Title: Bureaucrat in Another World
I was supposed to have an easy life this time.
Real talk. I am a reincarnator. Now, to others, this may sound like crazy spouting of a man fit for a mental hospital. I would assume the same as well, if I was not a living proof of it.
Although my personal memories of my past life was vague, such as forgetting my name, or the address of where I lived or even the school I went to for highschool. Strangely, information from my past life was strangely clear. Like my physics syllabus from high school and college, advanced mathematics, and even programming and coding from when I worked from that shitty black company before I died. It's like I have a library or a search engine available in my head, which was pretty neat.
Anyways. Reincarnator. Right. So, when I regained the memories of my first life, I was understandably a confused mess. It seemed that I was bedridden with an extremely high fever and was even muttering garbled mess during the whole thing. When I woke up a week later, I was still acclimatizing to my current self's memories, and was unresponsive for the most part.
Well, apparently I won the lottery in life. I'm now in a medieval fantasy born with a copper spoon as Leon, the heir of the Bartfort family, a loyalist to the crown of Holfort. Just a normal noble boy with a penchant for playing with spears in his free time. Definitely not bad, because being a commoner would be really worse, and being a slave is just asking for a new game.
The bad news? I was in the world of the shitty otome game that killed me. Well, not really true? I rushed to clear the game and fell down the stairs due to hunger… man, thinking about it, it's a pretty dumb way to die.
The name Bartfort doesn't ring any bells, so the family should be a mob family. This is definitely a plus, because I really really do not want to involve myself with the game plot. Although as an heir to a Baron, I'd have to attend the Academy. I won't be interacting with the cast though, since it seems I'm older than them by a few years, from what I'd heard from the servants talking.
This would be great, because I want to coast through this time. Just inherit the Head of the House, find a good wife and live the rest of the days relaxing.
An opportunity fell on my lap when my father suddenly called me to his study before my 18th birthday.
"My son." Barcus Fou Bartfort, my father, addressed me. He is a stern man who raised me strictly, and expected nothing but the best out of his spawn. He's more like a trainer than a father, to be honest. I would have broken down if I wasn't a reincarnator, sheesh. "Long before our blood was blue, it flowed red. Our ancestor, Lea of the Fort of Bart, joined the…"
Ah shit, here's his 'family speech' to stroke his ego again. Time to zone out for a bit.
"…and so, my son. Leon. The time has come to answer the generosity that the crown has granted to our humble family." Eh? This seems super important. I focused my attention back to my father, which made him pause, before continuing once again.
"There are movements at the border. The fear that was once invoked by the Kingdom seems to have faded for those hyenas of the North to cause a stir. This is unacceptable. The crown has called us to arms." His father said deeply, his normally implacable eyes displaying a smoldering fury. "Bartfort does not Forget." The maxim of our family was uttered, and a shivered passed me.
"B-Bartfort does not Forget." I replied back. It seems that father is serious, to state the maxim, the pillar of our family's code. "Are you deploying, Father?"
"Yes. As vassals of Holfort, Bartfort has decided to contribute in the elimination of flies that would trouble the King." Ugh, why does Father have such a boner for the King? Blech…
My father locked eyes with me and leaned forward resting the bridge of his nose to his clasped hands. No way…!? An Ikari Gendo pose in an otome game world!? "Leon. Do you want to be a bureaucrat in the capital?" Wait, huh?
"Um, was I not supposed to attend the Academy?" I asked curiously. It was generally and strongly recommended that noble heirs attend the Academy. The option exists as well that they may 'intern' as pencil pushers, but this is generally looked down on in Holfort, as a kingdom founded by adventurers.
"Our family already has me to participate in the military. There is no need for you to step on the battlefield." Is that… concern I hear from my father? Him? The iron-faced guy who can't even emote?
"Please let me think on it for a bit, Father."
"Very well."
Well, now. Let's think about the pros and cons of entering the Academy.
Pros would be that I would be getting a systematic education from learned educators and specialist, especially magic, which I have been playing around with. Another would be I would have people of my age to compete with to hone my skill. Access to the academy-exclusive dungeon to train for live combat. It would also be a great place for making connections for future heads of the houses and potentially having acquaintances with people high up in the noble ranks.
Cons would be that I would be in the vicinity of the game plot, even if I would be a year or two higher. Another is that I would be required to take a wife before graduation, which would be additional stress included to my studies. Those… harlots would have to be pacified, catered to and even pampered which generally sucked all around because you would only have your efforts be trampled on.
Goddamnit, the further I go down the list, the worse it gets. Thinking back on it, attending the academy is unappealing as it gets.
I had already attended schooling in Japan, one of most taxing countries in terms of education. You have the Asian parents stereotype, being 'different' from others is frowned upon, heaps of schoolwork, etc. I'd gone through from grade school to university. That's at least 15 years' worth of education without taking a break, and he took the hell that was postgraduate school that dredged up trauma of sleepless nights, coffee in my blood and hallucination of the not so fun kind.
What about being a bureaucrat?
Not only does it keep me away from responsibility, as a pencil pusher, I'd be safe at the capital. I would also not need to attend schooling anymore, and any knowledge I'd want would be accessible within the Royal Archives and Library of Records. Best of all, I'd be out of the game plot's madness. Also, as a family loyal to the crown, it's likely that I would be assigned a cushy job at the capital.
After reflecting between both, I'd made my choice.
"I shall serve the crown with all my heart."
I prepared myself for the comfortable place father had prepared for me.
Five years have passed.
So, a little recap. The five years… have not been kind. At all.
Remember when I said that being a bureaucrat would be a cushy job? I want to gut my past self and pound his face in.
It was a place where you have no choice but to shed blood and tears, with people bemoaning their fates as slaves (office workers).
Those long arduous years were enough to turn a young and naive 18 year old me into an embittered 23 year old with dreams of retirement.
I wonder if the Academy is still willing to take in a 23 year old student…
Being a bureaucrat would have not been so bad, as I would be primarily expected to deal with paperwork. But the thing is, ALL of the other bureaucrats are fricking nobles that rank higher than my house. As a baron, I'm subject from pressure no matter where, and classism hierarchy is rampant in the palace.
Not only does the higher ups put pressure on me, I have rivals looking for mistakes and push me out of the competition, I also have juniors that try to rise up above their station. It's such a horrible workplace that I'm started thinking that my old black company was actually not that bad.
Initially starting as an 'intern' or an aide for a friend of father's, a count, in the Ministry of Finance. His name is unimportant because he was executed due to embezzling funds. I only escaped suspicion because I only started work three days ago. This is how I learned that noble rank has no agency in this palace.
Due to being associated and having been recommended to my current position by an executed criminal, my nonexistent reputation was stained. My co-workers started a campaign against me, but it's not that bad. They just off-loaded all their work on me and I was unable to see the sunlight for a month due to staying inside the office, haha. It was mostly scut work, and I managed to get the hang of it a few weeks in after changing some processes and operations to make it easier for me. I had to use double-entry bookkeeping to even keep track of everything in the disgusting amount of paper that goes through me.
News of the skirmish in the northern outskirts reached the capital, and it was said that the kingdom was facing severe resistance. I received a letter from father telling me that he apologizes for putting me in the care of such a traitorous snake and to approach Lord Roseblade, Minister of Security and Internal Affairs, if I needed help.
Not gonna lie, I cried for a bit. I was frustrated for a time, and just vented out by practicing with my spear. I always did get refreshed after sweating a bit.
I worked silently while keeping my head down, and somehow got promoted from an aide to an assistant manager. I was assigned under another older Baron that was going to retire. He taught me all the ropes and unwritten rules and even introduced me to the art of tea making before leaving a few months later. Please… take me with you…
A year later, I got promoted after an event. I was suddenly the Head Director (chief slave) of the Ministry of Finance, above all other slaves (office workers) and only under the Minister himself, Earl Bernard Fia Atlee. It was a fricking headache because I suddenly had a whole slew of responsibilities when I was just a grunt a few months back.
Four years as Head Director, and I can't even feel the perks of such a high position. Although I did have subordinates under me, now I have to answer to much higher people on the totem pole and I can feel my stomach cramping a lot these days, haha.
"You're thinking of something stupid again, director." A voice called out to me while I was reminiscing. The paper in my hand was left unattended for quite a bit, so after giving it a skim, I stamped it and put it on my processed file.
"I was not feeling well today, so I was deliberating if I should take a sick leave." I said while continuing with looking after the papers that were meant to go through me. Tch. The only perk that I could feel is that the papers going through me nowadays is 95% less than when I was an aide.
"Not feeling well, sir? Coincidentally, when you have a meeting in an hour with Minister Atlee?" The head manager-cum-secretary-cum-my personal handler asks dubiously, raising a well-manicured eyebrow. Her face would have been pretty if she didn't sneer at me so much.
I gave my best poker face before replying. "Yes. You see lately, I've been my stomach hasn't been working with me. I feel I'd be able to be in prime condition after day of rest or two."
"I doubt that, sir." She replied without hesitation. "You have 10 minutes, by the way." Drats, foiled by her again. Guess I won't be able to go home for the… uh, how long was it now? 52nd consecutive days? Wow, I'll be breaking my best record yet (sob).
I gave a sigh that contained all the vicissitudes of life. "Very well, I'll be preparing to meet the minister now, Manager Wayne. Please hold the fort for me." I got up from my cushy seat and arranged my three-piece suit to appear neat.
"I'll try not to let it burn. Too much, sir." She replied with a sassy smirk. This cheeky girl… she'll be needing a correction sometime soon. I promise it.
I left my office, dread filling me as I walked towards the minister's office.
The Kingdom of Holfort runs with a monarchical government. The King and Queen rule, with the Ministers handling the day to day operations of the Kingdom. Unofficially though, all the Ministers answer to the Queen while the King loafs around. Speaking of Ministers, the Kingdom has six of them.
The Ministry of Finance, handling the flow of money and budgeting of the kingdom, under Earl Bernard Fia Atlee.
The Ministry of Defense and External Affairs, led by Marquis Malcolm Fou Frampton, which tackles the borders of the kingdom and negotiates with diplomatic affairs.
The Ministry of Education and Records, with the Minister also acting as the Principal for the Academy, Earl Connor Fia Hogan. They mostly handle as well the curriculum expected for nobles and censorship for published books used for education.
The Ministry of Security and Internal Affairs, headed by Earl Harold Fou Roseblade, who polices the capital and its vicinity, as well as taking charge of the Royal Guards that protect the Royal Family.
The Ministry of Intelligence by Marquis Keter Fia Marmoria which acts as the eyes and the ears of the Kingdom.
The Ministry of Magic and Arms, which contains the comprehensive strategic might of the kingdom, such as research to tactical class spells, Lost Items and research and development for the next generation of Armors. Lord Fields's family has been the nominal Ministers for generations.
As Ministers, it is not an understatement that they are the backbone of the country. Which is why even though they are subject to intense scrutiny from their peers, they still remain seated due to their prodigious capabilities, immense influence and accountability.
Why am I talking about this? Let me explain. As the Director of the Ministry of Finance, I work and answer directly to Minister Bernard Fia Atlee. Among the four years that I've been under him, there is only one thing I could say about him: He's better off in the military than behind a desk.
Tall. Built like a brick house. And his signature fiery strawberry blonde hair and handlebar mustache. In short? He's fuckin' Escanor. It's a good thing that he doesn't wield an axe blade or else I'd be veeeeeeery far away from Holfort. The two meter mace that he occasionally swings like a baseball bat doesn't relieve me at all though.
As I sat across the Minister's desk, his overt stature looks almost comical when sitting behind it. He was looking over a few paperworks before settling it down and removing the small spectacles he wears.
"Director, it's good to see you." The minister gave a small smile, and I nodded to acknowledge him. "Would you like some refreshments?"
"Thank you, I'd be taking a Darjeeling blend please." Sir Bernard rose from his seat and shuffled to his cabinet, and prepared the tea. Oddly enough, this barbaric looking Earl likes to serve his visitors a drink.
He settled down our drinks and I savored the tea, because I know being called up to the Minister's Office isn't anything good. Damn, the Earl definitely shouldn't be able to brew a tea this good looking like that. We made some small talk until the tea was consumed.
"Now, on to business." The Earl started and his pleasant demeanor earlier changed to the man who stood head and shoulders above his peers as the Minister of Finance. "I have good news and bad news for you, Director. Which would you like to hear first?"
Ah crud, this definitely ain't good. Usually, the Minister's definition of good news doesn't mean it's necessarily be a good news for the recipient. But still… "Please go with the good news first."
"Well, first of all, I'd heard through the grapevine that you wanted to attend the Academy." I feel myself blush a bit in embarrassment. Goddamnit! I told you that while drunk, Manager! I'll remember this… "Well, I've been told that you would be granted the chance to attend. And your request for leave from the Ministry has been granted as well."
This… is this for real…? Ah, are my dreams coming true? This is great! But, wait…
I looked at the Minister suspiciously. "And the bad news is?"
The Minister cleared his throat, ignoring my gaze. "Do you recall that the heirs of the Five Founding Families would be attending the Academy this school year?" I do. After all, they are a part of the game plot of this shitty world.
"Yes. Rumors have been circulating already, and the most common one being a foretelling of a golden generation for Holfort again." Internally, I scoffed. As a man this high up in the Kingdom, I've met the heirs even in passing. I gave them the benefit of the doubt since they are real people in real life, not lines of codes in a game. Still, I've found them lacking.
"Yes, eyes have been gathering and ears have perked up. Still, there has been a new development." I felt a chill pass through me, even though the Minister was still talking cordially. "You see, the Academy has been pushing recently for a more receptive environment, and has now, this year, decided to implement their new policy of accepting any students, regardless of their background."
The Earl paused, before pouring more tea for us. "As part of this policy, a commoner has been endorsed and accepted to test the waters to accommodate this change." I recalled this being part of the lore for the game. Otherwise it wouldn't make sense for a commoner to be in a noble's school. "And with this new policies, three persons of interests have expressed their desire to enroll this year in the Academy." Oh no…
"First would be Sir Anton Del Repard, cousin of the Her Highness the Queen, who wishes to visit his aunt, as well as learn from Holfortan culture and strengthen the ties between our countries." Ok, not that bad.
"Next is Lord Serge Sara Rault, the next heir to the Rault House of the Alzer Republic. He is said to have been an aspiring adventurer with experience under his belt and wishes to learn from the Kingdom of Adventurers." Crud.
"Lastly is Lord Kurt Lux Erzeberg, the third in line for the Empire's throne. Officially, he wishes to attend the Academy and make a name for himself. Unofficially, he was cast away from the battle for the throne, and he has seeked asylum with enrolling in the Academy as the pretense."
F*ck. This was not in the otome game plot at all…!? You'd think that something this significant would be mentioned, but I don't ever recall anything about it. Is this some goddamn DLC or something after my death?
"Of course their respective countries have tried to persuade them out of going to the Academy, but the three were pretty forceful and requested to join this year. Currently, the Kingdom has been kicked into a frenzy. We cannot reject them for no good reason or risk a diplomatic incident, which is why we had to accept them."
"The three countries expressed their desire to send an escort detail inside the Academy to protect their respective lieges, but Holfort rejected them because this would be a major security breach. Their lieges also wish to live normally whilst in the Academy, which is why we were able to persuade them out of sending in their escort details. They agreed with remaining in the vicinity of the Academy, but conveyed their communicated their worries, which is understandable." True. Their lieges were stubborn to deny them their jobs to protect them.
"The three convoys have compromised and was able to reach an agreement with the Kingdom." The Minister paused his explanation and I was able to notice something. His face which was usually one of composure or an affable one, had now looked apologetic. No… don't do this to me…!
"They wanted someone to monitor their lieges and we presented candidates as possible minders. Among the sixty-four personnel the one selected was... you."
I dropped my façade as my face fell into my hands. "So my vacation and attending the academy…?"
"You'll be on indefinite leave from the Minister of Finance during the duration of their stay in the Kingdom, which would be a three years. You'll be entered as a consultant and inspector for the Academy." The Minister looked more apologetic, and I almost pitied him. Almost.
"Fuck." I cursed out loudly. Man, a drag would be appreciated right about now. "So I'll be babysitting a bunch of self-entitled royal brats? For three goddamned years?"
"I would not put it so crudely but essentially, yes."
Fuck my life.
The next thing I knew, I was in front of my office door after trudging aimlessly. I was expected to depart immediately and set off to the Academy by the morrow to settle down before officially starting my duties as a glorified babysitter.
I opened the door and was immediately greeted by the Manager's smiling face and a rain of confetti.
""""Congratulation on attending the Academy!"""" In my office, the usually dour and simple room was now decorated ready for a party. Some tasteful ornaments along with a banner saying "Academy at Age 23" was hung proudly at one wall. I found as well that not only the Manager, but all three of my Officers were here, completing the Staff of Finance.
Manager Carla Fou Wayne, my right-hand man, my secretary and my closest confidant smiled prettily. "Director, I know you always wanted to attend the Academy, so I congratulate you!" She said wholeheartedly and stabbed me in the back, unknowingly. The thing about clumsy nice girls is that they can do the maximum damage with minimal effort on their part.
A snickering man approached while sweeping his hair back. Rick Fou Astley looked like a typical playboy, even though he's actually an Officer. "Director, I've heard the news! A vacation with your dream coming true? Why I'd be jealous… pfft...! Ahaha, I can't…" He continued to wheeze in the background, before being slapped by the only other female staff, Rene Fia Giger. The last of my Officer, Krieg Fou Humphrey, a man who looked more like a certain dragon yakuza was expertly cutting separating portions of food while readying some wine.
I am not in the mood to celebrate though. I scowled hard at Rick, before giving a smirk. "If you're so happy, then I guess you wouldn't mind to solicit the Black Duke." I pettily shot back. Soliciting the Black Duke was one of the top undesirable task in the Finance. To punctuate it, everyone shivered in dread, while Rick's face paled noticeably.
"Director! Lord! Master! Please, anything but that!" He begged pitifully, but I'm all out of sympathy.
"It's that time of the year, and unfortunately, I have to choose who to send." I gave him a gentle smile, all the while Rick sweating it out was all the revenge I could want. For now.
Don't think I forgot about you, Carla…!
Afterwards, I proceeded to drink myself to pass out, and it seems I succeeded this time, because I have no memories of what happened next. Manager Carla was strangely unable to look me in the eye.
I had a few minutes before my airship to the Academy leaves. I set off to the gardens and sat at a nearby bench positioned near a bush wall, enjoying the tranquility before the inevitable chaos in the future.
A moment later, I heard shuffling noises at the other side.
"Are you leaving?"
"Unfortunately."
"Please make sure to not be too foolhardy."
"I'll try." I smiled wryly at the chiding. "Will you be fine without me?"
"…I'll endure."
"I'll make sure to visit when I'm free."
"…I'll be waiting!" The voice was definitely livelier now, and it put a smile on my face.
"I'm off. See ya."
"Take care."
I was able to settle down and unpack my items at the room provided to me yesterday. I feel sorry for them apologizing to me when they said they couldn't provide a better room. It's frankly fine for me, since I've slept in worse conditions.
I also met the Vice-Principal yesterday, and he helped me acclimatize yesterday by guiding me through the records of the Academy. It seems that the Principal was currently in Repard in discussion with them? News to me.
Now, I was waiting for the Prince Julius' welcoming address for the school year as the freshman representative together with the staff in a darkened section of the stage. I was trying my best to refrain from yawning, but I hear them asking about who I am. It's understandable though, as I am practically a stranger here and I was not introduced to the faculty yet.
"…hope to live a normal life in the Academy, devoid of ranks and nobilities. And may there be no outside influence to pressure any student for their studies. That would be all, thank you." I scoffed. This big hypocrite. His words cannot be taken seriously, and I doubt everyone will follow the spirit of his 'decree'. I don't doubt that he would be the one exerting his 'princeliness' whenever it suits him.
"Thank you to Sir Julius for that wonderful speech." Man, the Vice-Principal sure is experienced at boot-licking. Look at him still being politely servile while not addressing the Prince by his proper title. And look at that guy, eating it all up. Seems like the VP's stock rose for the prince.
"For our last entry, this year, the Kingdom has seen it fit to dispatch someone from the palace to act as a consultant and staff for the Academy. Please welcome Sir Leon Fou Bartfort."
Fuck!? Why is everyone backstabbing me nowadays?
Immediately after the Prince's speech, the usual happened. The girls swooned about his gracefulness and charm, the boys crooned at the harder year where they have to compete with the royal entourage for the girl's attention which they most expectedly will lose, while the higher nobles heirs dissected the prince's words and how to benefit or not cross lines they were not supposed to.
Olivia, however, was completely clueless. She just saw the guy, who she passingly met in the walkway after being brushed away by a small girl, and he was supposed to be the Crown Prince too! While she would do without being rudely shoved, she felt relief that she did not get the attention or rather offend someone so high up on her first day of school.
She was still thanking her lucky stars when she caught the tail end of the fuddy duddy that was now on stage was saying. "-lcome Sir Leon Fou Bartfort."
Shortly after, it was as if time paused when the surroundings went from the buzzing students to as quiet as a church sermon on worship day. She looked around and saw that some people looked astonished while some anxious. She was going to ask what's the matter to the girl with hoop hairs beside her that reminded her of that bread she ate in her hometown, but she was interrupted.
Clack. Clack. Clack.
It was faint, but she could hear it in the near silence of the auditorium. It was a rhythmic sound that seemingly caught her attention no matter what. She felt the other's tension rise beside her, and she got a bit nervous as well. It was only a few moments later that she put a name to whatever was coming from.
It was the sound of heel striking on the wooden stage. The spacing between the previous sound and the next was spaced out equally, as if the one walking does not tolerate the slightest deviancy. The figure approached the podium, and Olivia couldn't help but compare the manthat stood there.
The prince had an elegance to him that he projects outwardly, with a smile on his face that serve to make him friendly. His innocent looks make him look trustworthy and his demeanor just as dashing.
The man though, was entirely different beast. He had sharp looks, and his suit was draped over his body deliciously, hinting of a well-trained body forged from discipline, but not overly bulky like some of the uncles in her town. He sharp eyes regarded the audience with a slight frown as if to show his disapproval.
This was a man, nay… a male that dominated with his presence alone. Everyone was forced to submit through his gaze and none had the capacity to defy him. If he were ever to ask anything dastardly of her… Olivia knew that she would not be able to resist, at all.
"Students." He started, with a voice that instantly pervaded her brain and demand nothing but her total attention and she obeyed. "In this hallowed halls, you are present as the next generation of Holfort's finest. But I do not believe it to be so. To me, you are all untested and naïve children that know nothing. Birds that only ever know the gilded cage they've lived in after bring fed and watered, like pets." While others were outraged at his words that denied their hardwork and pains as heirs, Livia was having… certain fantasies on the spot.
She, with a pained expression locked in a cage, while her limbs were shackled with chains that jingled every time she moved, which served as a reminder. Her owner, her master, looking at her as she struggled, writhing for his amusement. Pet.
"Show me what you can accomplish. I will weigh it. Show me excellence. I shall measure it. You have four years to prove your worth. I will be waiting." With his challenge issued, his sharp eyes regarded them scornfully which sent shivers down their spine, with Olivia's being a different kind. He left with the same calm staccato of steps, and after he was out of view, the atmosphere in the auditorium seemed to ease a lot as everyone breathed in relief.
"The Lion, is here." Someone whispered fearfully, which seemed to trigger a new round of silence. Being clueless, she tried to be silent as she perked her ears to listen to whatever she could gather.
"He is as oppressive as Father said he was." A young man said as he rubbed his arms, seemingly to drive away some chills.
"I thought the Queen has him locked in the palace, to be called upon again in dire… Why is he out?" A snobby girl demanded from her retinue, which seemed to be just as clueless as she was.
It seemed they were dismissed already by the Vice-Principal, but no one seemed to be in the mood to go away yet, too scared to meet with The Lion before he's truly away.
From what Olivia has gathered, it was mostly hearsay, but she was able to confirm a few facts: His name was Leon Fou Bartfort, a recently awarded Viscount. He was one of the fastest to rise in the palace from the last couple of decades, and has also had a high rank in the court politics seemingly only under one of the Ministers. It was said that he eliminated all his rivals to get his position, but this was unconfirmed. He also had a bad reputation amongst the ladyfolk, as a womanizer who took young ladies he fancies, never to be seen again.
There were a lot of rumors, but Olivia is nothing but determined to find out more! …After freshening up, of course…
Sometime in the future…
"I am… sorely disappointed with you, Your Highness and friends." Leon said sadly, as he regarded the royal entourage and the foreign princes. They were such good boys to, eager to learn and willing to work hard. But… it seems they were too young, led astray by the matters of the heart. He looked back behind him, Angelica sobbing quietly with Olivia offering a shoulder.
"I… apologize for my harsh words." The prince, looking suitably chastised, shuffled his feet.
"I am not the one you should give that apology to, Your Highness." Leon gestured to the lady behind him, who seemed to have regained a bit of her composure, but with tears still streaming on her cheeks.
"I am sorry Angelica. But I truly love Marie, and I cannot bear to part with her. Stand down, or I will be forced to confront you." Julius said resolutely, with the four heirs and the three princes standing behind him, shielding the petite girl they love.
"Do you truly… hate me that much?" Angelica choked a sob, as more tears streamed. "Is there really no other way?"
"I… cannot love you, truly. I'm sorry." Julius kneeled before Marie and offered to take her glove and she acquiesced. The prince threw down the white glove at Angelica's feet, which indicated a challenge for a duel of honor. "Let's settle this cleanly. The eight of us stand as champions for Marie's cause."
Angelica hesitated, warring with the decision of her heart and her logic. Locked in indecision, a brusque hand picked up the glove for her. Looking over, she saw Sir Leon holding it with a bitter smile.
"-lene will hate me for this…" She heard him whisper something, but not sure what. "I shall stand as Lady Redgrave's champion." He declared.
"Instructor… are you truly going against us?"
"If I must. You have all been very naughty. A round of correction will suffice. All eight of you against little ol' me at the same time. Will you accept?"
"Instructor, while we know you are capable, do not underestimate what the three of us are capable of."
"You'll need all the handicap you could get, boys. So, do you all agree?"
"Very well, we shall have an honor duel against you, Sir Leon, eight against one as per agreement. We shall have duel by Armor and wea-"
Angelica did not bother listening anymore, as she felt hollow inside. All her efforts were rendered useless. Everything she ever wanted and worked for 10 years was snatched by a girl who looked like she was not even out of puberty. It was very frustrating, so much that she wanted to destroy something. She grabbed the nearest object, but she was stopped by a tight grip.
She awoke from her dismal haze, and found that she's now in Sir Leon's office. It was already deep into the night, and she was still wearing her gown. Tea had been set in front of her, but it was already cold.
"My Lady, please calm yourself." Sir Leon implored, sitting in front of her with a few paperworks set aside.
Angelica's anger deflated and she was left to her depressing thoughts. Leon, satisfied with her not lashing out had eased his grip but he was halted by Angelica holding his cuffs with her dainty fingers.
"Sir Leon, am I truly that unappealing?" Angelica asked weakly, her eyes wet.
Leon smiled wryly. He had no experience comforting crying women. Still he will be damned to try. He sat himself on the other side of the loveseat Angelica had taken, with her still gripping his cuffs. He decided to be blunt. "No, you are not. Angelica, frankly, you are one of the most beautiful girl I have the pleasure of meeting."
"B-But…! His Highness fell for someone else!" She sobbed, but didn't let more tears fall. Her grip pulled on his arm, but he let it be. "I tried, so so hard. To be a woman worthy of him! I endured my lessons so I could be with him! I wanted nothing else but to be able to have the right to stand beside him…! And yet! It seems I was only deluding myself…"
Leon shook his head. "It was simply a series of unfortunate events. But know this, Angelica. I, myself, witnessed your efforts. I have watched you better yourself every day. I have watched you toil to meet the heavy expectations set upon your shoulders. I have watched you be the best version of yourself. To me… you are worthy. Even if the prince may never be your husband, I envy whoever would become yours, for he will be a lucky man."
Angelica was silent and kept her head down, but he could visibly see her ears reddening. She was still keeping his cuff in a tight grip, but that's fine. She needs all the support she could to get through this. Hmm, mission accomplished?
As Leon pat himself for a job well done, he felt a gentle force shove him and he found himself laying down on the loveseat. Angelica had now mounted him, with her eyes gleaming a beautiful ruby red. "Sir Knight. It still hurts me deeply, right here." Her hand placed above her heart, she implored to him. Her voice was different though, a little bit more coquettish… "Please help me forget." A strap of her dress came undone.
Leon's sharp mind failed him this very moment and he acted more on instinct to stop her. "P-Please wait, Lady Angelica! You are currently distressed and not of the right mind! Please reconsider!"
"Are you, too… rejecting me…?" She was once again looking like she might cry. Leon swallowed, asking how this series of events will affect everything.
If he rejects her, she will inevitably lead herself to a path of self-destruction. She may become more unstable, causing her to lash out and maybe even commit terrible mistakes.
If he does though, he may be able to comfort her for a while, but he is effectively seducing the fiancé of the crown prince, which are sufficient grounds to have heads flying. Not only that, the Red Duke will be hunting him down vigorously.
For Saint's sake, he had only tried to assist wherever he could. But the choices he is locked into are bad either way. He'll be damned if did, and damned if he don't.
Fuck.
Indeed.
A/N: Welcome to the 5th installment of the A Mob's Story! I tried to rush this out as thanks for the 50+ faves and follows from fans of the series. Thank you for liking what I write.
Please do try to leave a review, I like reading through them. I'll be answering them all below.
Took a bit longer than expected as real life responsibilities have been my priority for a while, but I managed to write this up during some of my down times. Now, if the premise seems familiar, it's actually a nod to the KR novel [A Civil Servant in a Romance Fantasy]. Give it a read, tis pretty good.
I also forgot to mention, but please know that my one-shots are available for adoption! If you would like to continue them, just drop me a DM and I'll reply as soon as fastest. I'll also put this on the synopsis to reflect it.
Now for some bullet points regarding the story that have not been answered because I had no time to incorporate them into the story and it would just bloat this into a series.
1. First off, Leon's family is more relevant, as they are peripheral court nobles. Leon is also older than the cast by 5 whole years, which is why he has a boatload of back story to get through. His family is loyal to the crown, no visible mother figure and no siblings.
2. Leon was sent to the palace as an aide, to prevent him from enlisting at the military when there is a war going on at the borders. The palace politics was no better because he was trading enemies and bullets for snakes and backstabbing. He got quickly desensitized as it was not so different from his previous black company but worse since he is handling affairs spanning the whole country.
3. Leon got proficient in handling the Kingdom's finance because he wishes to optimize and therefore lighten the work because everyone in his department offloaded everything to him. He introduced double entry bookkeeping and just wrote whatever he found at the documents which inevitably brought up more embezzlement cases, the worse being the Offrey House was funding pirates. An Earl house was destroyed that day and it was not publicized because it was such a stain towards the Holfort nobles.
3a. Leon was able to save Carla Fou Wayne and her House from being implicated, but he does not really know it. She now works under him loyally.
3b. Together, the five of them are known as the Demon Lord of Finance and his Four Pillars, because they can destroy a noble house just by sitting at the palace which earned them their infamy.
4. Leon attained his higher position in the Ministry because he not only had contributed when Fanoss invaded the capital when they were distracted during the war, all his other co-workers were summarily executed, with him being an aide was spared.
4a. There was mentions of a Black Duke… this is Hertrude. They were forced to surrender after Leon crippled Vandel, and was once again part of Holfort. She's currently plotting… something.
5. With Leon being in a position this high up, there is no reason for him to go to the Academy just to monitor the game plot. A suitable reason had to be conjured, and so having foreign heirs attend would be sufficient to kick him back to the Academy as their babysitters.
5a. The three are supposed to be a DLC package that was released a few months after JP Leon's death. JP Marie was able to clear it on her own, to honor her brother.
5b. Kurt and Anton are both OCs to make up for the numbers. I'd think Serge attending at Holfort is logical, as he is an aspiring adventurer and there's a country of adventurers nearby.
6. Leon's speech is not just to challenge the student body. It's also as a strong but subtle reminder to be in their best behavior because they have foreign heir this year.
7. I just imagined Olivia being down horrendous for an older and gruff Leon and decided to go with it. Thoughts?
8. Honor duel again, but this time, there's eight of them. Goddamnit, Marie. You were only supposed to wreck the kingdom. This is gonna go international.
9. I'd imagine Angelica capable of the last scene at her lowest point, especially when Leon's been so supportive of her.
9a. I forgot to add, but Leon and Angie are aware of each other before the Academy. Leon was still an aide at 18, while Angie was still learning under the queen at 13, so his words are not false.
9b. Mylene… well, I have a plot for her too. Just didn't have it added. Let's just say it mirrors a certain Knight of the Lake and his Queen.
QnA Section
I read through the reviews and was able to gather motivation to write some more thanks to you guys! Welp, time to answer some!
Chapter 1 Reviews
noisymatchstar, Rodvek97, UnP – I… honestly did not think about this one at all, haha! Having a proto-Mylene as Leon/Rio's love interest, or rather their pre-reincarnation would have been a great way to continue this one, honestly. It would be really interesting to see how this goes, with Leon/Rio creating Luxion from scratch.
Pembaca Sampah – I had a brainfart on that, sorry! I was supposed to refer to Shiosato Jun-sensei as illustrator/mangaka. Thank you for the correction, and yes, that is indeed the illustration I was referring to. Also, yes. Noelle is my top girl. I just had a great time reading her and Leon's chemistry in the novel. She really had the main heroine vibe going for her.
Itsuki Minami1 – Thank you! And yes, I do feel more than a few liking the Warlord path Leon. And about that, well…
Chapter 2 Reviews
Rodvek97, Dragon Blaze-X – Thank you!
UA1991, Tanya von Degurechaff , Rubicon373– I had planned to have the capture targets be 'reformed' of their flaws by playing games, but get addicted to playing too much, haha! Luxion's endgame is indeed something of the sort, but he'll also be implanting ideas to the New Humans
Kian Xki – I'm of the idea that since the males are unavailable to women since they are too busy playing, then they would decide to try it for themselves and discover that they have a whole boatload of fantasy world all for theirselves. Where they can be queens of their realms (Crusader Kings?), a peerless warrior or mage (Ragnarok?) or something of the sort. I do think that releasing famous series for the Kingdom would be hilarious, and the people trying to imitate it instead was able to reform them better.
hunter81095 - That is the case for this Leon, yes ;P
Chapter 3 Reviews
IsekaiFanBoi, Guest, Dragon Blaze-X, Zero, Rodvek97, UchihaMadara270 – Funny you guys said that, hehe…
Guest, Tanya von Degurechaff – Correct! Jenna is instrumental to the Bartfort's demise which is where most of Leon's anguish will be pointed at.
Chapter 4 Reviews
Sekiryutei Issei Hyoudou, Dragon Blaze-X, Dinobotrex – Thank you!
ThePizziaMan – Indeed she is! I really like her so you'd see some bias in my stories regarding her, but I like the other casts as well, so I try to make them equal.
noisymatchstar – When he got teleported out of Alzer, he was too disoriented and didn't have a goal until he received his past life memories. He was only an adventurer and didn't have any connection to the Bartforts at this time. Also, I'd think that Leon Sara Rault and Leon Fou Bartfort are connected with each other. It's been hinted back in the LN when Leon was able to answer Louise's promise with her brother, so it's not far off that even Leon Sara Rault could be also a reincarnation of Lea. Sorry for any confusion that I was not able to clarify.
Guest – Thanks! Now I understand why you think so, but please know that Angelica is from the game timeline where Olivia became the Saintess. Now that she knows that Olivia is not the one gathering the Founding Heirs, she had adapted her plans because right now? Olivia is an unaffiliated and unremarkable commoner, not the Saintess yet. She could become another talent for the Redgraves, but Olivia quickly outgrew her expectations and the ending is now Olivia has her own faction.
Itsuki Minami1, MasterBlade47, Pembaca Sampah – Haha, glad you like them. And it is indeed Shuraba! I really wanted to see what happens when 3 cheaters are suitably motivated, and they have the same interests too (get hitched with Leon). Sparks will indeed fly, or a massive empire will be built with Leon at the center LMAO. Imagine him being clueless and ruling a superpower matching Arcadia's.
A/N #2: Please consider writing more reviews in the future, even criticism or tell me what you liked about the story. I read them and it gives me motivation to continue writing.
Now, I currently have two one-shots in the works. Or rather a one-shot and a continuation. Due to popular demand, I decided to expand on Mob to Warlord for its second part! I'll try to keep to the theme of 'Code Geass' as some of you have referred to it.
Next on the sixth installment, the plot would be about Leon's family being the actual secret protectors for Holfort. Elevator Pitch: Throughout generations, the Bartforts remember their promise to the girl and her five companions. Thus, their duty is now passed on for young Leon to bear.
