Kays Translations

Chapter 2: Flame of Promise

“You really... You're the heir of House Clarvain, you know? And yet, indulging in such a lowly pastime as a slave market... Show a little awareness of your position as heir.”

"I apologize, father."

Returning to the mansion, I was met with a disapproving look from not the Orc King... but from Arthur Clarvain, and Benedicta Clarvain, who looked at me with clear disdain behind her fan. They were my father and mother.

"Buying a slave girl at your age... Who do you take after?"

Mother's icy glance struck Father.

Indeed, they seemed quite displeased that their own child had bought a slave girl.

"Why are you looking at me like that?"

"I was reminded of your youth. Chasing after town girls and servant's daughters... How much sadness it brought me..."

"Well, that was then. Now it's just you, right?"

"Is it really?"

"It is. Not that it's proof, but how about tonight?"

"You, in front of the children?"

Father sweated nervously, trying desperately to please Mother. She didn't seem entirely dissatisfied either, so perhaps their relationship wasn't all bad?

Well, in later years, I would end up being disliked by both of them...

"I apologize deeply, Father, Mother. Excuse me."

With that, I left my father's study and hurried towards the drawing room.

This is quite the large house, though. Expensive-looking paintings and vases are displayed here and there, giving off a very wealthy atmosphere.

I knocked on the drawing room door, waited for a response, and then entered. Inside, I saw Celestine, Celia, who had changed from simple clothes into a maid uniform.

The maid uniform seems a bit too big for her, making her look cute in an oversized way. It's a sight that naturally furrows my brow.

"Leonhardt-sama, as you requested, I have washed Celia and dressed her in maid attire."

"Well done, Camilla."

Upon my words, the middle-aged, plump maid bowed. She is Camilla, the head maid who serves me.

"Hmm, so you've finally returned. I've been waiting." 

Added the imposing Ifrit, who was also present. Well, he's actually a great spirit, so he is indeed impressive.

"Camilla take care of teaching Celia about maid duties."

"Understood. Celia, here. Let's start with the manners and etiquette as a maid."

"Yes..."

Camilla, leading the still lifeless-faced Celia, left the room.

"Ifrit, you have something to discuss, don't you?"

"You're sharp."

As I sat on the sofa, Ifrit settled on the table.

"I'll start with what you're also curious about—her true identity. That girl's real name is Celestine Lucrelle, the princess of the Kingdom of Lucrelle."

"I see."

"...You're not surprised?"

Up to this point, this information is known through the game. But more importantly...

"Ifrit, you're supposed to be the great spirit protecting the Kingdom of Lucrelle. Why are you here? Why can only I see you?"

In the game, Ifrit was hinted at as a mere existence. According to the game's setting materials, he was reported missing after losing his power... So why is he here?

And why can only I see Ifrit?

"I was defeated in battle, but I wanted to protect Celestine, the last royal of the Kingdom of Lucrelle, at all costs... In my weakened state, I couldn't do anything... You can see me because you possess the Spirit Eye."

"Spirit Eye...?"

That term didn't appear in the game's setting materials...

"Ah..."

Could it be that Leonhardt's secret power is this Spirit Eye?

"About that Spirit Eye..."

"We don't have time right now. I need you to make a vow."

"A vow?"

"Yes. Swear to protect Celestine in my place."

"In your place...? Ah!"

Ifrit looked imposing, but his body seemed on the verge of collapse.

I see. In the game, Leonhardt must have made this vow.

In the world of this game, spirits are objects of faith. As a great spirit, they are almost akin to gods. Such a being, on the verge of disappearing, is wholeheartedly concerned about a single girl's well-being.

Surely, Leonhardt must have been deeply moved by this sight.

Even I, usually insensitive, could understand that this was a touching moment.

"...If my way works for you, I swear to protect Celestine for life."

I want to protect Celestine. She was my favorite character, and I fell in love with her at first sight.

If it's for Celestine's sake, I'll do anything.

But I won't throw myself away like the game's Leonhardt did.

I'll find a way for both Celestine and me to be happy!

"The contract is now established. Never forget that vow."

"Ifrit!?"

Ifrit began to dissolve into the air like flowing water.

At the same time, my body began to burn with heat from within.

"This contract must remain a secret. You must not speak of it, even to Celestine."

"Ah... Gah!?"

Overwhelmed by the heat coursing through my body, I lost consciousness.

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