Chapter 474: Arriving at the Royal Castle

Alex-niisan and Sister-in-law Daniela were at a loss for an answer.

Is it really acceptable to form ties on a national level? If that happens, Sister-in-law Daniela would be the representative. If anything were to occur, it would become the responsibility of the entire country.

And it’s not just the country. The Heine Frontier Count’s family, who are accompanying us, could also be held responsible. It should be declined. I was about to make that suggestion, but Sophia-sama spoke up before I could.

“The meeting with His Majesty the King will be treated as top secret. Nothing will be made public. We’ll simply say that an acquaintance of His Majesty came for a visit.”

“So that means everything discussed and everything that happens there will be treated as if it never occurred, right?”

“Yes. That is exactly right.”

It seems she really just wants to say thank you. If that’s the case, then maybe it’s okay? Alex-niisan and Sister-in-law Daniela looked at each other. Sister-in-law Daniela nodded. It seems they’ve decided to accept the offer.

Looks like our return to the country will be delayed. But there’s no helping it.

“Under those conditions, we’ll accept. But please make sure it’s treated purely as a personal meeting.”

“Of course.”

With that, Sophia-sama gave a deep bow and left. She probably didn’t want this either. She likely wanted to refuse, but couldn’t find a way to do so. With the matter of Erwin-sama as well, Sophia-sama must be having a hard time. I hope she doesn’t collapse.

“How far is it from here to the royal capital?”

“It’s about three days by carriage. Seems like we’re already prepared.”

“Yeah. We’re ready to return, so we can leave anytime.”

It seems Sophia-sama—or rather, the Kingdom of Raven—had already completed their preparations. The next morning, we set out for the royal capital. With more carriages and more people, our party headed for the capital.

“Will Julius-sama be all right?”

“My brother already sent a letter to the Heine Frontier Count’s family yesterday, so they should be aware of the situation to some extent. Still, it will take time before Father and Mother find out. I wish Fabienne could have told them, but that wasn’t possible.”

Nero looked troubled. I probably had the same expression. If I’d known this would happen, I should’ve given my parents something similar to what I gave Fabienne. But since it’s a very dangerous magical tool depending on how it’s used, I hadn’t made another.

If people could communicate freely anywhere, it would obviously be used for war. Not just war—assassinations and espionage would also become much easier. Such a thing shouldn’t exist in this world.

While I was thinking about that, the carriage safely arrived in the capital. At a glance, it seemed a bit smaller than the capital of the Kingdom of Spencer.

“Looks like we’re heading straight for the royal castle.”

Lionel, who had been confirming the carriage’s path, reported. His expression was like that of a knight facing a monster. Seems I’m not the only one who’s uneasy.

“I see. Then it’s best not to open the curtains.”

I wanted to see the cityscape, but it’s probably better that our faces aren’t seen too much. If it’s known that guests from another country are here, rumors will surely spread.

After a while, the carriage stopped. It seems we’ve arrived at our destination. Lionel quickly checked the surroundings.

“There doesn’t seem to be any problems, but please stay cautious.”

“Got it. I’ll be careful.”

Lionel seemed very wary. Maybe he thinks this is a trap to capture us. That possibility exists. I braced myself so I wouldn’t let my guard down. If something happens, I’ll fight back without hesitation.

“Julius-sama, are you tired?”

“I’m fine. I’m getting used to traveling by carriage.”

As soon as I got off the carriage, Erwin-sama spoke to me. Alex-niisan and Sister-in-law Daniela were also nearby. Everyone seemed to have arrived safely. Several servants were already standing near the castle entrance.

“This is your first time here, right, Alex-sama and Julius-sama? Welcome to the royal castle of the Kingdom of Raven.”

Sophia-sama greeted us with a smile. There was no sign of malice in her expression. It didn’t seem like there was a trap either. Guided by Sophia-sama, Erwin-sama, and the servants, we proceeded into the castle.

It seems we weren’t being led into the main part of the castle, but rather the private space of the royal family in the very back. Is it really okay for people from another country to enter such a place?

From there, we were shown to our guest rooms. The interior was very luxurious. But Sister-in-law Daniela is royalty, and Alex-niisan and I are high-ranking nobles, so it felt pretty normal. Habit is a scary thing.

“Will we be meeting with His Majesty right away?”

“Since we just arrived and you must be tired from the journey, I think it will be tomorrow.”

“I see. Sister-in-law Daniela, what kind of person is His Majesty the King?”

I asked hesitantly. If he’s a strict person, the meeting will be very exhausting. It would wear on my mental strength, so I’d prefer if he were the lenient type.

Sister-in-law Daniela fell into thought. It seems he’s somewhat strict. I’d better keep my talking to a minimum.

“He can be strict, but I think that’s just his role as king. When I met him privately, he felt like a father who cares deeply for Sophia-sama.”

“I see.”

If that’s the case, then is Erwin-sama, who wants to make Sophia-sama his fiancée, facing hostility? Or, on the contrary, is he secretly supporting them because it’s what Sophia-sama wants?

Since he lent out the Holy Sword, the latter seems more likely. In that case, maybe he really does just want to say thank you.

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