Chapter 465: After the Blessing Ceremony

The “Blessing Ceremony” held in the capital of Duke Barriella’s territory ended smoothly without any issues, touching not just the attendees, but everyone who was within the range of Aeris’s “Blessing.”

Aeris’s “Blessing” was different from that of Saint Matilda; its area of effect was wider, and its power was on an entirely different level. There were people who claimed their old wounds had disappeared, others who said the fog in their hearts had cleared, and even some who stated they could see again. It was as if the miracles had embodied them, and these individuals, moved by it, stirred up excitement, openly praising the greatness of Saint Matilda.

“…A-Aeris’s ‘Blessing’ is incredible! Rumors of the miracles of those who have received the blessing have spread not only within the castle but throughout the town as well.”

Tauro had heard from Aeris about the actual effects of the Blessing, but rumors were spreading that went beyond that, leading him to think that her Blessing might be something truly special.

“My ‘Blessing’ doesn’t have any miraculous effect,’ you know? The people who said their old wounds don’t hurt anymore is because of the enhanced healing and self-regeneration effects. The haze in their minds likely disappeared because a light curse was on them and the purification effect removed it. As for those who can see again, it’s likely due to the temporary activation of self-regeneration that healed their eye diseases. Generally, healing magic can’t cure many diseases,” Aeris explained calmly to the astonished Tauro.

“Even so, I think you have really improved your skills. I think it’s amazing! Though I can’t stand that all the credit goes to the saint.” Ragune remarked, being considerate of Aeris.

“That’s true! I was deeply moved by your ‘Blessing’ too, Airis!” Zion added, appearing to pray to Aeris as if she were her new object of adoration.

“I shed a few tears myself,” said Anku, seeming somewhat shaken by the “Blessing.”

“Please, everyone, stop. I’m not asking for any credit, and I haven’t done anything warranting prayers. Anku’s reaction is just from his old age,” Aeris humbly replied.

“Isn’t that last comment a bit harsh towards me?!” Ankh retorted, making everyone burst out laughing and lightening of the atmosphere.

At that moment, there was a knock at the door, and when they answered, Viscount Musai and Marquis Donaison entered.

“The ‘Blessing Ceremony’ has concluded without incident. Thank you, Lady Aeris,” Viscount Musai said, bowing deeply to express his gratitude as the person responsible for the event.

Marquis Donaison also followed suit, bowing his head.

“I’m afraid that it was some kind of fraud. It pains me that so many people believe a miracle occurred…” he said, his expression still serious, as he was clearly still troubled by the issues yet to be resolved.

“What about the sealing spell, have you found the culprit?” Aeris asked, though she felt it was pointless.

“We are diligently searching, but unfortunately, we haven’t found anyone yet,” replied Marquis Donaison, shaking his head.

“…I suspect that the sealing magic has already been undone, maybe they decided it was ineffective and broke it. I don’t sense any kind of barrier magic or curse lingering around here,” Aeris conjectured. She was also considering the possibility of catching the culprit, yet responded such based on the disappointing information she received.

“…I see. So we’ll never find out who the culprit is. The Crown Prince’s side has been sending messages in response to our actions, so I’m not sure whether they are responsible or merely pretending…” Marquis Donaison fell deeper into distress. 

“Either way, it’s good that we managed to finish without any issues. I will report this to my father, Prime Minister Bariella, to alert him. You will be visiting the territory of Marquis Haragura after a few more places, right? Please be cautious,” Viscount Musai suggested, believing the Crown Prince’s party to be the culprit.

If the “Blessing Ceremony” in their territory had failed, it would have been a complete loss of face, and he must have shuddered to think what kind of rumors Marquis Haragura’s faction might have taken advantage of and spread. Viscount Musai seemed greatly relieved now that the heavy responsibility was lifted from his shoulders.

“Viscount Musai, we still don’t know who the culprit is. We, the Kingdom of Luwan are worried that something like this might happen again in the future,”

 Marquis Donaison was in agony, for he could not bear the thought of the Saint—his nation’s greatest diplomatic asset—failing.

“The Saint and her party will be staying for a few more days, so it may be best not to relax just yet,” Tauro cautioned Viscount Mousai.

　The enemy has been trying to do various things, including the fire incident on the first day.

　Of course, we cannot feel at ease at this point, as we do not know whether this is the work of the same person or whether it is being done with entirely different motives at play.

“…Indeed. Lord Tauro’s calmness is surprising for someone so young. Just as my father told me,” Viscount Musai acknowledged, appreciating Tauro’s cleverness which had helped them this time.

“Would it be alright for Lord Tauro and his group to accompany the Saint from now on?” Marquis Donaison seemed to conclude that Tauro and Aeris were indispensable figures for their journey in the kingdom.

“That’s a bit… The Saint seems to view Lady Aeris as a rival. Of course, that’s a misunderstanding, but being near her while she’s glowering at her would be uncomfortable for Lady Aeris. I’d prefer we continue to accompany her from a distance,” Tauro respectfully declined Marquis Donaison’s suggestion, taking into consideration how Aeris would feel.

“Hmm… So it’s about that rumor… I understand. It can’t be helped. However, if you sense anything like the sealing magic from before again, please inform us immediately.” 

“Of course,” Tauro agreed, shaking hands with Marquis Donaison to seal the promise.

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