Chapter 400: In the Eastern Lands

By the time we arrived at the salon, everyone was already there. It seemed that we were the last to arrive. Among them was Lionel, the captain of the knights. I had a bad feeling about this.

“Sorry for being late.”

“Don’t worry about it. I was called here earlier.”

Alex-niisan smiled at us, but somehow, his smile seemed more forced than usual. It felt like there was a shadow behind it. Feeling even more uneasy, I glanced at Fabienne, but she looked even more distressed than I did. Damn it, what good is it if I add to the anxiety?

“Father, what happened?”

“Hmm. Julius, you are aware that monster activity has been increasing lately, aren’t you?”

“Yes. Even within our territory, Snow Worms, which are usually never seen, have appeared. I know that monster activity has been unusual.”

Father nodded. It seemed that something had happened related to monsters. Could it be that more monsters had appeared in our territory? Given that Lionel was here, that was entirely possible. But if that were the case, action would have already been taken. The fact that I was called here… does that mean I have to go out on another subjugation mission?

“A letter just arrived from the Marquis of Muran in the east. It seems that a monster outbreak has occurred in the eastern region.”

“A monster outbreak…”

In the past, a goblin settlement had formed in the Heine Frontier Territory, and their numbers had rapidly increased. Back then, we noticed it early and were able to prevent a disaster. However, if we hadn’t dealt with it in time, a massive number of monsters would have flooded out from the demon lands, causing devastating damage.

It seemed that this time, something similar had happened in the eastern frontier.

Hearing this, Fabienne anxiously gripped my hand. I took the opportunity to squeeze back. The soft, squishy sensation was indescribable.

I nearly let my face relax, but I quickly steeled myself and waited for my father’s next words.

“The monster outbreak has already been suppressed by the eastern margrave. And it happened near the Muran Marquisate, so naturally, the Marquis of Muran also participated in the subjugation.”

Father’s expression was grim.

The eastern region was a key trade hub for the Spencer Kingdom and an important location. Unlike the northern frontier where the Heine Count’s ruled, I had heard that there were fewer areas inhabited by monsters. Because of that, the Muran Marquisate did not possess a large order of knights.

“If the monster outbreak has already been dealt with, then why did the Muran Marquisate send a letter to the Heine Count’s family?”

If it was already resolved, then they weren’t asking for reinforcements. Besides, the Muran Marquisate was far away. Even if we left now, it would take time to arrive.

Even Alex-niisan, who had arrived earlier, seemed to be hearing this part of the story for the first time. He was looking intently at Father.

“Yes. The monster outbreak was contained, but it seems the damage was severe. That region was not accustomed to monster attacks, so they were caught off guard.”

“Then… are they asking us to assist with the restoration efforts?”

Alex-niisan asked that question. The Muran Marquisate has Hilda-sama. She didn’t become a fiancée, but during their student days, she must have spent time with sister-in-law Daniela. He probably can’t just leave her alone. I also have my friend Caro there, so I’m concerned as well.

“That’s right. It seems that they are particularly short on magic potions. Even though it’s a key point in distribution, they can’t consume all the magic potions there. Precisely because it’s a crucial location, they must ensure a steady supply of magic potions. Because of that, they’ve inquired whether Julius could come.”

“Me?”

I ended up raising my voice without thinking. Of course, I would. Why would I, who haven’t even reached adulthood, be the one to go? If the Heine Count’s household were to send someone to help with the aftermath, wouldn’t it be better for Father or Alex-niisan to bring the magic potions?

No, maybe that’s not possible. Summer vacation is just around the corner. Soon, many nobles will be visiting the Heine territory. Sister-in-law Daniela will also be returning. Entertaining nobles, hosting horse races, running the trading company—Father and Alex-niisan are going to be extremely busy. In that case, the one who can still move around freely is me.

“It seems that both the Muran Marquisate and the Eastern Margrave family know that Julius is an excellent magic pharmacist. And that you can also freely handle magic tools.”

Who spread such rumors? Was it Master Giovanni, the head of the Royal Court Pharmacists? That sounds plausible and terrifying. And who spread the word about magic tools…? Maybe through my friends, from sister-in-law Daniela to Hilda-sama? That also sounds likely.

“We haven’t had much connection with the eastern lands until now. If this strengthens our relationship, the distribution of goods within the Heine territory will improve as well. It’s not a bad deal. Julius, will you go? Of course, Lionel will accompany you as well.”

Lionel, who was standing by the wall, bowed toward me. I see, so he’ll be both my escort and my observer. Hmm, the greenhouse isn’t going to be completed for a while, and I don’t see any reason to refuse. I guess I have no choice but to accept.

“Understood. I’ll take on the task. Lionel, I’m counting on you.”

“Leave it to me. I will immediately gather the knights who will accompany us.”

That settles it. I’m sure highly capable knights will be assigned. Security should be fine. The next issue is what to do about Fabienne. Mira will stay behind with Rosalia. She’s a good girl, so she’ll understand.

“Fabienne, that’s the situation. We’ll have to put magic potion-making at the Heine territory on hold for a while.”

“I understand. In that case, I will accompany Julius-sama to the Muran Marquisate.”

“Huh?”

Ouch, ouch! My hand, which she’s gripping, hurts! And her smile is terrifying!

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