A Vulpine Spanner in the Works
Chapter 57: Getting Hammered in More Ways Than One
[Unknown]
I was in the process of utterly panicking from what I was witnessing. Originally, being assigned to maintain a vigilant watch over the Hero's Respite for the Princess was a simple and dull affair since nothing of major note ever occurred within the establishment. Besides the minor bar fights that ended just as quickly as they started, all had been calm.
Then, today, Thor of all people in the Ten Realms showed up with some human mage in tow. Why in Helheim was the God of Thunder in this Realm?!
I had to learn more, but at the same time, I was utterly terrified of the Thunderer being somehow angered if he discovered my presence. This was an utter disaster in the making that I was completely unequipped to handle on my lonesome. Most confusingly was why the Thunderer was even here in the first place?
This Realm should still be relatively unknown to most other entities of the other Nine Realms, so how did Thor find out? Could there be some sort of leak of information that had somehow gotten out? That was horrifying to think of.
Carefully, I watched Thor as he went inside the tavern and started off simply eating some food and guzzling down drink after drink. Eventually, this changed as Thor started attracting other tavern patrons to his merriment with free drink. And from there, it took less than 20 more minutes before the entire tavern was a raucous of cheering.
And in the middle of it all, Thor was laughing away as he spoke of bawdy tales from his prior adventures. That, or he asked the bartender about the Princess in between his drinking activities.
Princess Kashia needed to know about this immediately as this was a situation beyond anything that she's dealt with before. I could only pray to Lady Inari that Thor wouldn't go into a fit of violence or some other such action, otherwise this city was liable to be leveled.
Why did this have to happen now?!
[Kashia]
I was pleased to watch the progress that Tuare and Nero were making in their magic training as Ninya continued practicing her spells. The longer the training went on, the closer the pair got to casting their first spells. Once that was completed, I'd likely call the training trip over, sending Nero back with a book of spells to continue honing his skills with while Ninya, Tuare, Lukrut, Saizo, and I would head back to E-Rantel.
Though, I probably would help Ninya stay in contact with Nero since, from what I've seen and been told, the pair have become good friends. After all, I've heard quite a bit about their late-night walks through the palace halls. It was nice to know that Ninya has someone her own age to connect with.
But aside from training, there were some other things of important note that had occurred. For one; the addition of the Dragon Tusk lizardman tribe to Haven-Lake was meant that three of the five tribes had now joined my settlement. On top of that, 'Princess' Renner's recent food distribution was a massive success with the people of the Re-Estize. That was just one more step to her ascension to the throne.
The next matter of importance that a few of my servants had brought up to me was the growing number of travelers to my palace, both now and in the future. A few kitsune felt it prudent if we paved a few roads through the forest, with one to the Baharuth and the other to the Re-Estize. That way, travel could be made faster for any who wished to come. In addition to this, there would need to be guards posted at these roads to ensure safe travel from any monsters that roamed Tob.
I gave the go-ahead for any of our builders to begin work on this project. It would be too useful for the future to be put off. Though, I was hoping that one day, I could have permanent teleportation gates set up that could hasten travel across the forest along with connecting Haven-Lake to the palace. The convenience would be beyond helpful.
It was as I continued to watch my students hard at work that I found myself receiving an unexpected communication from one of my servants in E-Rantel. 'Princess Kashia, I have some news to inform you of.' Hanzo spoke to me with a [Message]. He was a kitsune I had set to watching Iselk's estate to ensure that everything of the former leader's possessions were being given out. He had also been partnered with another kitsune named Kamina in this duty.
'Go ahead and let me hear it.' I mentally answered back. I would assume that Iselk would've been bereft of his properties and possessions by now. Was he just letting me know that said process has concluded?
'The former count, Iselk, is currently a homeless vagrant on the streets. He has completed his assigned task of entering poverty.' Being told this brought a smirk to my face. He would have a long life full of hardship after all of this, and it pleased me to hear.
'But,' that stopped my train of thought as I wondered if something had gone wrong. 'Iselk ended up giving his titles and properties to a young noble that arrived a few days back.'
'What noble? I feel like I should be concerned.'
'The only concern you should have, your Highness, is how quickly this kid might screw up. He is a noble in the loosest sense of the word. Kid arrived with a letter for Iselk, completely oblivious of its contents.' The laughter following this was palpable, making me now more curious instead of worried.
'What was in the letter that was so amusing?' I questioned.
'Well, to give the short of it, the letter was from the kid's father begging Iselk to get rid of the brat for being an incompetent idiot. And from what I've seen, that description is quite apt. The idiot couldn't get the hint that his father wanted him dead from all the hinderances that his father foisted upon him. Brat's beyond lucky to somehow have made it to E-Rantel without any sense of survival or the ability to manage his supplies.'
That was uniquely hilarious. I found myself giggling at the thought of a noble brat getting a taste of the real world. Wish it had happened more often on Earth considering how entitled both the rich executives and their kids tended to be. I remember one of those kids making my life miserable because he wouldn't take no for an answer.
'So, you're just planning to keep an eye on him for now?' While I didn't have any real issue with Hanzo and Kamina monitoring this newly-made count, I'd prefer to understand why they were doing so.
'With how incompetent and simple this kid is, I felt that it would be a good idea to manipulate him to your advantage. As such, I easily convinced the brat that I had been Iselk's second in command and would aid him in running his estate. Kamina and I even roped a few others into working for the kid and fixing up the estate.'
I gave a snort of amusement at the thought. The kid was being completely herded in by a bunch of kitsune posing as his servants. Though, I did see the appeal of having another noble under my thumb.
'There is one small caveat, your Highness…'
'Go on.'
'The brat is hosting a feast tonight to celebrate his new position, and has invited as many high-ranking nobles in the city as he could to attend. Sorry to say, but your name is on the guest list.' My eyes widened at being told this.
'What do you mean "I'm on the guest list"?!' I could already feel the absolute headache of having to attend another one of those parties of blue-bloods.
'The brat learned of your presence and status in the city from one of the other nobles and just had to invite you. I'm sorry, your Highness.' Hanzo's apologetic tone made me quickly reply.
'You don't need to feel sorry, Hanzo. It's just bad luck for me. I'll make certain to attend tonight. Is there anything specific that I have to be aware of?' While asking that question, I was already going through the idea of what I'd be wearing for this damn feast.
Probably something similar to what I wore at the Mayor's. Maybe change it up a bit so that I don't appear tacky to the other members of nobility? God, I really hate how much I have to think about the outfits I wear to these events.
At least, back on Earth, I'd only need to own a single dress for special occasions that I wouldn't end up judged for. After all, when everyone is on the verge between poverty and destitute, then no one would question why you only had one set of fancy clothes.
But here? If nobles see you wearing the same clothes that were seen from prior events, they'd start making assumptions, and I definitely didn't need that right now. Also, as the Princess for the Realm of Foxes, I needed to represent my mother's homeland properly.
But before that, another thought crossed my mind. 'Hanzo, how is this brat affording such a feast? I would've assumed that Iselk had given everything else of his possessions and riches away.'
'And that's where the incompetence comes in. Brat has no real concept of money and cost. He just assumes that there's money laying around to be spent. As such, a few of us had to do some quick hunting to bring some food for the feast, and utilize spells like [Create Item] to give the estate the appearance of wealth. I hope you like wild boar.'
Wow, even more incompetent than I could imagine. 'Great. I'll leave everything up to you as I can see how much of a headache this brat is going to be. You have my sympathy.'
'Thank you for your kind words, your Highness. But it's not as bad considering how entertaining this kid is. I'll inform you of any changes before you arrive.' With this, Hanzo ended his communication and I was left to consider the new event that I would have to attend. I hope that Lukrut didn't have anything else planned for tonight since I was not going to this feast of the insufferably rich alone.
Just as I continued to ruminate in my thoughts, I received another communication alert soon after, making my eye start twitching in annoyance. What the hell was going on today that made it so everyone was contacting me at once?
With a deep breath, I finally answered the [Message]. 'Princess, there is an issue that needs your immediate attention!' Hiruzen's [Message] echoed in my mind, filling me with concern.
'What happened?' I mentally questioned as my mind went through any number of potential outcomes that could lead to my servant's announcement.
'Thor Odinson is at the Hero's Respite!' My eyes widened and my jaw began to drop. Holy shit! Why was Thor here?!
'What is he doing right now?' I quickly asked as I was already preparing to head back to E-Rantel immediately.
'Honestly, your Highness? It appears that the God of Thunder is just drinking and eating. Other than this, I'm not certain on his reason for being here.' Hiruzen's words gave me pause as I considered what I should do.
'Have you managed to hear anything of what he's said or seen what he's done so far since he arrived there?'
'He's only asked a few questions about you. The rest of the time he's talked about old tales of his adventures, getting the human that accompanied him into the tavern to eat and drink, and has been getting every other human in the Hero's Respite drunk since he's been graciously paying for free drinks.' Okay, not as bad as I thought, but still…
'I'll be coming by as soon as possible. Make certain to keep yourself safe and out of Thor's sight,' I mentally commanded, preparing myself for the upcoming shitshow that I'd have to deal with.
"Alright, you three," I called out to my students who stopped what they were doing and looked to me. "I'm going to have to leave you alone for a bit due to an event that has just popped up in E-Rantel."
"What's going on, mom?" Ninya asked me with concern.
"I'm not certain. That's why I have to go and find out. It shouldn't take that long," I said in an attempt to counter Ninya's worries. They didn't need to know that another god, one from the other Realms, has just arrived in the city. I especially didn't need them to know that he was a being who I wasn't confident in being able to take on or defeat.
It was one thing to be fighting a programmed boss from a video game who followed patterns and set rules and limits. It was another thing entirely to fight an actual god who had millennia of combat experience to fall back on.
"Do you think you'll need help?" I shook my head at the question.
"Not really. This should be pretty simple. I'll return soon." That was the hope, at least.
After teleporting to an alley, I quickly started buffing myself with a few spells as a precaution before I made my way out and towards the Hero's Respite with a mixture of fear and worry in my heart. I remember fighting Thor's boss battles in YGGDRASIL with unpleasant memories of the encounters.
Compared to a few other bosses in the game, Thor was an annoying matchup that I didn't enjoy dealing with. Despite his few magical attacks involving lightning magic, the God of Thunder was a mostly melee focused opponent — well, melee when it mattered for my resistances — which was murder for me since I had a melee weakness, even if the defensive power of my tails are quite high and could take a few good hits.
The worst part about fighting him was also due to essentially fighting two bosses in one. There was Thor, who would throw lightning or chase his target down, typically by rushing at them like a divine bullet train or turning into lightning and teleporting upon them. From there, he'd beat the ever-loving shit out of whatever unlucky bastard had grabbed his aggro.
Then, there was his hammer, Mjolnir. It could act independently of Thor, and while it couldn't teleport, it could very easily chase down opponents and bash them to pieces. The worst part is that Mjolnir was unable to be damaged or destroyed, so you'd constantly have to be on the run since you couldn't retaliate against the damn hammer.
Well, Players could once retaliate by opening up a portal in front of the hammer and teleporting it to a different Realm of YGGDRASIL. But since the devs didn't enjoy how Players were just cheesing the fight, they made it so that Mjolnir would teleport itself into Thor's hand if it was taken too far away from the red-bearded bastard.
I don't know if the same could be said about the actual Thor, but I'd probably guess that to be the case as well. Or something else of a similar nature. There's no doubt that, for the real Thor at least, many enemies have probably thought of the same idea for untold millennia. So, Thor must have a way to counter it.
My next problem came in the form of what may happen if Thor decided to pick a fight with me here, in the heart of the city. Were this just the game, I'd just ignore the collateral damage and drop a bunch of powerful spells on his head, probably even using the Seed of Yggdrasil to buff one of the spells.
Yet, this wasn't a game, it was a real city, one that I had grown to care about that was full of innocent bystanders who could be caught in the crossfire of a fight between two gods. I had to be extremely cautious and hopefully not provoke him to become hostile.
If he did turn murderous, I had to either teleport us both out of the city — if possible — or try to lead him out and away from the city with the least amount of collateral damage possible. Either way, this wasn't going to be good for me in the slightest.
Please, don't let this go tits-up.
Arriving at the entrance to the Hero's Respite, I could already hear the loud and rowdy voices of the patrons from within. Of them, I heard the voice of Thor, one I was familiar with because of his voiceline he'd always say before starting his boss battle.
'The God of Thunder shall be your opponent today! Taste Mjolnir's fury!' This was only made worse whenever he dealt critical damage or killed me since he'd then taunt with, 'Barely even a warmup!'
"—oing little wizard! Your count is at four! Make your ancestors proud with five!" As Thor said this, I stepped inside to see the god, along with most of the other patrons in the tavern, all surrounding a table where a man in a blue robe sat chugging down a tankard of ale. I could see three other tankards beside him on the table, and from the way the man was wobbling in his seat, he was probably at his limit.
Slightly crouched directly next to him —which still made him a few inches taller than the sitting drinker — was Thor with a tankard of ale in hand and a massive grin on his face. I didn't know how to react this this at the moment since I was in a bit of disbelief.
"Drink! Drink! Drink!" The people surrounding the man chanted until the man, who I could tell at this point was absolutely scrawny, finally drank the rest and slammed the tankard onto the table before lifting both of his arms in victory.
Cheering came from the crowd, with Thor being the loudest voice among them, as they congratulated the mage on his feat. Then, the mage slipped from his seat and fell to the floor unconscious. A wave of laughs filled the Hero's Respite as this happened and I saw Thor picked the man up with one arm before slinging him over his shoulder.
"Good work, little wizard! We'll make a warrior worthy of the halls of Valhalla out of you yet!" Despite Thor's boisterous remark, the mage made simple mumbles of delirium. Thor chuckled at this, yet while his attention was focused on the man over his shoulder, mine was focused on the hammer lazily floating over to the god with a tankard balanced upon the widest point of its head.
"Thank you, Mjolnir!" Thor said as he took the drink from the hammer and began chugging it down. I couldn't figure out what was more ridiculous, that the God of Thunder was using one of the most powerful artifacts, both in the game of YGGDRASIL and in the actual Ten Realms, as a glorified server of his drinks or that he was partying it up with a bunch of mortals in this tavern?
It would be almost comical if it wasn't for the fact that this god could go on a killing spree of this entire city without breaking a sweat.
How was I going to even deal with this in the slightest? Do I just walk up to him and talk or—
The train of thought immediately derailed when the God of Thunder's almost electric-blue eyes landed upon me. Without hesitation, he began walking over to me, leaving his newfound companions to their continued merriment. I found my heart pumping in my chest even harder as I wondered what was about to happen.
"Now, aren't you one of the most beautiful maidens I've ever seen," Thor commented with a grin as he swaggered over to me. "Golden hair, beautiful face, and—" the god glanced a little lower to my chest before meeting my eyes once more, "—a well-figured body. You must be Kashia."
I slowly gave a nod, "I am. And you are Thor Odinson. I hear that you've been asking about me," I replied, feeling the massive differences in our sizes as the god stood right before me and looked down.
"Indeed I am. And it seems like all I've heard about you is true." My eyes narrowed at Thor's statement. I have a feeling that Thor knew more about me before he came here and started asking question.
"And what have you been told about me? I hope it's good things," I questioned, earning a chuckle from the God of Thunder.
"Worry not, Kashia. Everything I've heard of you has been complimentary. That you're quite powerful for how young you are, that you're a beautiful maiden," he then leaned down to quietly speak in my ear, "that you have managed to gain the interest of my uncle. All of that makes you fascinating, wouldn't you agree?"
So, he was curious about me due to being the Chosen of Loki. I don't know if that was a good thing or a bad thing? Either way, I kept on guard for anything that Thor might try. "What does that mean with that being the case?"
"Just that I'm quite interested in you and would love to get to know you better. Perhaps a dinner upon a grassy meadow under the gaze of the stars." Thor gently grasped my left hand with his and lifted it up to his lips before kissing my fingers. "From there, I would serenade you with many a ballad of Yggdrasil and my past exploits before we finally unleashed our passion for each other under the curtain of nightfall."
…Did Thor just try to proposition me for sex? I wanted to sigh at how much of an annoyance this was going to be. If I refused, would he be unable to take no for an answer? Oh, and there was something else that came to mind.
"Aren't you married to Sif?" I asked, recalling what I knew of Thor's story. The red-haired god gave a truthful nod to my question.
"Aye, I am indeed married to my beloved Sif, lovely Kashia. She is the woman who I love with a passion that will outlive the stars!" He could paint over the act with artful prose, but it didn't hide the fact that he was cheating on his wife, or attempting to cheat on her.
Already, my opinion of the god was lowering by the second. "Even if I wasn't already in a relationship, I still would decline your offer since I have no wish to be with a man who sleeps around when he's married," I answered.
The God of Thunder seemed a little disappointed by my answer, but he thankfully didn't seem hostile. "It's disheartening to hear this, but I must respect the man that managed to attain your heart. I will have to share drinks with him in the future! And as for Sif, she understands and accepts my trysts for what they are. I may lust for others, but I will never love any besides my Sif."
I can't say that I can fully trust Thor's words without another to confirm it, but then again, I wasn't raised in the culture he was in, so we likely had differing cultural norms. In an attempt to be diplomatic, I nodded at Thor's answer. "I believe I understand," was all I said further.
Thor gave my fingers a soft, reassuring squeeze while smiling before finally letting my hand go. "Marvellous to hear. Though, I will say that I wish you hadn't declined as I am quite curious on—" he leaned down once more and whispered, "if it's true what they say about your people? Namely, how your women make the sweetest sounds amidst the throes of pleasure."
My jaw dropped and I felt a blush grow on my face.
This looked to be all the confirmation that Thor needed as he barked out an amused laugh. "Great to hear that the rumors are true! Now, as I—" Thor stopped for a moment as both he and I heard a cawing of a bird, and looked past me towards the street. I tried to follow his gaze, but I spotted nothing to tip me off on what had gained the Thunderer's interest. "It appears that we will have to continue this conversation later as I have business that needs attending to."
He walked around me towards the doorway, and I quickly followed after him. "What business? Why are you even here in the first place?"
"You may learn that at a later time, fair maiden! Until then, I hope to see you again, and I especially hope that you bring this lover of yours next time as I gladly wish to meet and drink with him!" Saying this, Thor gave a quick whistle and Mjolnir flew down to Thor's belt and into a holster made for it.
"And when would I even see you again? You're being extremely vague about everything right now, and it is beyond vexing!" I called after him with frustration evident in my tone. Thor looked over his shoulder and gave me a large grin.
"You might know at a later time of my purpose here. Until then, we'll have to save it for our next meeting. As for when? Well, my purpose will hopefully be finished swiftly, so I'd like to say that it will be a week. But who knows, mayhap my task will be more excitingly challenging!"
Another loud caw, and both Thor and I looked up to see a raven circling above the street. It took one final rotation before diving down at us. My confusion was evident as the raven dove down upon Thor and the mage still hoisted over his shoulder. Almost suicidally so. And yet, instead of crashing against the body of the God of Thunder as a mass of broken bones and feathers, the raven dispersed into a whirlwind of black feathers that surrounded the god.
Before I could do or say anything further, the whirlwind had disappeared with the god and unconscious man who had been in it following in turn.
Now, I was left on the street — relatively — alone to think about what just happened. Thor had been waiting for someone aside from me. And with that raven being a big hint for it, I suspected that Odin was now involved in the New World.
I have no idea how or when Odin arrived here, but those two questions were less important than why he was here? With how amicable Thor had been, I felt like Odin wasn't exactly hostile to me, but that could easily change in the future.
Today just seemed to get worse and worse for me. And what made it all the more stressing is that I had a dinner to prepare for.
[Count Philip]
I felt a mixture of excited and confident as I watched my guests trickle into my estate. There was the mayor of the city, Lord Panasolei, who entered with his wife, Lady Maralese. Those two coming here just showed how much they respected my new position and wished to acknowledge it.
Sadly, there were only a few other nobles I actually recognized by sight. The rest, my newly appointed steward, Hanzo, had to point out for me. He truly was quite competent for a peasant, and it made me understand why Iselk had given him such command of the household in his place.
"Arriving after them is Baron Dominic Everet Reylans and Baroness Victoria Sanamaria Reylans." The baron, a blond man with a mustache, wore a matching outfit of bronze and blue while the baroness wore a royal blue dress.
"And what do they rule over?" I questioned as I wasn't as familiar with the nobility on this side of the kingdom compared to the western side.
"A small territory to the west of E-Rantel. But they have been expanding with the help of Viscountess Annabella Emilius Belmun," he pointed to the prim, brunette woman walking in behind them in a red dress. "Viscountess Annabella has a large number of investments in the businesses within E-Rantel. It's fair to say that if you plan to do business within the city, you should meet with her to get the best offers."
Ah, a wealthy businesswoman. And, from what it appeared, she lacked an escort. "Is she married?"
"Not to my knowledge, Lord Philip." Interesting. Perhaps it would be a good idea to meet with and get close to her. I've no doubt that my natural charm and charisma could win her over.
"Up next would be the guest you requested for after hearing about her, Princess Kashia Blanc and–" My eyes quickly flitted to possibly the most beautiful woman I've ever seen. Her face could have ballads written about it, with her eyes being an orange reminiscent of setting suns. Her golden hair was put into a bun, with the remaining length of it cascading down her back. Resting on top of her hair was a small golden tiara inlaid with a large, crimson ruby and small sapphires.
She wore a sleeveless dress with an alluring slit that almost went to her hip. This daring exposure was only matched by how much of her cleavage was being revealed. The entire dress looked as if it had been woven from gold.
Her arms were covered in similarly-colored, long gloves, adding an elegant refinement to this exotic image. Completing her outfit was a choker of golden cloth that covered most of the length of her neck, holding an almost glowing, crimson jewel.
"That is the princess?" I questioned, even though I knew it to be the case. She was too perfect to not be anything less.
"Yes, Lord Philip. That is Princess Kashia. She is also being accom–" That confirmation was enough as I already began making my way towards the princess. I had to speak with her.
The fact that she had taken up my offer to come to this feast meant that she had interest in me. And, with how I was only recently established as a count, then it had to be beyond just something political!
Drawing closer to Princess Kashia, I was captivated watching as she talked with some man next to her. Her expression of amusement just lit up the room, filling me with a want I've never felt before.
It felt like an eternity approaching her, but when I had finally arrived, it was almost like time had passed too quickly. As her eyes turned from whoever she was talking with to look at me, I could feel a beautiful connect blossom between us.
"Good evening, Princess Kashia. It is an absolute pleasure to meet a beautiful traveling dignitary like yourself." I said this as I gently took her gloved hand into mine and laid a kiss upon it. Looking up to meet her gaze, I could see that she was obviously flustered.
With how shy she appeared with this one action of mine; I could tell that she obviously felt something more than mere passing interest with me. No, just like Princess Renner, I have also managed to capture the heart of another princess.
"U-Uh, thank you for your kind words, Count Philip," Princess Kashia said with a small smile aimed at me. "To be honest, I was quite surprised to hear that I had been invited to this feast."
I gave a dashing smile and replied, "Word of the beautiful, traveling princess residing within E-Rantel has spread among all the nobles in this city, so I just had to invite you to this feast. But I'm so glad that the rumors of your appearance were unable to do you any justice, your Highness."
"You're so kind. It's a little astounding to hear that so many nobles have been speaking about me." Princess Kashia sounded so bashful as she said this. She truly didn't have a need to be so bashful, and that just continued to confirm my suspicions that she was already falling for my charms.
"They speak it because it's true, your Highness. Your beauty is one that is beyond compare, and I have seen many other noblewomen who have claimed to be the most beautiful in the kingdom." While that wasn't fully true as I haven't met as many noblewomen as I implied, Princess Kashia still ranked as the most beautiful of them, challenged only by Princess Renner who I saw once before.
Princess Kashia looked at me with her orange eyes, obviously full of want for me. "Thank you, Count Philip. This excess attention you're giving me is quite flattering, though I worry that the other guests might grow jealous."
Ah, Princess Kashia was already thinking of my own welfare compared to her wish of spending time with me. She is just as thoughtful as she is beautiful.
"I'm certain that the other guests would be more than understanding if I spent a bit more time speaking with you than them." I grew closer to her, before I finally noticed that the servant she arrived here with was giving me a glare.
Strangely enough, I could swear I almost saw one of his eyes become red before I waved off the thought.
It was comedic in a way, that Princess Kashia had so captivated me that I hadn't even noticed the servant next to her. He obviously wasn't a noble due to the signs of his common features. She likely brought him along as an entourage to keep up appearances.
It would be best to ignore him as the man was obviously jealous of the attention that the beautiful princess was giving me, which he would never have. It almost reminded me of that one servant of Princess Renner's, Shy-Row, who showed similar jealousy due to her infatuation with me.
"I do have a question for you, related to your homeland and culture, if you are willing to aid my curiosity." Princess Kashia gave me a nod to continue, "Is Kashia Blanc your full name or does your land only give their nobles two names?"
The blonde beauty appeared to think about the question for a moment, looked to the man next to her for some reason, then she finally gave me her answer, "My full name would be Kashia Lena Blanc Smith."
An oddity to hear such a name, so I decided to ask, "Why do you have the common name of Smith in your name?"
"Because my father was a commoner." Her simple answer was most surprising. Her mother, a queen, decided to marry beneath her station.
"How odd. I've never heard of a royal marrying a lowborn in such a fashion. Still, it seems that, despite your father's status, you've inherited none of it besides a name. You truly have the air of a princess about you."
My compliment appeared to have truly pleased Princess Kashia as a happy smile grew upon her lips. "Thank you for the compliment. I've never encountered someone who could be so charming before."
"You are most certainly welcome, Princess Kashia. But I do wonder, with your father, as a lowborn peasant mind you, was he really able to actually acclimate to a greater status than the lowly position he started at? It must have been quite embarrassing at court to see him likely revert to his baser origins as peasants are wont to do." From the way that Princess Kashia maintained her smile, I could tell that she was doing her best to hide the embarrassment that her peasant father must have caused her family.
I chuckled at how embarrassed she must feel speaking to me about this. "But worry not, your Highness, you needn't feel any shame when speaking to me of this. After all, peasants are just sim–"
Just before I could continue speaking with the princess any further, Hanzo had grabbed my shoulder with a concerned look. "M-My Lord, I believe that there is a matter that requires your urgent attention."
"Shame," I said sadly to Princess Kashia, "I wish that we could've carried on with our conversation, but we'll need to continue it later as I must take care of matters concerning my estate."
"Yes. Shame." From how few words Princess Kashia spoke, I felt that she must be growing even shyer as we continued speaking, likely due to her great feelings for me. I must speak with her again after I've taken care of whatever matter Hanzo needed of me so that I could reciprocate this obvious affection.
[Kashia]
Hanzo hadn't been joking when he said that Philip was an oblivious idiot. And, unfortunately, I decided to answer Philip's question which let me find out firsthand, "My full name would be Kashia Lena Blanc Smith."
"Why do you have the common name of Smith in your name?" It had been a false hope that the brat would end it there, but I guess it would be a little odd for a noble to have a last name of Smith.
"Because my father was a commoner." I replied brusquely, wishing that Philip could just hurry up so that Lukrut and I could continue talking. This brat was annoying, but I could be patient enough as I played this game enough at the last feast I attended. Just had to—
"How odd. I've never heard of a royal marrying a lowborn in such a fashion. Still, it seems that, despite your father's status, you've inherited none of it besides a name. You truly have the air of a princess about you."
What did this motherfucker just say?
I felt a mixture of bafflement, confusion, and blinding anger that I had to do my best to claw down so that I didn't snap this dumbass' neck by slapping him. "Thank you for the compliment. I've never encountered someone who could be so charming before." I managed to say this as diplomatically as I could while maintaining a smile that hid my actual emotions at the moment.
"You are most certainly welcome, Princess Kashia. But I do wonder," he continued on, making me wonder why was this moron so oblivious and stupid? Did he want to die?
"With your father, as a lowborn peasant mind you, was he really able to actually acclimate to a greater status than the lowly position he started at? It must have been quite embarrassing at court to see him likely revert to his baser origins as peasants are wont to do."
Philip began chuckling, as if it was some type of funny joke to him. "But worry not, your Highness, you needn't feel any shame when speaking to me of this. After all, peasants are just sim–"
My heart was thumping with adrenaline as I wanted to murder the little shit this instant! Damn trying to hide my identity, I'd turn into my bestial form and bite his damn head off! No one talks about my dad like that! My feet were already beginning to move me towards the soon-to-be-dead count before Hanzo appeared besides the little shit and grabbed him by the shoulder.
I could see the incredulous, and frightened look in Hanzo's eyes as he looked at me before speaking to the brat. "M-My Lord, I believe that there is a matter that requires your urgent attention."
I understood exactly what Hanzo was doing. He was attempting to get the little shit away from me before I lost control and caused a political incident. At the same time, Lukrut gave a subtle squeeze of my hand, slightly stalling my almost murderous rage.
"Shame," Philip said with a hint of sadness. Thankfully, the little shit decided to follow through with Hanzo's words as he looked to me once more, "I wish that we could've carried on with our conversation, but we'll need to continue it later as I must take care of matters concerning my estate."
"Yes. Shame." I fucking hope not. The little brat was so oblivious to everything around himself that he couldn't tell how much of a dangerous game he was playing.
But finally, Philip walked away and left Lukrut and I alone. "Are you alright?" Lukrut quietly asked me as I felt my heart rate slow down.
"I wanted to tear that little shit's head off," I muttered angrily. "He doesn't know the first thing about hard work after living in the lap of luxury all his life. My father worked himself to the bone to take care of me, and Philip thinks he's still better than him? It's only made worse because it's extremely obvious to tell that the prick wants to get under my skirt."
"You're not alone in that regard, Kashia," Lukrut said with a scowl as his eyes trailed after Philip's retreating figure. Then he looked to me with a smirk, "How about the next time that oblivious prick says something upsetting, I take care of it?"
My eyes narrowed in interest, "And why would you want to do that?"
"Well, as your supportive lover," Lukrut wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me close, getting a smile from me, "I have to defend you in at least one way, and it also wouldn't reflect as badly on you if I was the one to teach him some manners instead of you. Also," he then chuckled, "I've always wanted the chance to punch a snobbish noble in the face at least once in my life."
I found myself giggling before I nodded in approval. "Just this once, I'll allow you to come to my defense in whatever way you see fit, my silly archer." This got a laugh from my silly archer.
"Good to hear–"
"Ah, Miss Blanc, it's good to see you once again!" Mayor Panasolei said while interrupting Lukrut. The both of us broke our gaze and looked over to the portly man who still smelled like a grease fryer to me.
Forcing a smile onto my face, I replied back, "Hello, Mayor. Nice to see another familiar face here." I looked to the woman who accompanied him, recalling that she was the Mayor's wife, I think. "I believe I remember seeing you at the feast the good mayor hosted, but I apologize that your name escapes me."
Getting a good look at her, it was clear to see that the blonde woman was a head taller than Panasolei. A lot thinner as well, though it wasn't saying much considering how rotund the mayor was. She wore a green ballroom dress, matching the Mayor's green suit and jacket.
"No need to apologize, your Highness. You're still new to this country, and I've no doubt that you were bombarded with new names and faces at my husband's feast," the blonde said in understanding. "I'm Maralese Alder Sennica Rettenmaier. It's a pleasure to meet you."
Why the hell did this Realm's nobility have to have so many damn names? I technically have three names, with Blanc just being an added fourth, but that was just a standard for everyone back home. Here, they considered one a noble if they had more than two names, and one of high status if they had more than three. All commoners only had one or two in comparison.
"The pleasure is shared, Lady Rettenmaier," I replied with a simple smile. As I spoke, my gaze focused on the eyes of Lord and Lady Rettenmaier. Their eyes were filled with a scheming intelligence, and I had to wonder just what they might currently be plotting?
"I remember you," Maralese remarked as she looked at Lukrut. "You accompanied Princess Kashia at my husband's last feast, didn't you?"
Lukrut was caught unprepared to be included in the conversation for once, at least from the surprised expression I saw on his face that eventually turned into an uneasy grin. "You're correct Lady Rettenmaier."
It almost seemed like Maralese's smile grew even larger after Lukrut said this. "Marvelous. And from what I hear, you aren't a noble yourself." While she certainly acted like she knew very little about Lukrut, something told me that both of the Rettenmaiers knew more about both of us than they let on.
Lukrut nodded, and I felt like he was also wondering where Maralese was going with this. "No, Lady Maralese. I'm just a simple adventurer."
"Calling yourself a 'simple adventurer' is quite humble, wouldn't you say? I doubt attaining a princess' affection is something any simple adventurer can do. Besides, the team that you're part of, the Swords of Darkness, recently had most of its members attain the rank of gold plate."
Lukrut might not have caught on, considering how he was processing the noblewoman's attention, but I did. She – and probably Panasolei as well – have been monitoring our team for a while now. This was likely due to my connection with them.
And that only made me wonder what the Rettenmaiers planned to do with that information? Courtly intrigue wasn't a strong skill of mine, it's why I had others doing it for me.
"Ah, well, my friends and I only just got that rank. We've still got a long way to go before we can be considered anything special among the other adventuring teams out there. It doesn't make me that special, Lady Maralese."
Maralese giggled at Lukrut's response, though I wasn't certain on what part of it she found amusing. "You really are quite humble, young man. Though, perhaps that is why Princess Kashia enjoys your company?"
I gave a small smirk at this. "It's one of the parts about Lukrut that I like. Though there are quite a few other reasons I enjoy spending my time with him."
"Of course, Princess Kashia. I am well acquainted with that feeling since I married my husband for more than just a good match," Maralese stated, getting a chuckle from Panasolei.
"Still," Panasolei decided to interject, "with your team growing in capability, my wife and I might have a job or two lined up if you're interested."
Lukrut's eyes widened upon hearing this. I stayed relatively relaxed, feigning minor delight at the offer. "Really?" Lukrut questioned.
"Of course," Panasolei said with a nod. "My wife and I always have a need for a good adventuring party, and we believe that yours might be what we're after."
"Thank you, Mayor Panasolei," Lukrut said with a grin, "We'll be sure to inform the rest of our team about this."
Okay, this was definitely a ploy.
I don't know for exactly what, but it's probably related to me. I know this for certain because there are plenty of other teams in the Adventurer's Guild that would fit whatever job they wanted done. This might be some attempt to ingratiate themselves with the team, which would have the byproduct of ingratiating themselves to me.
Either way, we'd have to keep an eye out for them.
"Yes, this sounds like a wonderful future partnership," I added with a diplomatic tone.
"Glad to hear, Lukrut, Princess Kashia. I'll be in touch with Pluton in the future about it," Panasolei said with a wink. "But for now, I think Maralese and I have taken up enough of your time."
Maralese hooked her arm in Panasolei's and added in farewell, "Enjoy the rest of the feast, you two." They soon walked away after this, likely to mingle with some of the other guests. This just left Lukrut and I to ourselves once more.
"Guess we should try and enjoy the brief respite with one another before we get bombarded with more people wanting to talk to you." Lukrut said in amusement, getting a small giggle from me.
"Seems that way. At this point, I just wish we could just have the food and be done with this." Looking around, I spotted a few noblemen that had spotted me, and looked ready to head over to talk, likely to try and make their move on me. "I am not going to enjoy spending the next few hours being ogled and propositioned the entire time."
"Then how about I try to help you a bit," Lukrut said as he maneuvered me until I was against his chest. Then, he tilted my head up by my chin and kissed me. After a few moments, we finally broke apart.
"Not that I mind," I said with a smile, "but what was that for?"
"Besides doing it just because I like kissing you, it will probably scare off a few of your annoying admirers," Lukrut answered in amusement. Glancing around the room, he wasn't wrong as a few of the eager looks I had seen on a few faces of the noblemen fell into disappointment.
"What a noble way to defend this helpless princess," I teased with a swoon, getting a laugh from Lukrut in return.
"Like you need that much help, Ms. I-Can-Alter-Landscapes-On-A-Whim," Lukrut fired back.
Shrugging in response, I replied, "Even though I'm a very powerful princess, it doesn't mean that I'm not opposed to help at times."
"You know, it's pretty funny that everyone else gets to call you princess, and yet, you don't want me doing the same. Might make me feel a little left out, my beautiful foxy princess," Lukrut teased into my ear, causing shivers to go down my spine.
"That's because when you do it, you start making me needy, dummy," I answered with a roll of my eyes before adding, "especially when it's about that time for me."
"Then I'll have to be extra attentive about it in the future." I had to resist the urge to find a private corner for us to be left alone and tamper it down instead with a promise.
"We're going to be busy tonight after this feast," is all I said further, much to Lukrut's excitement.
From there, we had to spend the next half-hour or so dealing with any of the few nobles not discouraged by Lukrut staking his claim. They were annoying, but at least they weren't as insufferable as Philip. At least the other nobles that came by to talk were trying to establish friendly relations.
Either way, it was mentally taxing to deal with these people without end. My only saving grace came when Hanzo announced that the meal would be starting soon and guests would be led to their seats.
Unfortunately, that moment of relief turned into irritation on the verge of anger.
When Lukrut and I had been led to the long dining table, Philip sat at the head of the table with Panasolei, followed by Maralese, sitting to his left. On his right…
I would be sitting right next to him with Lukrut after that…
When Lukrut and I took our seats, I already went for the wine, even if I knew that it wouldn't affect me or provide even a minor buzz. My racial passives really backfire on me in that regard.
At the same time, Philip's servants – who in truth were actually mine – brought out plates of roasted boar, corn, and potatoes. It smelled amazing, likely because the kitsune who made the meal had decades, if not centuries, of experience with the culinary arts.
"It's delightful to be talking with you once again, Princess Kashia," Philip said with a self-indulgent smile.
"Yes. Very delightful," I said as calmly as possible. "I never would've expected to be sitting next to you, Lord Philip." For all that is good, can this idiot stop talking to me?
[Count Philip]
"I never would've expected to be sitting next to you, Lord Philip," Princess Kashia remarked, no doubt nervous at sitting next to her object of infatuation.
"Both you and the noble Rettenmaiers are guests of honor at this feast. It would be shameful to see any of you sitting elsewhere except near the head of the table," I explained, getting a nod of understanding from Princess Kashia as she went to sip on some wine.
"Oh," Kashia said, her brows furrowed, likely pondering how to repay such an honor. Not that she needed to. After all, her presence and affection were more than enough of a reward.
Delving into my delicious meal, I noted how it was just as good as all the other meals that the chefs had made for me. Hanzo had truly outdone himself when picking new staff for my estate. Each of the servants so far have been beyond competent at their duties.
I think that I'll have to reward my steward for his ability to get my estate on track and running properly after Iselk had let it fall into such a sorry state. Perhaps a raise in pay or a day off would suffice?
"So, Count Philip, how has your new title been faring for you?" Mayor Panasolei asked as he ate the boar meat on his plate.
"Marvelously, Mayor Panasolei. After fixing up the estate from the former count's oddities, I've had my steward looking into the other properties in my possession that can be turned profitable. He'll work on it quite soon," I answered, taking a bite from my fork.
Mayor Panasolei gave me a curious look before he asked, "Am I hearing correctly that you're having your steward take care of all the matters for your estate and properties?"
I smiled and nodded while sipping from my own glass of wine. "Of course. Such minor things should be left to the help. It gives me more time to focus on more important matters."
"An… interesting method of running your estate. Not quite often you hear of such a way succeeding, but I believe that you're more than confident and qualified to decide such matters yourself." I took Mayor Panasolei's compliment with a smile and had another drink from my glass of wine.
"Efficiency is what carries a noble family far in life, dear Mayor. I have attained the services of many competent servants that shall ensure my estate, and eventual businesses, run flawlessly." My answer intrigued the Mayor, who smiled at me with a twinkle in his eyes.
"Well run businesses are the backbone to success, Count Philip. Have you decided which business you might start up?" Mayor Panasolei's question caused me to consider the possibilities. From what Hanzo has told me, the other properties I own are simple fields, one of which had the remains of a building that had burnt down.
"I believe that the best course of action would be to develop my properties into usable farmland."
The Mayor put a hand to his chin in thought, "Dear boy, that is a wise idea in the longterm, but harvest season is over. What will you do before spring?"
I took another drink and though further, "I'll have to ponder upon that for a bit, Mayor Panasolei. I believe that my steward will have a few good ideas for it when I next go to ask him."
"…I see. Would you be kind enough to enlighten me, who is this steward that has aided you so fervently in restoring this estate?"
Looking around the room for a moment, I spotted Hanzo talking to a few of the servants, giving them a series of orders before they went off to obey. Pointing him out to the Mayor, I answered, "That would be my steward, Hanzo. He was once a close aid for Iselk until the former count vacated his position."
"Interesting. While I don't recall seeing Hanzo when I visited Iselk's estate before, it was likely because the man was hard at work on some errand." I nodded in agreement with the Mayor's observation.
"Yes, that's what he told me as well," I answered, taking another sip of wine. My face felt quite warm as the drink was already affecting me.
"Well, with how important Hanzo is, why isn't he feasting amongst us?"
"It's because he's q-quite busy with his duties at hand," I simply answered.
"Most… understandable," Mayor Panasolei commented as he went back to his meal and spoke with his wife. That gave me a chance to eat some more before looking back over to Princess Kashia. Perhaps it was the lighting or the drink, but she looked even more radiant than before as she spoke to that servant of hers.
I ate and drank some more as I considered how to tell the princess that I was aware of her feelings for me without frightening her. Perhaps a bit more liquid courage is in order. Drinking a bit more, I pondered my decision and continued watching the blonde beauty.
Yet, amidst my observations, I found it quite odd that she was so heavily in conversation with her servant. It almost gave me the horrid thought that this commoner, whatever his name was, is trying to seduce the princess.
"Princess Kas-Kashia, I-I wonder, why is it that you associate s-so closely w-with your serv-vunt like you d-do?" I eloquently asked her despite some minor inebriation kicking in. That allowed me to receive the attention of those orange eyes.
"He's not my servant, Count Philip. Lukrut is my lover." That was just impossible!
"That h-has to be a muh-stake." It didn't make any sense at all. A woman of her upbringing shouldn't be involved with someone like this Lakroot or was it Lukrut? Regardless, I had read her intentions perfectly all night! Princess Kashia was in love with me, so why was she with this lesser man? "You s-shouldn't no-not, be with him."
"Who I choose to be with is of no matter to you." This wasn't right!
"But Prin-Princess Kasha, he jus' a peasant," I explained, and her eyes narrowed as she looked to be upset. Ah, so she does understand that. I find it hard to believe that someone of her class would ever willingly be with a peasant. Obviously, the man must be forcing her in some way to be with him.
"So was my father," she replied succinctly. And that also gave me another thing to question. I had been thinking about it throughout this night, and with how embarrassed Kashia looked when we had talked about her father, it led me to believe that there was something more to that story.
I had good reason to think that something darker was involved in her history.
"An' jus' like your fah-ther, I think t-that this p-peasant is f-forcing you in-into this relat-relash-joining." For come strange reason, it felt like the air had grown cooler.
"What did you just say about my father?"
For a moment, I thought I could see Princess Kashia's eyes shift to a glowing golden.
Taking another drink of my wine, I answered, "Tha' I know abou' wha happent' ya' fah-ther. He forced himself o-on your muh-muh-ther–"
"Philip," Princess Kashia seemed to oddly growl my name out, and I couldn't understand why she sounded upset. "I'm going to give you a chance to retract that statement before I kill you." My eyes widened upon hearing this.
Why did she want to kill me?!
"Count Philip, I suggest you apologize immediately," Mayor Panasolei said in a harsh tone.
Before much else could be said or done, the commoner that accompanied Princess put a hand on her shoulder, tempering some of the blonde's anger. "Kashia, remember what we talked about earlier?" She nodded.
"Make it hard. Then, let's leave."
Make what hard? And leave?! Before I could come up with something further to say, both Princess Kashia and the peasant stood up from the table together. The peasant then walked over to where I sat and pulled me up from my chair.
"Uh-Unhand me, p-peasandt!"
"I'm going to enjoy this." The peasant said ominously. Anything further that I had to say in retort clammed up as I became fully witnessed to a sight that I could no longer say was an imagined illusion or a trick of the light.
The peasant's right eye was a glowing red with a slitted pupil that seemed to constantly move. H-He wasn't human! This had to be why–
Any further thoughts left me as I felt his right fist impact my face, sending me flying through the air until I fell to the floor and skidded a little further to a stop. The little consciousness I still had allowed me to witness as the peasant let Princess Kashia loop her arm into his. Then, they walked away.
The peasant is a monster! I had to get Princess Kashia away from him!
Those were my last thoughts before I lost consciousness…