops now. Ludmiller has no choice but to be killed."

"Eliasora-sama. Have you looked at Ludmiller-sama's current war record?"

Elias thought for a moment with his arms crossed before sitting upright and responding proudly.

"Two victories, one defeat."

"That is not the same number we heard when we last spoke to Ludmiller-sama."

"What do you mean?"

Tigari frowned and looked at Lang. Lang took a drink while answering indifferently.

"It is of my opinion that they were at a tie; however, they both insist it was their victory."

Tigari sighed and looked at Elias in amazement.

"Your relationship really is a bad one."

"It's a tradition for LeitMeritz and Olmutz to not get along."

"Tradition?"

"The previous Vanadar and the Vanadar from the generation before have always been hostile toward the Lourie family... That is, Ludmiller's father and grandfather."

Though Elias replied indignantly, Tigari tilted her head due to something having caught her attention.

"Ludmiller's father and grandfather were Vanadar?"

"His family line is quite old. He's arrogant because of that."

"... Are Vanadar hereditary in nature?"

Tigari looked at Elias with a bewildered face. After that, he muttered quietly, as though convincing himself.

"Well, it should be fine to tell you. Don't tell others, though. The Vanadar are chosen by the (Viralt) Dragonic Tool."

Tigari was unable to react immediately, having been told such an important thing so easily. Elias picked up Arifal and placed it over his shoulder. He looked at the sheath of the longsword lovingly, though with sarcasm mixed into his gaze.

"A little over two years ago, this fellow chose me to be her Vanadar."

"... I don't quite understand."

Tigari's voice had become hoarse.

- The weapon chooses its wielder. Though I have seen these in myths and fairy tales, I did not think they actually existed. Weapons are weapons, after all.

However, while Tigari insisted this loudly in her mind, Tigari's memories objected. The longsword in Elias' hand occasionally playfully hit her with wind.

Also, there was the black bow to her side.

Once before, her bow and Arifal showed a strange resonance. It had spoken to her, and it had done something beyond human knowledge.

- Maybe that's why Elias told me.

She felt as though she had stepped into an unknown world in a different dimension. Tigari felt a moment of dismay and wondered if she should even hear this story.

However, Tigari shook it away immediately.

It was something she should know.

One day, she may be confronted with the mystery of her black bow.

She wanted to do more, to be able to help Elias more in the future.

Elias laughed happily upon seeing Tigari's expression.

"Good eyes. You're listening seriously."

"Um, how does the (Viralt) Dragonic Tool chooses the Vanadar?"

"It suddenly appears before the selected person. If the person takes it in his hand, words flow into his head. It's a bit difficult to explain, but it told me I had become a Vanadar and to head to the Imperial Palace. So I was a Vanadar the day I appeared before the Palace."

- Words...

Tigari glanced at the black bow beside her. After collecting herself, she returned her eyes to Elias.

"What became of the previous Vanadar?"

"He retired. These guys-"

Elias held Arifal up.

"They choose a Vanadar when the previous Vanadar is unworthy of their position. That time is judged by these things. It could happen when they're ill or when they have a severe injury that makes life difficult. It also happens if they become incompatible or die. When I arrived at LeitMeritz, my predecessor's funeral had just ended. The Grand Chamberlain at the Imperial Palace simply bowed before me."

"... Did the people of the Imperial Palace accept it?"

Though Tigari had succeeded her father two years ago when she became an Earl, she understood the situation was completely different. She had lived in Alsace her entire childhood and knew the surroundings and people. She had the support of everyone there.

"Though there were probably some who didn't like it, this guy chose me, so they couldn't help but accept it."

Elias sarcastically laughed as he shrugged his shoulders. A swirl of wind surrounded Arifal, as if it were proud of itself.

"Also the people of LeitMeritz, no, the people of Zhcted, were all accustomed to it. This tradition has been in practice since Zhcted was first established. Rather than the (Viralt) [Dragonic Tool] choosing the Vanadar, the Vanadar are chosen by some mystic force. That's how most people interpret it."

While tracing his finger along Arifal's blade, Elias looked with a disappointed expression.

"However, that's not very convincing with Lavias. It chose the same bloodline; it even chose that Ludmiller. I can only think its eyes are rotten."

Though Tigari was about to say it had no eyes to be rotten, she knew there was some kind of intent in Arifal. It might have eyes unknown to man which lay elsewhere.

"Tigari, what do you think? Do you think that man who boasts of his lineage is suitable to being a Vanadar? I don't understand why Lavias would choose someone who looks down on others."

"Ah, yeah..."

She recalled Ludmiller. Tigari nodded to indicate her agreement.

"Lady Tigarivurmud. I should say this now, but please ignore Eliasora-sama's evaluation of Ludmiller-sama."

Lang sighed.

"Even their first meeting was terrible..."


Two years ago, when LeitMeritz was celebrating Elias' arrival as the new Vanadar, Ludmiller came to visit.

Elias went out to see what he wanted just shortly after he began learning proper court etiquette. The civil servants were at a loss for words as he somehow managed a proper greeting.

"Oh my, LeitMeritz is quite tolerant."

Ludmiller reacted by speaking with an arrogant tone and a haughty sneer.

"I had some expectations of a Vanadar my age, though I should apologize for doing so without permission. I suppose it cannot be helped. You are welcome to come play in Olmutz if you wish, though you may want to learn your manners first. I believe even you would not want to be laughed at."

Ludmiller brought his hand to his mouth and elegantly laughed; however, his blue eyes clearly looked down on Elias from a superior position.

He was looking at me like I was some kind of ape, Elias complained to Lang at a later date.

"Ah, but perhaps I can teach you. If you bow your head down to me, I can teach you anything, including manners, of course."

"Oh? That's right. Can you teach me how to become taller? Or is that possible? I suppose if you knew of any methods, you would have tried them out long ago."

Ludmiller was one head shorter than Elias, and it seemed to have touched a nerve, as the blue-haired Vanadar flushed red and shouted childishly.

"I, I was simply being kind!"

"Hm. So those of Olmutz impose their kindness on others. It doesn't seem so great."

Ludmiller flinched and stammered while Elias mercilessly continued his attack.

"Who was the one to teach you propriety? She certainly must be a splendid person. Maybe I could use her to clean the yard."

"Wha- I will not permit you to insult my father!"

Elias' bright red eyes and Ludmiller's deep blue eyes exploded with hostility.

"I see, so it was your father. Good. You should come with him and I can teach you both how to properly prostrate yourself."

"You... How dare you say that, even though you are a Vanadar fresh from the countryside!"

The two boys rolled up their pants and sleeves and pounced on each other like wild beasts.

"In the end, they were shouting and fighting. It took ten people including me to pull them apart."

"Ten people..."

Tigari stared at Lang in sympathy as he finished talking. Elias had turned away midway and remained silent.

"As a third party, who did you think was at fault?"

"It was a childish fight, so it is difficult to decide."

Tigari gave her answer as she thought through the story again.

"Ludmiller-sama's attitude certainly was maddening to watch to others, but he was not being malicious; he had good intentions. Though I am unsure of how things are now..."

"- Are you finished with the unpleasant talk?"

Lang smiled bitterly having been interrupted. Elias turned around without concealing his poor mood.

"Let us return to the topic on hand. Anyway, Ludmiller and I will fight one on one tomorrow. I will destroy his impregnable defenses and tear him away from the army. That way, it won't be a repeat of today."

Though Lang desperately thought of words of rebuttal, he knew they could not spend a significant time on this.

Tigari began to speak.

"If we destroy the enemy, can you pull back immediately? Even if it is in the midst of battle?"

Though Tigari understood Elias' strength, Ludmiller also had the power of a Vanadar. Tigari understood Lang's anxieties.

If they could not propose an alternate plan, they had no other choice but to overwhelm the enemy as quickly as possible to shorten the duration of Elias and Ludmiller's fight.

Though Elias looked bitter, he looked at Tigari's eyes and Lang's expression and nodded.

The next day, Burkina Plains was covered in the thick, early morning fog which did not allow the sunlight to penetrate through. It was likely due to the cold meadow remaining from the day before.

"This is bad..."

Following Elias's instructions, the LeitMeritz Army retreated three belsta (approximately three kilometers) back.

The fog derailed everyone's senses. In a state in which the white mist blocked sight just a few steps ahead, many were subject to the illusion of shadows.

Though it was not impossible to advance while taking advantage of the fog, the land was Ludmiller's garden, so to speak. He was well informed of the geographical features, so it necessitated caution on llias' part. Though the fog cleared up within one koku, something surprising occurred.

Ludmiller's Army had disappeared.

Burkina Plains was empty, even with the fog gone. The two thousand troops from Olmutz led by Ludmiller were nowhere to be found.

Elias sent scouts in all directions and soon found the whereabouts of the enemy.

"The colors of the (Zirnitra) Black Dragon Flag have been found in the Tatra Mountains. There are many barriers set up along the mountain path. It seems Ludmiller-sama is preparing for a siege."

Elias heard the report and groaned after sending the soldier away.

"We've been had..."

Elias muttered to himself. Hearing this, Tigari frowned.

"Was this Ludmiller's plan from the start?"

"That's right. Yesterday's fight was to have us focus on this area."

The LeitMeritz Army quickly moved to the Tatra Mountains before day's end.

By the time they reached the base of the mountains, the day had mostly passed.

"This is no less steep than Vosyes."

That was Tigari's first impression as she looked up the mountain.

Though it was nowhere as large as the Vosyes Mountain range, it was still quite high. At the end of the slope was a steep cliff.

Dark trees concealed the surface of the mountain. Bare rocks could be seen in various places, and snow covered the land thickly, giving the mountain an even more steep appearance.

The scouts from the LeitMeritz Army were shot at from soldiers in the village at the foot of the mountain. They were forced to give many silver coins to the villagers to extract accurate information on the surroundings. By the time all was done, it was late in the evening.

"It seems Tatra Fortress is located at the summit of the mountain, and it's surrounded by step hills to the right, left, and behind it."

Lang summarized the information and reported to Elias in the tent.

"The entire mountain is steep, and when the locals go to hunt and forage for edible plants, they rarely leave the main path. Though there are other roads, they do not come out near the fortress. That is all they can tell us about the known paths."

"What about a river leading deeper?"

Elias guessed there would be some source of water leading to the fortress.

"It seems there is a waterfall in the center..."

- So that's useless as well.

When Lang's report ended, Elias left the tent and ordered his soldiers to remain on standby. He and Tigari approached the mountains.

The mountain path was heavily fortified as dictated by Ludmiller. Large walls were built and wide trenches were dug. Fences made of hardened wood, stone, and soil were erected, and archers were established behind them.

There were many such defensive positions placed on the road.

Elias spoke to Tigari while watching the path from a distance.

"How would you attack it?"

Tigari observed the defenses for a while and sighed.

- Even if we make the soldiers charge, they will be hit with a storm of arrows while they move past the fences and trenches.

"It would take time, but what about some sort of battering ram or catapult?"

"That won't cut it with her. Ludmiller could freeze the key locations with Lavias, and his gate will be harder than a poor castle gate. Can you reach the archers with your bow at that height?"

"Though it's possible, there wouldn't be much point in it."

From that height, they could simply obtain iron shields and defend themselves while shooting from the gaps. They would probably have replacements for anyone that was shot down, as well.

"What about the thing you used to kill the (Suro) Earth Dragon?"

Ludmiller had already used Lavias' power. There was no reason for him not to use his own.

"Eh? Ah... The (Veda) [Dragonic Skill]. I can't do it."

While holding his silver-white hair, which had been disturbed by the wind, Elias shrugged his shoulders deftly.

"You've seen it once. Do you know the weakness of my Dragonic Skill?"

Tigari tilted her head and looked up at the gray sky in thought.

She thought about how the Dragonic Skill which could obliterate a Dragon could have a weakness.

Seeing Tigari unable to come up with an answer for a long time, Elias smiled and pointed at her with his finger.

"The first weakness is distance. It won't reach an enemy that is too far away. If we assume I use my Dragonic Skill before a trench, I would destroy the trench and blow away the fences and the walls; however, it would not reach the hill behind them. As for the other one-"

Elias put up his second finger.

"The Dragonic Skill collects the surrounding winds. In that instant, the defense I have from the wind will not be effective. If arrows are shot at me during that time, I can't block them."

Tigari frowned. The location seemed to have been built specifically to oppose Elias. Elias noticed Tigari's face and shrugged his shoulders and smiled cynically.

"It's something Ludmiller's grandfather thought of. He calculated that position specifically to counter Arifal, so it seems my predecessors suffered."

The next day, the LeitMeritz Army attacked the mountain path upon which snow drifted about on countless occasions.

The enemy's arrows were blocked by shields, and the crossbows and arbalest prepared were not as effective as they expected.

Even if they managed to destroy the fence, a new one was installed, and with the frozen earth and cold air, further pursuit was impossible.

The Olmutz Army had no intent of leaving their position to fight. Those not fighting brought soil and stones to further strengthen the walls.

Furthermore, they had built a catapult to throw large rocks and barrels full of earth and sand. The LeitMeritz Army was forced to retreat.

The LeitMeritz Army repeatedly advanced and retreated in restless waves. The Olmutz Army stood like a large stone, neither moving forward nor backward.

It was simply a waste of time.

The battle had simply become a standoff. After several days, Elias had become impatient.

On that day, their attack had ended in a failure. Tigari returned with the weary soldiers and gave words of appreciation before heading to the Commander's tent.

Once it came into view, she frowned. There should have been a few soldiers standing guard around it, but there was no one on watch.

Furthermore, she could hear quarreling inside.

Her pace naturally quickened and she entered the tent.

"Then what else can we do!?"

Suddenly, Elias' angry voice roared throughout the tent, taking Tigari by surprise.

Elias had a passionate attitude as his bright red eyes glared at Lang. The adjutant with golden hair stood resolutely before the pressure exuded by the Vanadar.

"What's wrong? I can hear you even from outside."

Elias looked at Tigari with a frown. His expression quickly returned to one of a sulking child before he stomped him way across the tent and grabbed a bottle of wine in the corner. He quickly opened the bottle and drank its contents.

"What happened?"

She did not dare to lower her voice when she asked Lang. Lang responded with a relieved expression.

"Lady Tigarivurmud, please stop him. Eliasora-sama wants to attack their defensive position alone."

Tigari's mouth was half open in amazement. Tigari looked at Lang in blank surprise; there was no way the General of an army would be allowed to attack alone.

"It can't be helped."

While gripping the bottle of wine, Elias looked at Tigari with a sullen face.

"If it's me, I can fly over with Arifal. I can get behind their defense and cut down all the Olmutz soldiers."

Tigari looked at him unreasonably. Naturally, Lang put a stop to his words.

"It is useless."

"Then come up with another plan."

"Though I have no other proposal, It is still useless."

Though she thought it no different from a childish quarrel, Tigari spoke and made her assertion with a strong tone.

"Ludmiller's grandfather thought of that. You said that yourself, right? In that case, even if you have many soldiers prepared, it wouldn't be a simple task."

"But we have no other choice! Many days have passed, and our situation has not changed. You should have faith in my swordsmanship."

Elias was not budging at all. He stared at Tigari and walked forward. Using both hands, he grabbed Tigari's head, preventing her from moving.

"Did I let you go free too much? Tigari. Surely you haven't forgotten already. Who do you belong to?"

It was an intense atmosphere, and he pressed strongly against her skin. Tigari breathed slowly and answered.

"I belong to you."

"That's right. In that case, you should believe in me and let me do this, right?"

The passion in his red eyes nearly suffocated Tigari.

What Elias said, while worrisome, was reasonable.

However, he was the General of the army. Even if the possibility of failure was small, he could not be recklessly exposed to danger.

- Even if I told him to stop, he wouldn't. But we don't have any other plan, so what can I do?

She hesitated, but after some worrying, Tigari extended her hands. She shut her eyes and sandwiched Elias' face with her hands as he had done to her. With Elias' movements stopped for a moment, she quietly brought her head forward to his. It was not an action she thought about, but something done naturally.

"Wha, Eh..."

Elias was surprised, confused, and panicked. She could feel it in his voice through her palm.

Tigari let out a breath of relief in her mind because she did not feel anger from Elias.

- Since I did this so suddenly, I was prepared to get hit.

Even with such an abrupt reaction, she was not rejected; he trusted her. All that remained was for her to force her words out through the tension.

She would properly communicate her feelings.

"You are important to me. Even if I were not yours, I don't think anything would change. It was my decision that pulled you to the battlefield, so I know I'm being selfish, but I don't want you to do anything reckless."

Silence fell upon the tent. Since Tigari's eyes were closed, she could not understand Elias' reaction.

Before long, Elias' hands parted from Tigari.

"... Really."

It was a small, trembling voice which reached Tigari's ear.

"Do you really cherish me?"

"Of course."

"Do you cherish me the most?"

She found herself at a loss for words.

"... What did you just think of right now?"

Though it was not visible to Tigari, Lang was glaring at her from a distance. Tigari responded honestly in the dangerous atmosphere.

"Alsace."

She heard a sigh. The two parted and Elias took a step back. Tigari opened her eyes after losing the feel of him on her hand and saw Elias smiling bitterly with his hands on his waist.

"You're a woman with a strong love for her home. Well, that's fine. Alsace is mine as well."

Just a moment ago, he was in such a bad mood that she would hesitate to call out to him, but it had vanished. His cheerful smile and bright red eyes returned.

The Elias Tigari and Lang were accustomed to seeing stood before them.

"By the way, if you had said a man's name, you would be one head shorter. You've exercised your wisdom well. I'll praise you for that."

Tigari shrugged her shoulders silently, though she was curious in the back of her mind. Elias was a little red and spoke more rapidly than usual.

Tigari was a pubescent woman of marriageable age, so she may have been aware of Elias as a member of the opposite sex.

However, there were other things to do first. She needed to tie up all loose ends.

"By the way, I had a favor I wanted to ask of you."


Each time she took a step forward, a heavy sound echoed from below. The sky had not changed at all, and an almost pure-white snow covered the ground. Occasionally, her feet slid against ice rather than snow.

Her body was wrapped in a fur mantle as she walked along the frozen surface. Tigari vaguely thought the fur was double layered to keep the cold away. The white breath she expelled was nearly invisible against the snow.

Her hat was made from the head of a bear. To be more exact, the entire headpiece was fashioned to act as headgear. Holes were placed in the eyes and ears to allow her to see and hear, and the mouth was open so she could speak.

It was something Lang lent to her.

"This is what I brought as protection against the cold."

He told Tigari this as he covered her head. Though it was a little tight, she could barely feel the cold seeping up from her neck.

She carefully progressed toward a tree not buried in snow. She leaned against it to rest when she reached it and was tempted to sit down.

She took a flask from her waist and drank some water.

- This is the third day.

That was how long it had been since Tigari entered the Tatra Mountains.

She asked Elias to allow her to search for a mountain path that would head to the top of the mountain.

"Weren't you just trying to prevent me from acting alone?"

Elias spoke sarcastically, though his tone was slightly peevish. Eventually he consented.

"However... Will you really be fine?"

He glanced at her anxiously. Tigari simply struck her chest proudly to reassure him.

It was not a lie. She was accustomed to climbing steep mountains in Alsace.

Even if she was found by the enemy, she could evade them by acting as a hunter. Her form was that of a hunter, and she had knowledge as a hunter herself. She had confirmed there were snow leopards throughout the mountains by asking the people in the village.

She was suddenly hit by a bout of drowsiness, and her body leaned over.

Tigari put strength to her legs and hit her head to awaken himself. The cold had sapped her stamina, and the weight of the snow only made her more fatigued.

- I don't have much food. There's enough water, since I found a river...

She was anxious as well. After leaving Alsace, many days had passed, and Duke Thenardier would soon begin his movements.

- But I came here of my own accord.

When looking down from a cliff overhead, Tigari had learned she had come quite a ways up the mountain.

- I have one day left at most...

After finishing her rest, Tigari resumed her walk through the snow.

She saw a fox far away. It was about five chet (approximately fifty centimeters) in size.

Perhaps it had been distracted by something, as it had stopped in its place. After secretly hiding her body with a nearby tree, Tigari quickly nocked an arrow.

If she killed it, it would give her a sufficient amount of food.

The distance to the fox was two hundred alsin (approximately two hundred meters). It would be no problem, even if it was slightly higher on the gentle slope.

She bent her bowstring and shot the arrow.

By the time her bowstring stopped vibrating, the arrow had pierced the fox's head.

"... What?"

Tigari tilted her head. The fox collapsed in an odd way. At any rate, Tigari continued to walk toward it while paying careful attention to her steps. When she had walked half the distance, she noticed a small shadow appear near where the fox fell. It was a petite boy.

- Ludmiller...!?

He was the stern boy she had met in Rodnick and was now her enemy, the blue-haired Vanadar. Though it was odd to see a casually dressed boy in the snow-covered mountains, she could accept it if it were him.

Tigari stopped her feet and intently observed him. Ludmiller noticed her and remained where he stood.

- Is he waiting for me?

Though she thought of running away, she would only seem suspicious.

- My face is hidden, and I'm disguised as a hunter as we planned.

She was truly grateful to Lang for the bear headgear and wished to thank him from the bottom of her heart. The snow sounded noisily as Tigari climbed the slope.

Like she thought, it was Ludmiller.

He wore the same blue clothes decorated with red and gold. In his hand was a commonplace bow. His spear of ice was thrust violently into the nearby ground.

He smiled in a carefree manner, without malice or hostility.

He seemed not to have noticed that it was Tigari.

"Did you shoot this arrow?"

Ludmiller spoke in a tone many would consider haughty as he pointed to the fox. The fox had an arrow through its head and in the scruff of its neck. His finger pointed to the arrow in its head.

- So that's how it is.

Ludmiller was keeping an eye on this fox as well. Their arrows had hit at nearly the same time. Though unusual, it was not unique.

Tigari tilted her quiver to show her arrows. It was clear to understand seeing the fletching on her arrows.

- Even so...

Tigari spoke, her voice clearly showing her worry.

"Um... Aren't you cold?"

Though he wore clothes with luxurious decorations, his arms, legs, and abdomen were exposed. It was not suitable for walking through the snowy mountains.

"I am fine, because I am a special existence."

Ludmiller pushed his chest forward slightly and answered proudly. Tigari was taken aback as he looked at her with shining eyes the color of the deep sea.

"By the way, you seemed to have walked a fair distance. Where did you hit this beast from?"

Tigari looked back to where she walked from and pointed at the tree where she hid and took aim at the fox. Ludmiller's expression rapidly became sharp.

"Stop lying, commoner. That is beyond two hundred alsin, is it not? And such small game..."

Tigari shrugged her shoulders and retrieved an arrow from her quiver. She knew at times like this that it would be best to show his directly.

The bowstring trembled as she fired the arrow. She struck the tree as intended, shaking the snow which had accumulated on the branches.

As she looked back, she felt a childish sense of satisfaction. Ludmiller stared at the arrow with his mouth half open.

Before long, Ludmiller turned back and apologized to Tigari in an awkward manner.

"... I, I apologize. I doubted your words."

- Like I thought, this boy can admit his own errors.

Tigari was glad to have learned of his merits, if only a little bit.

"By the way, how should we divide this? Shall we divide it in two?"

Ludmiller pointed to the fox with the bow in his hand. His arrow was stuck in the fox's neck.

"... I suppose we should divide it evenly in this situation."

"That is fine with me. Ah, I will give the meat to you, since it is unnecessary. I simply want the fur."

"Then you may have the fur. I will take the rest."

She could eat the meat and entrails and cut the bones down into arrowheads. There were other uses as well. Though she would like the fur, it was not a problem if she did not have it.

"Very well."

Ludmiller smiled brightly and held out his hand. Tigari grasped it tightly as she recalled Elias' cheerful smile.

She removed the fox meat, chopped it up, and cooked it in a small pan.

They had moved a short distance from where they met, closer to the river. The two decided to take a rest while Tigari took care of the fox.

Though it took time to ignite the firewood in the snow, she had managed to get it started. In the mountains, after the sun had passed its zenith and began to descend, the two surrounded the pan.

"Why is it that you do not take off your headgear? You should have no problem with the snow or cold when you are near me."

Ludmiller asked Tigari curiously as she skinned the fox.

As he had said, they were free from the cold, unrelated to the fire.

- Most likely, this is the power of his (Viralt) Dragonic Tool.

It was a spear that manipulated the cold and the reason Ludmiller could walk around the snowy mountains in such light clothing.

"Could it be... you are a Vanadar?"

It would seem unnatural not to question Ludmiller's words, so Tigari carefully asked him. He looked at Tigari in dissatisfaction.

"Though you are right... You have no sense of humility, really."

Tigari hesitated and thought about what she should do. She thought it may have been best to prostrate herself before him.

"No matter. I will pardon it out of respect for your skill with the bow. I shall forgive your rudeness."

Tigari let out a breath of relief and bowed slightly. After that, she noticed Ludmiller's glance and placed her finger to her headgear.

"In my village, we are not to take this off while hunting in the mountains."

It was an old story she heard from her father. Tigari gave an appropriate response using the information she could remember.

"I see. How regrettable. I would like to see your face."

Ludmiller spoke earnestly. Tigari remained silent, but she was sweating beneath the mask.

If he learned of her identity, she would not escape the mountain alive. Even if he took mercy on her on a whim, he would certainly confine her in the castle dungeon.

- He really hasn't noticed.

He simply thought of her as a simple hunter and stopped pursuing the matter. The only thing between the two was a small pan.

If he were further from the spear and she caught him off guard, she could pin him down. As soon as she thought that far, however, Tigari shook the thought out of her head. Her chances of victory were too slim, and she could not easily ambush this boy who spoke to her sincerely and kindly. Ludmiller suddenly called out to Tigari.

"What is your name?"

"... Urz."

Tigari used her father's name.

"I see. Urz. Serve me."

Ludmiller spoke as if it were a matter of course.

"Your skill with the bow is wonderful. That alone is valuable enough to allow you to serve me."

"... I am not a hunter from nearby. I came from far away."

She spoke in intervals, but Tigari was able to squeeze out her words.

"I see. It would be strange not to have heard of you if you were a woman from Olmutz."

"I have no plans of leaving my home."

Tigari was able to speak her true feelings without telling a lie.

Tigari felt guilty using her father's name to lie to Ludmiller.

- This boy, his attitude aside, he frankly accepted me.

Ludmiller's words contained no lies. Perhaps because he thought of Tigari as a commoner, he was, in his own way, receiving her on equal footing.

- If he looked down on commoners, I would have probably been made to leave quickly without the fox. No, it would be possible he would have forced me to carry it to the fortress.

If an aristocrat in Brune were greedy, such as Duke Thenardier, he may have been punished for damaging the fox.

Eventually, Tigari finished dismantling the fox. Though she was tired and cut corners on occasion, 70% of the skin still remained. Tigari explained the circumstances to Ludmiller.

"For the fine details, please give it to a specialist to handle."

"I understand. Thank you for your work."

After that, Tigari and Ludmiller ate a little of the fox meat. She washed away the blood and seasoned it with salt. Ludmiller did not particularly complain.

The pan was easily washed with melted snow before being placed in his bag. The extra meat and offal were buried in a hole. In the meantime, Ludmiller put a new pot to boil after washing it out with water.

- Is he drinking hot water?

Though Tigari thought that, she felt it was something different after a time. Ludmiller opened two crystal bottles held at his waist and placed what appeared to be dry, black seeds into a cup.

When he poured the hot water into it, the water became slightly red.

He then scooped jam from the other bottle and placed it in the hot red water and waited for it to melt away.

"Have a drink."

Tigari received the steaming cup. Perhaps it was due to the natural atmosphere, or perhaps it was his attitude, for some reason, she was unable to refuse.

"It is tea. It will warm your body and your mind."

Tigari took care not to burn himself and gingerly sipped the tea.

A mysterious smell stimulated her nasal cavity. The bitterness and sweetness spread to her tongue. The fatigue collected in her body seemed to disappear all at once.

"... It's delicious."

Without thinking, she muttered those words. Ludmiller's face quickly glowed with joy.

"It is, right? If you want another drink, I will especially pour it for you."

Ludmiller's chest puffed out with pride as he smiled innocently. Tigari asked for another cup upon his insistence.

- So he can smile like this as well.

Whenever she took a sip, her body was warmed from the inside. Ludmiller watched Tigari drink the tea with an elated expression.

After they had finally rested, Ludmiller turned to look at Tigari with interest.

"Urz. Why are you here? You should have some idea of what is going on. There are many soldiers walking about the mountain paths, and it is clear this is a battlefield."

"There are certain animals lurking about the mountains that only appear at these times."

"I am amazed. I did not think a person would come to such a place. I will have to rethink things."

Though dangerous words were about to come out of her mouth, she swallowed them back down.

"Why is a Vanadar here? Why would you come here without your attendants?"

"... It is an exception."

Ludmiller, who had always held a high-handed attitude, showed a weak expression for the first time. His short blue hair shook as he gazed into the distance.

"I just wanted to relax."

"... If you are satisfied with me, I will listen."

After hesitating, Tigari said those words.

If she were to bid farewell, she would have to leave quickly. She could not overlook Ludmiller's lonely profile.

Ludmiller looked at Tigari in surprise.

"If you can't speak, then vent into the hollow of a tree. It is an old saying."

"- You are quite gentle for a bear."

Ludmiller held his knees and gazed upward at Tigari. It was a gesture matching a normal young boy.

Before long, Ludmiller gradually spoke.

He had pride as a Vanadar that succeeded down the generations of his family. Because of his position, he had subdued his own emotions to maintain relations with a person he hated.

In particular, Ludmiller vented his anger like a raging fire when he spoke of Duke Thenardier handing out the armor from his territory to the bandits.

"I was able to hunt alone today... I think the soldiers will forgive me. I need at least a little time to relax and distract myself."

Though there were places Tigari appeared in his story, she never spoke up. She simply nodded and responded to his occasional question.

Even if it was for her own safety, she hid her identity from him.

Speaking any more simply seemed cowardly.

"Urz. I will remember your name. You are always welcome to come to the Imperial Palace in Olmutz."

Ludmiller left him with those words as the two separated. He held the fox with his spear and walked away at a light pace along the snowy ground.

- Is that also the power of the spear? He can walk so easily on this snow-covered mountain.

After his figure had become distant, Tigari changed her thought process and began to follow his footsteps. Ludmiller would not likely notice at this distance, but she still remained cautious as she slowly advanced.

The sun had hidden itself on the other side of the mountain. Only its afterglow illuminated the hill.

- Not good. Once the sun sets, I won't be able to follow him.

While fighting her impatience, Tigari kept her pace and advanced, little by little. This was her last chance.

Her legs lacked strength, and her breath was frozen.

By the time the sun set, Tigari stood atop a cliff. There was a fortress beneath her eyes.

She quietly spent the night in the mountains and descended in the morning.

"You have a terrible face."

They were the words Elias greeted Tigari with when she returned. Tigari's words were not normal, either.

"Please let me sleep for half a day."

She had put off shaving, eating, and changing her clothes. Tigari collapsed the moment she entered the tent and slept as she was.

The position of the LeitMeritz Army had not changed while Tigari was climbing the mountain. Though they had not changed their method of attacking the mountain path, they had not achieved any significant results. They had not even made their way past the first defensive line.

Still, Elias and Lang continued to attack to provide as much support as possible for Tigari while she surveyed the mountain.

The sun had set, and the attack that day had ended in a pointless manner. Tigari finally awoke.

She quickly ate fish soup alone and shaved herself, leaving a few scratches along her jaw. When Tigari was finally finished, she returned to the tent and sat in a circle with Elias and Lang.

"... I'm back."

Elias teased her with his gaze at this late hour and listened to her seriously.

"You slept and ate quite well. So how did it go? Did you find anything?"

"Two hundred... no, one hundred people can be taken up to the castle. Then we need to take the gate down."

Perhaps because the defense of the mountain path was not perfect, the defense of the fort itself was not particularly special. The defenses which had plagued Elias were not installed around the fort, nor were there many soldiers standing guard at the gate or patrolling the walls.

Even without siege weapons like battering rams, they could pass the wall by using a hook and a rope ladder according to Tigari's judgment.

"Well done!"

After hearing her story, Elias gave his evaluation and hit Tigari's shoulder. He then cheerfully spoke his instructions to Lang.

"... Is it fine? With only one hundred people?"

"It will be enough. They have two thousand troops, and at least half of them are on the mountain path, leaving fewer than one thousand within the fortress. They are likely guarding the other mountain paths on shifts. This should not change if we continue our attacks here. At that time-"

Elias shut one eye, but his other eye had enough spirit to fill both.

"When the time comes, I will prove to you that I can hold down Ludmiller and his one thousand men. I will show you the strength of the Vanadar."

"How reliable."

Elias' mood lifted when it came to a fight. Tigari noticed it had happened to her before she was aware of it.

After that, Tigari told them she met Ludmiller.

"Were you noticed?"

"I owe it to this headpiece."

While she replied jokingly, Lang looked down in silence with a red face. Tigari smiled wryly seeing his reaction and returned to the conversation. She did not specifically speak of their conversation, but told them she had been treated to tea. Though Elias clearly frowned, he did not complain; however, he did speak up at the end.

"Carrying tea and jam at a time like that. He really is funny."

Tigari was also in agreement.

They quickly made preparations. Early the next morning one hundred LeitMeritz cavalry, led by Tigari and Elias, used the morning mist to approach the foot of the Tatra Mountains.

Lang took command of the remaining soldiers and attacked the mountain path. Though dissatisfaction clearly showed in his blue eyes, he followed directions while maintaining his expressionless facade.

Though there were only one hundred cavalry, it was difficult to travel along the mountain without a road. The soldiers did not wear armor but a combination of fur and leather. There were many who were injured as their feet slipped and the rocks fell on top of them.

They tied their bodies together with rope as they advanced up the slopes which had been covered in ice halfway up. Elias encouraged the soldiers, and Tigari directed the work. Slowly, the LeitMeritz soldiers moved across the snow-covered mountain.

When the eastern sky was dyed indigo and the sun invaded the western sky, they had reached where Tigari stood several days ago.

They looked down at the castle fort before their eyes.

However, something unexpected occurred.

"... Tigari, you said the security wasn't tight."

When Tigari had looked at the gate on the other side of the fortress days ago, there was no one in sight.

However, a defensive line had been constructed before the gate. Though there were no hills, and the trenches were not deep, the threat it provided still remained.

In addition, the number of soldiers on the rampart had increased. Some remained stationary with bow in hand.

"Strange. There was nothing like that before."

"Ludmiller probably came up with the idea when he met you."

Elias looked down at the fortress with a grim expression.

Though she had a superior skill as a hunter, she was a free person who was not a Vanadar. All alone, she had managed to climb the mountain on a snow-covered path. Seeing this, Ludmiller had changed his defenses. It was not a mystery at all.

"What should we do? Give up and return?"

Tigari carefully asked him. Elias folded his arms and shook his head strongly as he refused her.

"If we turn back here, all our efforts would come to waste. I absolutely do not want that."

Tigari gazed at Elias in surprise having heard him make such a frank declaration. Elias looked back and spoke once again.

"I will destroy the gate."

"It is too dangerous. They will hit you with arrows from the ramparts."

Tigari gripped Elias' shoulder and stared at him.

"What, it's not like I'll be injured."

Elias waved his hand as if pushing the matter aside. He grasped Tigari's neck and drew her closer as Tigari tried to argue again.

Elias lightly pressed his forehead against hers.

"You need to give me the chance to look good on occasion."

He whispered and smiled brightly as he removed his hand from Tigari.

"Watch, Tigari. I will destroy everything before the castle gate in a single blow. I will take care of the gate with my second attack."

Certainly, under the present circumstances, there was no other hand they could play. Tigari bit down on her lips, strong enough that blood began to flow, and glared at the black bow in her hand.

- What do I need to do to get you to help me again?

She understood it was a selfish wish to ask of something she feared.

Tigari wanted to do something for Elias.

Soon, the sun sank completely.

Under the cover of darkness, the LeitMeritz troops carefully moved down the steep slope. They used rope to prevent themselves from falling and covered their swords in dirt to cover their shine.

When all members were set and their numbers confirmed by Elias and Tigari, Elias spoke to his soldiers in his typical tone.

"I will wrench the gate open. You will rush in at that time."

His words were short, and there was no other feasible plan. The soldiers did not object, nor did they show any doubt. They had complete faith in Elias, the (Silvfrau) Wind Prince of the Silver Flash.

"May the Dragon bring us victory."

After completing his instructions, Elias turned to the castle gate.

He made his soldiers stand aside and quietly walked forward alone.

In the light of the bonfire near the gates, the Olmutz soldiers noticed Elias. As they began to call out and prepare their weapons, Elias ran lightly across the snow and frozen ground and unsheathed the longsword at his waist.

"- Arifal."

Following his cry, the blade of the longsword glowed with a pale light. The frozen air was stolen from the mountains and surrounded the sword. A loud groan was heard, and the glowing light drew a brilliant trajectory in the darkness.

"(Ley Admos) Cleave the Wind!"

The wind condensed to a point and turned into an invisible iron hammer that was thrown forward. The earth and sand was blown away, the trenches were buried in dirt, and the fences were shattered. As the wind closed in on the city gate, it scattered in all directions, losing its power.

"The enemy!"

Many shouts were heard on the ramparts as they shot their arrows at Elias.

Elias did not move from his position as he protected his head with his empty left arm. He did not use the wind to defend himself as he continued to collect the wind with his longsword.

Several arrows grazed his arms and legs as they fell from above.

"Elias!"

Mud was thrown aside as Tigari ran and jumped at Elias from behind. She pushed him down to provide cover for him. An arrow glanced off his shoulder as she fell. Inside the torrent of arrows, Tigari grabbed Elias' body and dragged him to a distance the arrows would not reach.

"What are you doing, Tigari. My second attack-"

Elias began protesting in frustration but was silenced by Tigari's voice.

"Why did you lie to me?"

"... I just didn't tell you."

Elias looked like a sulking child as he turned away, causing Tigari to speak in irritation.

"Your (Veda) Dragonic Skill, you can't use it continuously?"

Elias frowned and closed his mouth, but, pressured by Tigari's glance, he reluctantly answered her.

"I need about a ten count..."

Tigari had to force down the anger welling from the bottom of her heart. If she did not, she may have hit Elias.

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"We don't have any time."

Tigari shut her mouth and her anger disappeared in an instant. It was not Elias that lacked time, but Tigari.

Elias did something unreasonable for Tigari and resorted to keeping it a secret.

Torches could be seen dotting the ramparts as soldiers began gathering.

- What should I do? I need to do something.

Tigari grasped her bow tightly, enough to feel pain in her hand. Her hand was stained red from the blood that flowed down from her shoulder.

She wanted to repay his kindness, but she needed power. She needed the same strength he used when he felled the Dragon. She needed the strength she had when they killed the Dragon together.

At that moment, Tigari stopped breathing.

- Maybe I can.

Tigari removed her gaze from Elias and looked at the Silver Flash in his hand.

"I'm asking you. Your power. Please lend it to me."

Tigari desperately appealed to the longsword.

"Your Master is Elias. Though your relation with Elias is good, there is no direct connection between us; however, I know you have your own will. I'm asking you. You may not be able to hear what I say, you may not want to hear-"

At that time, a breeze stroked Tigari's dull red hair.

Tigari thought it was the Silver Flash's answer.

"Can you stand?"

While supporting Elias' body, Tigari stared at the castle gate. Elias seemed puzzled as he looked between Tigari and the sword in his hand.

After taking a breath, Elias firmly stood and smiled at Tigari.

"I was right to cooperate with you."

He pointed the Silver Flash at the castle gate.

"At this distance, my (Veda) Dragonic Skill won't reach, but that should be fine."

The next attack would not be his Dragonic Skill. At least, it would not be done by Elias.

"Arifal. I'm disappointed at how flirtatious you're being... Well, it's fine if it's just this guy."

His bright red eyes glittered with determination. The long sword called the Silver Flash let loose a pale blue light once again. Tigari and Elias stood beside one another and stared at the castle gate.

One nocked an arrow to her bow and drew the bowstring back. The other extended his hand which held a shining sword. Their aim was the thick iron gate.

The soldiers on the rampart stopped firing as they looked curiously at Tigari. They knew the power of the Silver Flash would not reach them, let alone a bow and arrow.

The next moment, they stood aghast as if they had seen a nightmare.

A wind flowed from the Silver Flash to the arrow nocked in Tigari's bow.

A glowing air current surrounded the arrow; the light pulsated, spreading radially from the arrowhead.

- I didn't hear a voice this time, but...

It was enough. Tigari firmly believed in her bow and arrow.

The arrow was silent the moment she released it.

The light changed from a circle to a line as it followed the speeding arrow. A shrill sound tore through the atmosphere as it cut across the air.

The debris of the fences and walls were torn aside without a sound, and a deep groove was born.

The ground was split, and the arrow pierced the center of the castle gate. There was a jarring metallic sound as a light vibration was felt across the rampart.

Several soldiers looked at the walls suspiciously.

There was no abnormality in the castle gate, though it was only for a single instant.

Suddenly, a circular light spread from the arrow. As if following after the light, the iron gate became hollow. The bolts supporting it from the inside were cleanly cut.

The iron door had hollowed out and was cleanly divided between the two doors. The fragments fell to the ground, shaking the earth in the process.

The soldiers looked in shock as they looked at the circular hole in the gate. Their thoughts stopped; no one could take action.

The gate was made of three iron sheets sandwiched between thick oak planks. Even then, it had a hole in it, as if it were cut by a cookie cutter.

The hole was large enough that a wagon could pass through with room to spare. The freezing wind easily blew inside.

Elias was the first to collect himself. He did not miss the pause in the enemy's movements and lifted the Silver Flash to the sky while giving a cry.

"Charge!"

Next to him, Tigari nocked a new arrow. One hundred cavalry followed the two inside.

The night battle in the Tatra Mountains had just begun.

One woman watched the dogfight with a gloomy expression from behind. However, her target was not him but the woman with dull red hair.

Six of her companions were gone. She was now alone. Even so, the man focused her mind on the enormous prey, the Vanadar.

Along the woman's left arm was a tattoo of a large chain.


Ludmiller was surprised when he received the report that Elias appeared in the castle interior; however, he was rendered speechless when he found how they had passed the castle gate. He stood stunned for a short time.

- What is the meaning of this? Eliasora should not have been able to break through so soon...!

However, there was no time to be surprised, nor was there room to think. Ludmiller quickly dashed out of the command room while gripping the Frozen Wave. He ran at full speed toward the battlefield.

Elsewhere, the Olmutz soldiers near the gates took appropriate action once they recovered from their surprise. In other words, they abandoned the gates.

Even if they left the castle gate, there was a canal through which the river passed. There was a bridge over the canal; they would fend off the enemy there.

However, if it came to an exchange of sword and spear, the LeitMeritz soldiers would be stronger. They did not think they could fight this number so easily, so there was a hint of distress.

Each had become a ferocious beast as they violently attacked the enemy. They battered the enemy's helmet or pierced through them with a spear. Even if their swords were broken, they fought on with what little blade remained or brandished weapons they took from the surrounding corpses.

The Olmutz soldiers would not back away either. They had been invaded, so they could not possibly retreat. They crushed the enemy with battle axes and slammed into them with broken shields.

Corpses from both sides dropped one after another into the moat. It would soon be completely full.

However, the battle was not even.

Though the Olmutz troops fought back, they were forced to retreat repeatedly.

The LeitMeritz soldiers were energetic because Elias, the Silver Flash, had taken lead.

His hair of silver white fluttered through the air and brilliantly reflected the light. Olmutz soldiers fell one after the other as his longsword glittered. His movements were like a dance. Every person could see the beauty in his ghastly actions.

Tigari stood next to Elias, shooting arrows. Every time her bowstring sounded, a soldier or Commander from the rear was sent to her death.

Her accuracy was frightening. In the darkness of the night, with only the dim light of the surrounding torches, Tigari's arrows brought a guaranteed slaughter to the soldiers in the back. Tigari's arrows killed with certainty.

There were some who noticed Tigari's existence. Though some tried to shoot her, their arrows fell short or were deflected into the moat, leaving only a modest sound as they fell into the water.

Unexpectedly, the Olmutz soldiers divided to the right and left, forming a narrow road.

"Eliasora!"

It was a shout of anger. Lavias was held upward as Ludmiller charged forward on his horse.

The longsword clashed with the spear. A screeching sound split the atmosphere, and a flash burned the soldiers' eyes.

"Fall back!"

No one knew whether Eliasora or Ludmiller said the words. Perhaps they had given the order simultaneously.

The soldiers stopped fighting and spread out, forming a ring. They would not interfere with the duel between their Lords.

Though Tigari had stopped, she did not move away from the bridge.

Though closer than anyone else, she could not follow the fight.

"To think you would show up personally, and with such an ungraceful appearance, as well?"

"I came to give my thanks. I'm indebted to you for that time."

While measuring the distance, Elias responded with a serious expression. After confirming Ludmiller's suspicious expression, the Vanadar with silver-white hair smiled audaciously.

"By the way, I've brought you a present. Please accept your defeat gracefully."

"- I will refuse. I will send you back to LeitMeritz encased in ice!"

Again the two clashed. A blinding light was released with every exchange of blows. The sword and spear drew white arcs in the darkness. The pressure caused wounds, and the collisions deafened the ear.

The exchange of offense and defense continued. Heat and light were emitted by the two, and the cold air was sucked into the darkness of the night.

- Has there ever been a person to fight with Elias for so long?

Tigari held her breath as she watched the battle between the two Vanadar. When she fought in the fortress, and when she fought against the Thenardier Army, there was never a person who had exchanged blows with Elias more than ten times.

Ludmiller skillfully manipulated his short spear, and violently thrust his weapon before him, clashing with Elias' own attack.

After the unexpected collision between (Viralt) Dragonic Tools, Elias and Ludmiller jumped back simultaneously.

A fearless smile floated to Elias' lips.

"(Ley Admos) Cleave the Wind!"

Arifal inhaled the winds in the surroundings and formed a brutal blade that shot forward; however, it was not aimed toward Ludmiller. The bridge was crushed, and debris fell into the water below.

The bridge had been torn in half.

Ignoring the disastrous scene before him, Ludmiller began to run. Even with the gap before him, he showed no signs of hesitation.

"(Shero Zam Kafa) Freeze the Sky!"

The air froze in an instant and large blocks of ice connected to form a bridge. Rather than staying put, Elias stepped forward and moved along the ice bridge before him. Several spears of ice formed and attacked him while Ludmiller slid along the ice and approached Elias, his spear thrust before him.

Elias' feet left the bridge and were wrapped in wind. He avoided the spear of ice and gripped Ludmiller's sleeve as he passed to the side, dragging him down from the bridge.

Ludmiller gazed at the water as his body approached the surface. He brought the tip of his spear forcefully into the surface of the water where it stuck.

"- (Aizbilk) Silent World"

Beginning at the tip of Lavias, the water froze at a frightening speed. Using his spear as a fulcrum, Ludmiller twisted his body and landed on the icy scaffold.

"As always, you fight in such an unrefined manner."

Ludmiller looked at Elias with icy eyes. Elias brought his longsword to his shoulder and responded calmly.

"I fight to win. I don't bother choosing a specific method, nor am I burdened by such useless things. Regardless-"

He laughed scornfully as he looked down at Ludmiller.

"As someone who always looks down on others, how does it feel to be looked down upon? No, I suppose if you consider our heights, this is the same as always."

"- Lavias!"

Ludmiller responded with fury and grasped the handle of his spear. He disappeared in an instant as the handle of his spear grew, rising above the bridge with surprising swiftness. He danced high above in the air.

While in midair, the spear shaft returned to its former short length. Ludmiller yelled aloud as he fell toward Elias, using the momentum of his fall to aid him.

Lavias froze the surrounding air. In an instant, a huge blade of ice appeared at the tip of the spear.

Elias thought to avoid it and held the Silver Flash toward Ludmiller in anticipation.

However, Elias' energy had been quite spent, so he decided not to dodge.

Arifal inhaled the wind, clothing its argent blade in numerous swirls. A large blade of wind in no way inferior to Lavias was formed.

- This is the end!

- I will take victory!

"Cut and Sever, (Arifal) Silver Flash!"

"Pierce, (Lavias) Frozen Wave!"

The torrent of wind crushed all in its wake; the large crystals drilled into all that was touched.

The storm prevented the ice from piercing Elias, while the blocks of ice prevented the storm from attacking Ludmiller.

The two huge crotches tore at each others' flesh.

The beasts were exhausted at the same moment.

The air expanded, and a sound, similar to a thunderstorm, burst through the air. Elias was blown away and fell to his knee. Ludmiller landed on the bridge in a similar pose.

Though Tigari stepped forward to help Elias stand, the Vanadar with argent hair shouted, sensing her movements.

"Stay away, Tigari."

Tigari stopped moving.

"Relax. It's over already."

Elias stood up unsteadily and gazed at Ludmiller. Ludmiller used his spear to support his as he rose. He controlled his subordinates with his hand as they rushed to help him.

The two dragged their injured bodies within distance. Their arms trembled in exhaustion.

At that time, one man ran out from amongst the LeitMeritz soldiers who watched the battle in silence. Though he wore soldier's garment, he carried a dagger soaked in poison; he was clearly not a soldier.

Ludmiller noticed the man's existence before Elias.

The Vanadar with blue hair, without any hesitation, summoned all his strength and ran to Elias' side. He stood behind Elias, protecting his back. Cries of grief and despair were heard from soldiers of both armies.

Even if Ludmiller interfered, the man would not hesitate. The blade in his hand glittered as he posed to stab Ludmiller.

The next moment, the man's body flew sideways.

He smashed into the bridge with an arrow piercing through his head before falling into the moat. Ludmiller saw the shape of the feathers.

- Just now...

Ludmiller turned his gaze to where the arrow was shot from.

One young woman with dull red hair stood posed, a black bow in her hand.

"That was close, Tigari."

Elias' words contained joy. Ludmiller looked at Tigari with a vacant face before turning back to Elias.

"What's with that face? Don't tell me you forgot what Tigari looked like."

Ludmiller did not listen to Elias' words to the end. He walked up to Tigari and looked up at her with anger clearly visible in his eyes the color of the deep sea.

"You lied to me, Urz."

Tigari turned pale and was at a loss for words after seeing Ludmiller's expression. Ludmiller continued to speak quietly.

"I saw the arrows."

"... Sorry."

Ludmiller mercilessly beat Tigari as she bowed.

"Why are you apologizing? Why did you help me here? With your bow arm, you could have easily waited for me to die before killing the assassin. Why did you help me?"

He looked at her sharply. Tigari churned her dull red hair with a somber expression.

"It was a show of my gratitude, I guess."

"Gratitude?"

Ludmiller frowned. Tigari continued speaking after she gave her preface.

"- The tea was delicious. It isn't simple flattery. It really was good."

Tigari was tired, and Ludmiller was good at brewing tea. However, more than anything, Ludmiller had spoken to Tigari as a boy, not as a Vanadar.

That is why the tea was so delicious.

Ludmiller quietly looked at Tigari's face for a time. He would not overlook any change in her emotions.

Eventually, he sighed as his body lost strength.

"Earl Vorn. What is it you request of me?"

Ludmiller was not asking in an arrogant manner but with a character befitting a graceful prince.

"Do you wish for me to fight Duke Thenardier with you?"

Tigari shook her head.

"Declare your neutrality and do not move. There is nothing more I desire."

"... Only that?"

Ludmiller frowned beautifully, hearing an unconvincing answer.

"Do you not need allies?"

"I do; however, there is nothing beneficial if you were to fight alongside me. I could not possibly ask this of you when you have nothing to gain."

"In other words, you do not have any intent to fight for your personal gain?"

"Honestly, even Alsace is too wide for me. I'm fine so long as it is peaceful."

Ludmiller looked surprised. After staring intently at Tigari for a time, Ludmiller smiled bitterly.

"Are you seriously saying that?"

"Of course."

She gave an immediate response. Ludmiller looked down. His shoulders shook, little by little, until he burst into laughter. The soldiers, Elias, and Tigari watched in astonishment.

After a short period of time, Ludmiller finished laughing. He looked up with an expression as sharp and cold as his spear.

"Earl Vorn. Sincerity is important, but it does not work in every situation."

Though Tigari did not show it on her face, she was filled with bitter emotions. She thought about whether it was useless. While deep in thought, Ludmiller smiled musingly at Tigari.

"However, your sincerity is enough this time. For this civil war in Brune, I will declare neutrality from this moment forward and will not cooperate with any power – is that enough?"

Tigari felt relieved. While she began to give her thanks, Elias stood before Tigari, pushing Ludmiller aside.

"Wait, Tigari. Don't decide without talking to me first."

His hands were at his waist and he was clearly dissatisfied. No doubt, it was resentment that came from her neglect at the moment; however, Ludmiller detected a certain emotion within his words.

"Oh? Could you be jealous, Eliasora?"

"I'll fucking knock you down, shorty."

With another clash between the two about to unfold, Tigari broke into a panic and stood between them. She felt as though she stood between a wolf and a leopard.

"Ludmiller, I would like to say one more thing."

Tigari spoke hastily, which softened the dangerous atmosphere. Feeling relief, Tigari turned to the Vanadar with blue hair and bowed with a smile.

"Thank you. For protecting Elias."

"...!"

Ludmiller was aware of the action he had performed before. He blushed, and his eyes wandered about the surroundings. Elias walked in front of Ludmiller with an indescribably awkward expression.

"... Th, Thank you."

Though she stammered, she still gave thanks.

Ludmiller overreacted and cried out with enough vigor that saliva flew through the air.

"I, I do not need you to thank me!"

The war had finally ended.

End of Chapter 5


Epilogue

Ludmiller bore all damages from the battle.

Ludmiller had made a promise with Tigari to declare his neutrality. This had a powerful effect in both Brune and Zhcted. Duke Thenardier had lost a powerful ally.

"We will meet again."

At the border between LeitMeritz and Olmutz, Tigari and Elias shook hands with Ludmiller before separating.

"I have many things I must apologize for."

"There's no need to worry. I spoke poorly a number of times as well."

Tigari laughed and spoke in a joking tone.

"Earl Vorn. When your fight ends, please stop by Olmutz. I will serve you an even more delicious tea."

"Unfortunately, Tigari will never be going to Olmutz again. How regrettable."

Without hiding his annoyance, Elias pulled on Tigari's sleeve as he moved forward on his horse. When she looked back at Ludmiller, about ten steps away, she saw Ludmiller glaring at him with his tongue stuck out.

Tigari was amazed to see his far-too-childish gesture. She heard Ludmiller speak; however, the words were directed more toward Elias than Tigari.

"If you get tired of that fucking man, I will always welcome you."

"Tigari is mine!"

Elias' yell was heard clearly in the winter air and melted into the sky above.

Like that, they returned to LeitMeritz.

By the time Tigarivurmud Vorn returned to Alsace, one month had passed.

She returned alongside five thousand troops fighting beneath the (Zirnitra) Black Dragon Flag, led by Elias.

In Alsace, she met with Viscount Augre who rode with one thousand men.

"Though it is a patchwork army, you may use them as you please."

The previous autumn, she was a young woman who could lead one hundred cavalry at best; now she had sixty times this number and would soon attempt to face her enemy.

There were many things she felt uneasy about. There was not yet a response from the King's Capital.

Marcia's safety was also a concern, for she was making her appeal to His Majesty, the King.

Tigari marched to the west of Territoire toward Nemetacum, the land Duke Thenardier governed.

A light snow drifted down from the ash-gray sky. Winter had finally begun.

End of Volume 2


Cast:

Drekavitch: ? (Japanese); ? (English)

Gertrude Augre: ? (Japanese); ? (English)

Ludmiller Lourie: Yuki Kaji (Japanese); Todd Haberkorn (English)

Sophocles Obertas: Hiroshi Kamiya (Japanese); Mike Pollock (English)

Viktor Arthur Volk Estes Tur Zhcted: Katsumi Cho (Japanese); Jim White (English)


Alright, next month, we go back to making it "Freezing". Until then...

Later