Kays Translations
Just another Isekai Lover~
Chapter 189: In the Felker Territory
After leaving the Village of the Guardians, Isamu and his companions traveled about 150 kilometers across the Balsham Frontier Territory, camping on the first night as the sun set.
On the second day, they resumed their journey in the morning and by noon, they had reached the border of the Felker territory.
There wasn’t a formal checkpoint, but a simple fortification had been built for security along the large highway. Although there were no signs of luggage inspections, guards, possibly knights, were closely watching people as they passed, sometimes stopping individuals to ask questions.
“Well, I think we’ll be fine, but let’s see…”
Isamu muttered as they joined the back of a short line that had formed naturally due to the slowing traffic.
“We’ve got the emblem of a noble house, and the magic giant golem is dismantled and loaded, so there shouldn’t be any problems…”
Although the golem had been dismantled into its arms, legs, and torso to avoid suspicion, it was still large, and upon closer inspection, it would be obvious that the pieces were from a golem.
On top of that, their group was from the Klaufeldt family, who had been under suspicion until recently, so Isamu couldn’t help but feel a slight tension.
However, their concerns were resolved in an unexpected way.
“Hmm? That emblem is from the Klaufeldt family, correct? May I ask for your name?”
A veteran knight approached, his eyes on the emblem.
“Hello, I’m Annemarie Klaufeldt, the eldest daughter of the Klaufeldt family.”
Annemarie responded on behalf of the group.
“Ah, as I thought! Then this must be the rumored magic vehicle…”
Hearing the knight’s words, Annemarie asked curiously.
“It’s been the subject of rumors?”
“Yes, Samuel-sama, who recently returned from the royal capital, expressed his regret that he didn’t get to ride it, and it’s become a topic of conversation among the knights…”
“What? Did His Excellency really say that?”
Annemarie couldn’t help but ask again, surprised by something Samuel, usually so stern, would never seem likely to say. Isamu and the others in the car were just as astonished.
“Yes. He mentioned that while he’d heard the vehicle was not only fast but also quite comfortable, he’d hoped to ride it back. Unfortunately, he couldn’t because of Alexei Yaderud’s meddling.”
“I see…”
Annemarie murmured, taken aback to hear Samuel criticizing the faction leader, and in front of his knights, no less. Then again, with Samuel, it was hard to tell if he meant everything at face value.
“Oh, I apologize for detaining you. If the Klaufeldt family’s magic vehicle passes by, I’ve been instructed to guide you to the barracks. Would you mind accompanying me?”
The knight who approached their vehicle suggested.
“You knew we’d be passing through?”
While Isamu’s group had informed their faction about heading north, they hadn’t told anyone else. Maybe Felker’s scouts had spotted their unusual group and reported back?
“We received word from the capital three days ago. They informed us there was a high likelihood you’d be passing through here by magic vehicle and instructed us to guide you if you did.”
“Three days ago…?”
Since Isamu’s group left the village just yesterday, it wasn’t in response to them being seen on the move. Though puzzled, they decided to follow the guide to the barracks as directed.
Upon arrival, they were led to a room that appeared to be the barracks’ reception area, where Isamu, Annemarie, and their guards Felix and Mizeroi stopped just outside the door.
“Captain, they’ve arrived!”
“Thank you.”
The voice responding to the knock was female.
“Please, come in!”
“Thank you.”
As they entered, they were greeted by a young female knight.
“It’s been about a month and a half, hasn’t it, Matsumoto-sama, Annemarie-sama?”
“Wait… Franboise?”
Waiting for them was Franboise, the leader of the Felker family’s magic knights. Since the Felker territory relied heavily on magic knights, she was effectively the top knight of the family.
“I’m sorry to detain you when you’re in a hurry. Please, take a seat.”
“Thank you.”
Prompted by Franboise, Isamu and Annemarie sat down on the sofa opposite her, with Felix and Mizeroi standing behind them.
“Heh, I’m sure you have plenty of questions, so allow me to explain first.”
Franboise began, reading the atmosphere and smiling slightly.
“I’m here on orders from His Excellency Samuel. He figured Matsumoto-sama and company might be passing through and told me to meet with you.”
“His Excellency? But how could he have known we’d pass through here?”
“A short time ago, Avalushi troops withdrew from Kapolfi, yet the Plazzo road is still dangerous. Scouts report that magic giants—golems—have recently reappeared along the southern highway.”
As expected from a major noble with territory near the border, their intelligence network was impressive.
“Apparently, though, golem activity near the border has started to decrease recently. But just as that happened, sightings in the northeastern part of Plazzo have increased. It’s likely the golems from the south are gradually moving north.”
The information was consistent with what they had read in Liliene’s letter.
“His Excellency believes that this situation isn’t over yet. In fact, he suspects the real threat is only beginning. Even though you briefly returned after your territory was attacked, you soon left again and returned to the Balsham territory, even though your innocence has been proven and your lord has returned.”
It seemed that Franboise was well aware of their movements.
“Additionally, though not publicly known, I understand you recently encountered and defeated a golem belonging to Avalushi near the village of Pitche.”
Franboise said with a smirk.
“I only learned this by talking to the villagers recently. Factoring that in along with what I saw of Matsumoto-sama’s character during the recent exhibition matches and joint hunting event…”
Franboise paused and gave Isamu a long, intense look.
“His Excellency speculated that you might try to infiltrate Plazzo with a small, elite team and take action. He guessed you’d more likely enter from the north, given Avalushi’s movements. If so, you would likely pass through here, so he sent me to meet with you.”
“I see… so, now that you’ve met us, what’s next?”
Without confirming or denying her assumptions, Isamu asked.
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“He ordered me to accompany you and ensure you come to Felka.”
“What?!”
Surprised by her response, Isamu couldn’t help but exclaim.
“His Excellency said he wishes to speak with you directly. I must admit, I’m quite envious…”
“Sorry?”
“Oh, it’s nothing. Felka is just up the road, but since you might pass by, I was ordered to ensure you come with me.”
“Understood. If His Excellency, the marquis, has summoned us, we can hardly refuse. But we’re pressed for time. Can we meet him immediately?”
“He said he’d prioritize meeting with you. If there’s another guest, you might wait briefly, but he’ll meet you before anyone else.”
Isamu felt a tinge of anxiety over what could be so urgent that it merited such priority. But with such explicit instructions, he couldn’t refuse. With Franboise now joining them, the group continued northward along the road.
After a single break, about four hours had passed. As the afternoon wore on, they finally saw Felka, the capital of the Felker Territory.
“This magic vehicle is impressive… It would take a whole day by carriage from the fortress.”
Franboise marveled at the vehicle’s speed, having already been amazed by its smoothness along the way.
“The roads are well-maintained, which makes for an easier drive.”
While the highways in the Balsham Territory were well-kept, the roads in the Felker Territory were also wide and meticulously maintained—evidence of the Felker family’s dedication to infrastructure over the generations.
A few more minutes of driving revealed the city in its entirety. The town, enclosed by pale walls, featured a gentle hill at its center, with parts of the distinctive buildings peeking over the walls. Despite the odd afternoon hour, a line had formed at the large south gate, reflecting the bustle of the largest city in the northern region.
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Guided by Franboise, they bypassed the queue and headed for a separate gate designated for the knights.
“Captain Franboise! Welcome back!”
The gate guard, who had eyed the strange vehicle warily, greeted Franboise with a salute as she showed her face.
“Thank you. By order of His Excellency Samuel, I’m escorting the people from the Klaufeldt family and the wanderer Matsumoto-sama.”
“Understood! So, this unusual vehicle is the magic vehicle I’ve heard of…”
The gate guard examined it with great interest. As mentioned at the border, it was indeed famous among the knights.
“We’re heading directly to the lord’s manor; I need four riders to accompany us. I’ll stay in the magic vehicle.”
“Understood, Captain!”
The guard nodded and promptly relayed the orders, while another guard began guiding Isamu and the others.
Passing through the gate, they crossed the garrison’s courtyard and exited the grounds into the city. The streets revealed a blend of stone and wooden buildings, many with white exteriors, giving the city a cohesive, uncluttered appearance.
But it was the roofs that stood out. While the walls showed various colors up close, all the buildings had triangular red-brick roofs, adding warmth and unity to the cityscape. The steep angles likely helped with the heavy snowfalls.
“… It’s a beautiful city.”
Annemarie murmured, taking in the view. Isamu, who was driving, nodded in agreement.
“Is that so? Thank you. When the town began, they used the same roofing material simply because it was convenient. Eventually, everyone started using it. There’s no actual regulation, though.”
Franboise’s expression showed a hint of pride as she explained.
“His Excellency Samuel once said Klaufeldt’s cityscape is also quite striking and beautiful. I’d love to see it myself one day.”
“His Excellency said that?”
Annemarie asked, surprised by the unexpected compliment.
“Yes. He said that anyone who cannot appreciate that beauty lacks an essential sense of aesthetics and could never truly understand it.”
“Ha!”
Isamu couldn’t help but spit out his drink at the unexpected line.
“Huh?”
“Ahaha, he’s saying the same thing as someone else we know.”
Annemarie chuckled, recalling that it was the exact thing Isamu had once said, which puzzled Franboise, who tilted her head slightly.
“You’re welcome to visit anytime. I’ll be happy to show you around.”
Annemarie’s face mirrored Franboise’s earlier proud expression.
Surrounded by four mounted knights, they proceeded slowly through the city, and in about fifteen minutes, they reached the gentle hill they had seen from outside.
“Captain Franboise has returned, bringing guests. Please arrange an audience with His Excellency.”
The lead knight addressed the guard at the beautifully decorated gate, adorned with plant-like motifs. At his words, the gate opened slowly.
They passed through the gate, moving along a path lined with lush greenery that led to an entrance featuring a grand roundabout. About ten household staff members stood in a row, ready to greet them.
As they parked the magic vehicle and got out, a refined older gentleman stepped forward to welcome them.
“Lady Annemarie Klaufeldt, Lord Isamu Matsumoto, and the esteemed members of the Klaufeldt family, welcome. I am Thomas, head butler of the Felker family.”
“Welcome!” the assembled staff greeted them with flawless bows, each gesture polished and refined.
“Thank you for the warm welcome, Sir Thomas.”
Annemarie replied with a gracious smile on behalf of the group.
“The master is awaiting your arrival. I’ll escort you. Captain Franboise is also invited to join. This way, please.”
Thomas turned and, as he did, the entrance doors opened slowly, indicating they were indeed prioritized for the meeting as Franboise had mentioned.
To stay cautious, they left one guard with the magic vehicle as they all entered the manor.
After a brief wait in the reception lounge, they heard a knock at the door leading to the reception room.
“Yes?”
“Thank you for waiting. The master has arrived; please follow me.”
Thomas’s voice came from beyond the door.
“Thank you very much. Excuse us.”
With a polite acknowledgment, Annemarie, Isamu, their guards Felix and Mizeroi, and Franboise rose to follow Thomas into the reception room.
“Thank you for coming. I apologize for the inconvenience when you’re in a hurry. Franboise, thank you as well.”
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Samuel greeted Isamu and the others warmly.
“No trouble at all; we had business here anyway…”
Isamu had thought the meeting might be more formal, but Samuel’s relaxed demeanor caught him off guard.
“Please, take a seat. This won’t take much time.”
“Thank you.”
Isamu and Annemarie replied, sitting down after Samuel did. Their guards took their places behind them.
Franboise also stood behind Samuel, alongside another knight who had joined as security.
“Alright, since we’re short on time, I’ll get straight to the point.”
As everyone took their seats and had a sip of the tea served, Samuel wasted no time diving into the conversation.
“Who exactly are you planning to pick a fight with?”
“…”
“Hmm. Your poker face still needs some work. With Avalushi having left Plazzo, on the surface at least, you’re choosing to travel through enemy territory. It’s easy to assume you’ve obtained information that prompted this move.”
Samuel took the group’s silence as confirmation and continued.
“The stir began right after you returned to your territory. It’s reasonable to assume you gathered some intel related to bandits there. But if you presented it directly, Lord Yarderud and others would likely interfere. So, you decided to act on your own within your faction.”
He paused, crossing his legs before continuing.
“I don’t know what you found out or what you’re planning… but I doubt it’s a friendly chat. I’d wager your target is Zun.”
“…!”
“No need to look so surprised. Among nearby regions, only a few oppose us, and if Plazzo is involved, there’s a good chance it’s Zun. They likely don’t expect to keep it hidden, either.”
“…Assuming that’s the case, may I ask what you intend to do, Lord Samuel? You don’t seem inclined to detain us.”
Isamu managed to ask the question.
“Lord Yarderud instructed me to keep an eye on the Klaufeldt family. He suspects they may have connections to Avalushi behind the scenes and might join them in Plazzo from the northeast.”
“What!?”
“What he’s saying isn’t unreasonable. There’s no concrete proof yet to confirm the Klaufeldt’s innocence.”
While they had earned a presumption of innocence from the royal family and many nobles, no physical evidence had surfaced.
“So, I decided to monitor things personally by joining the mission.”
“Ah, so His Excellency is joining us in person… wait, what?!”
Samuel’s surprising statement left Isamu speechless. Behind Samuel, Franboise and the other knight were also wide-eyed, indicating this was news to them as well.
“It’s simply part of Lord Yarderud’s request. It’s not unusual for me to oversee things myself.”
“Uh… well…”
“Is there a problem? Of course, Franboise will continue accompanying us as well. It wouldn’t do for me to go alone.”
“Y-Yes, sir! I’ll follow you anywhere!”
Franboise, flustered yet thrilled by Samuel’s declaration, replied enthusiastically.
“Uh, but still…”
As Samuel continued speaking as if their joint mission was already decided, Isamu and Annemarie could only watch in confusion.
“Ah, that’s right. Personally, I’m convinced that you are innocent. So, I don’t intend to stop you from doing anything. Of course, if you were to harm our country, that would be a different story.”
“Wait, but then… what about the surveillance…?”
“Hmm? The order was to keep an eye on you, but there was no mention of stopping you. I don’t see an issue.”
“Well, technically that’s true, but…”
Isamu thought it was sophistry, but Samuel wasn’t technically wrong, so he was left speechless.
“Besides, they’ve gotten a bit too bold. I apologize to you, but I was willing to overlook them targeting the Klaufeldt family to obtain magic stones…”
He paused.
“But anything beyond that is unacceptable. That would throw everything out of balance, and a disturbed balance is not easily restored. That’s something I cannot allow.”
“What?!”
Samuel’s body began to glow faintly, and Isamu saw the light swirl intensely, prompting him to rise and brace himself.
“Your Excellency!”
Franboise, sensing something as well, called out anxiously.
“Ah, my apologies. I momentarily lost control over my magic. But it seems, Matsumoto, that you saw it too.”
Though brief, Isamu caught a glimpse of intensely concentrated magic with multiple attributes intertwined. It was his first time seeing multiple attributes being wielded simultaneously, and the potency was among the strongest he’d ever seen.
For a moment, he’d seen the true skill of the kingdom’s greatest mage.
“And so, I’ll be counting on you for a while.”
Samuel spoke as though nothing had happened.
“Ah… yes…”
Unable to refuse, Isamu found himself reluctantly accepting the unforeseen reality of traveling with the head of a Marquis family—who also happened to be a major figure in a rival faction.