Baka-Tsuki - User contributions [en]

Madan no Ou to Vanadis:Volume 03 Chapter 3 - MTL

2012-10-29T04:37:04Z

155.69.203.2: /* {{furigana|Brilliant Princess of Illustrious Light|Presuvet}} */

<noinclude>{{Template:PREVIEW}}</noinclude>
=== {{furigana|Brilliant Princess of Illustrious Light|Presuvet}} ===
North of the Orange Plains, beyond the river, several villages dotted the surroundings amidst a sea of vast vineyards. The time of the harvest had passed; the earth had a dreary color and was filled with branches barren of all leaves.

Perhaps it was also because of the weather; the mid-afternoon sky was covered in gray clouds.

''--- It's not raining. Even if it doesn't today, it will tomorrow. How troublesome.''

While riding on horseback along a path through the vineyards, Tigre looked up at the dim sky.

Tigre was visiting the largest village in the area, Saunier. He was amongst ten people without armor; at most, they were dressed lightly wearing only swords at their waist. Since they were all battle hardened, they were a strong fighting force.

“Rather than a village, it feels like a small town.”

Rurick advanced to ride next to Tigre and spoke his thoughts as he looked at the landscape of Saunier. Tigre also returned words of consent.

From above, the village was shaped like a circle. It was surrounded by a stone wall to an adult's height, and the gates were made of three pieces of thick, laminated oak planks, each at one of four corners of the town. They were painted with plaster to protect against fire.


“Saunier is the center of all the local villages.”

Ojie looked on while continuing the explanation. Given how relaxed he looked, it must have been a peaceful village.

“Most village meetings are done here. There is also an open market here, though there are villages closer to the highways than Saunier.”

There were many purposes for Tigre's visit to Saunier. One was to grant some sense of relief to the people by having Ojie, their feudal lord, appear. Another was to confirm the situation amongst the villages, and a third reason was to determine their future actions.

“Oh, you seem to be in a good mood. Tigre-san, are we staying here any longer?”

While looking at the stalls which sold fish-kebabs, a man standing next to Rurick heard him speak. He brushed his disheveled brown hair aside in a clumsy manner, showing his profile. He had a somewhat mischievous expression.

The man's name was Aram and was a member of the Zhcted Army. When Tigre was a captive, he had played a variety of games such as chess, cards, and ninepin.

“It will be just a little longer. Viscount Ojie ad I will be heading to the meeting place first.”

He responded to Aram's question made in slight jest; some laughter sounded from the surrounding men.


If he had come only to confirm the safety of the village, even with attendants, Tigre would only have required five people.

The reason he came with ten people was due to the existence of Aram's scouting unit.

Although Ellen had ten people scouting the Orange Plains, it was Aram's group of five which discovered the Ganelon Army.

This morning, Tigre called for them and praised them for their distinguished services.

“Although you helped immensely, there is little I can do. Still, I would like to do what I can for you, so long as it is within my abilities.”

Aram responded by saying, “There is a village one koku away. We would like to rest there if possible.”

In a situation in which he did not know whether Massas would appear and with their movements about Orange Plains limited, it was a considerably unreasonable demand. While Aram spoke in a light hearted manner, Tigre took him seriously.

However, Tigre knew Viscount Ojie would attend a meeeting at Saunier in the morning before he called for them.

“Though it is necessary to receive Viscount Ojie's approval, I believe we can go there without armor.”

When he told them Ojie had consented, they acted happily like children, despite nearing the age of thirty. They had now advanced ahead of Tigre and were looking about in interest.


The streets were flat and average in size. There were fences and pillars found at crossroads, and the streets were lined with rows of stone, brick, and slate houses with circular chimneys.

Children were scribbling on the ground or running about gardens.

Everywhere they looked, the village gave off a rustic impression, but with how well built the gate, tavern, and general store were, it was clear this village had many travelers.

“Although it was true of Tigre-san's land of Alsace, this place also makes me feel that Brune life is not so different from ours.”

“I know what you're talking about. I thought it would be more like Muozinel.”

“Let's eat for the time being. Then we can look for women. I haven't seen a beautiful woman in a long time.”

“That's a good idea. I'd like a good bed, too.”

While listening to the soldiers happily conversing, Tigre arrived at the meeting point.

It was a private house approximately three times the average household in the area, built with stone and bricks; its roof was made of clay.


While helping Viscount Ojie dismount his horse, Tigre spoke to Aram and the others.

“You have one and a half koku to do as you wish. Make sure to avoid trouble.”

Hearing they would have time to themselves, their looks changed. They turned and ran without looking back.

Rurick watched in amazement as he watched them leave his sight before shrugging his shoulders.

“Rurick, you can go as well. We will be fine, so why not go join Aram?”

“Thank you for your kind words, but Vanadis-sama and Lord Limlisha would surely kill me if I do.”

Though Rurick spoke jokingly, his eyes were serious.

“Then Batran, you may go relax.”

Even if three people decreased to two, it was not particularly significant, and he would not have much to do if he remained.

Viscount Ojie's subordinates accompanied him. Tigre and Rurick passed through the entrance to the meeting place inside the large stone building.

A wool carpet lay at the center of the room with a long table and chairs placed on top. Enshrined in the back wall were statues of the ten Gods.


After greeting all the gathered village leaders, Tigre sat in his seat. Ojie was the primary speaker, so Tigre simply remained silent and listened.

Though there were no special conversations in particular, he was able to confirm the good news that there was no damage. The story ended in half a koku and the meeting was disbanded.

''--- No information on the King's Capital...''

Though it did not show on Tigre's face, he was slightly disappointed.

For those who do not leave their village,travelers and merchants are precious sources of information and entertainment from the outside world. Hotel rooms and meals were offered to them, and the number of villagers requesting to speak to them was hardly a few.

Though Tigre expected to receive some form of information on the King's Capital, nothing was spoken. It ended in a miss.

“It ended early.”

After leaving the meeting place, Rurick scratched his bald head while watching the surroundings. It has only been half a koku since Aram and his men left. They won't be back for a while.

“I wonder if I should have arranged for a room to rest at or not.”

Ojie smiled wryly as he stroked his chin. Though the village chiefs offered a feast and bedding arrangements, they were planning to return quickly. Though he could call them back and have it arranged, Ojie was not a domineering lord.


“I will find a place to rest. Viscount Ojie, you should return to camp early and take a break.”

“If you say so. Earl Vorn, you should also take a break. Even if it is only one koku, it will help you relax.”

“No, I...”

Tigre spoke hesitantly and shook his head softly to the old Viscount. Ojie nodded with a smile. It was a modest attitude characteristic of a person with much modesty; still, it helped Tigre relax.

“I suppose so. Thank you.”

Thanking him, Tigre and Rurick left the old Viscount.

“What do you want to do, Rurick?”

“If I might have permission, I would first like some alcohol. Either wine or a honey sake would be nice to have.”

“I suppose so. Let's go look for a bar.”

“The inn and general store and the tavern are near the gate. I saw many people entering, and the signboard had a wine bottle. I believe there were many cheerful voices there as well.”


The inside was not particularly wide, and the fire was not lit since there were lamps and the windows were all wide open. Along the shelves were bottles of various shapes and sizes.

Half the seats were filed. Tigre and Rurick went deeper into the shop and sat at a table near the window. A fat, middle aged woman came to take their order.

“Did you want some beer? If you want, we can make you something light to eat as well.”

They ordered some bread and cheese and pickled cabbage to eat.

Soon afterward, pitchers filled to the brim with alcohol and plates with their food was placed before them.

After a toast, Rurick drank his drink quickly.

“A good alcohol. Do you like it?”

“It's not bad. It's light and has a good flavor.”

While cheerfully ordering another bear, Rurick reached for the pickled cabbage. After taking a bite, he let out a sound showing his interest. Though Tigre also tried the pickles, he did not find them as interesting.

“What's wrong?”

“Nothing. Though it looks the same, the taste is different from the one of my lands.”


“Same here. It tasted different from when I ate them in Leitmeritz.”

It was not limited to these dishes. Whether it be the bread or soup, though they looked the same, they had a different flavor. Tigre thought it somewhat refreshing; apparently Rurick did as well.

“Still, it is quite good on its own.”

Rurick spoke in a somewhat exaggerated manner seeing Tigre suddenly frown.

“You're looking quite glum.”

“Oh? I didn't think it was that easy to see.”

Tigre gave a noncommittal answer as he gazed at the scenery outside the window, though the bald man did not pay any heed.

“Don't make that face and just have a drink... is what I'd like to say, but given your worries, I suppose you can't think about drinking. Well, if you can talk about your worries, then feel free to talk.”

Tigre looked steadily at Rurick hearing his unexpected words and smiled.

“I thought about this before, but why did you decide to follow me in there earlier?”

Rurick smiled in a pretentious manner.


“Are you anxious?”

Tigre nodded, seemingly with his entire body. Rurick answered after taking a large drink.

“If it's an embarrassing story, so I may need to drink a bit more. Simply put, I need to relax some.”

Rurick continued happily as he nibbled on some cheese.

“Before I met you, I was the number one archer of Leitmeritz with a record of two hundred-seventy alsin. I had never met anyone within Zhcted who could shoot any further than that. Even in the King's Capital of Celesta, the furthest distance anyone could possibly reach was three hundred alsin.”

Rurick continued speaking conceited words.

On the continent, it is said the maximum range of a bow is approximately two hundred-fifty alsin (approximately two hundred-fifty meters). The average archer could not even reach one hundred-fifty.

“But you... in that kind of situation, normally you could not even pull out half your abilities. Still, you used such a terrible bow and aimed accurately at the leg of a human running along the ramparts, and you're five years younger than me... There were many things that were destroyed in that moment. In the end, you spared my life.”


It was a story of when Tigre had just become Ellen's captive. One might think it was an old story given how Tigre and Rurick were recalling that time while drinking beer.

“I found you interesting when I talked to you.”

“Thanks for that.”

Hearing a somewhat crooked compliment, Tigre obediently gave his words of thanks. Though both had been drinking, it was still a bit embarrassing.

“By the way, what's worrying you?”

Rurick returned to topic after ordering his third drink. Though his breath was tinged with the smell of alcohol, he looked earnestly at Tigre.

“I suppose I'll ask you seriously – The Zhcted soldiers are following me, but is that really okay?”

“Frankly speaking, that's a difficult question.”

Though his tone was serious, Tigre was at a loss for words. He was ruffling his red hair to reflect that.

“--- Every night, I look at the sky. The empty sky here is different from the empty sky of Alsace. When I remember the night sky I saw in Leitmeritz, it feels so distant.”


He was far from his hometown, continuing a battle in a cold plain during the winter.

They must have been tired both physically and mentally. Although Ellen was commanding them, should it not be for battle, they may have thrown all aside and gone home. Tigre asked himself these questions once again when Aram pointed out his desire to rest in the village.

These doubts could not be cleared by Ellen or Lim, which is why he spoke to Rurick.

It is because he was a soldier. Though he acted as Tigre's escort at times like today, he was still one amongst thousands of soldiers he would command in battle. Basically, Rurick worked hard on a daily basis and was fundamentally no different from the other soldiers.

Tigre wanted to have a look at the soldiers that day. He wanted to hear their views and welcomed them to speak without reserve.

“You're thinking too much.”

Rurick dismissed Tigre's worries.

“Vanadis-sama's predecessor lasted for a short two years. Anyone who lasts more than five years is considered to have lasted a long time. In Leitmeritz, we always follow whatever expedition they may undertake. So long as the soldiers have food and a salary, their morale will not fall.”

“And what of an enemy attack?”


“We only need to follow Vanadis-sama. Batran-san said the people of Alsace have a fear of fighting; they lack the courage and will to fight. However, they fought because of their leader. In other words, they fought because they believed in you.”

“I see... So that's how it is.”

Tigre finished his drink in a single gulp and let out a deep breath.

“Are you feeling better after hearing what I said?”

“Yeah, thanks.”

If the number of soldiers had been switched, that is, if soldiers of Brune outnumbered those of Zhcted, their battle in Alsace may have been different.

Of course, Ellen and Lim commanded Zhcted's soldiers while Ojie commanded Brune's soldiers.

Many people had gathered together.

Even then, Tigre was the head commander. There were many things he needed to know, needed to learn. It was necessary for him to learn the ways of countries other than Brune and Alsace in order to gain trust.

“You don't need to worry. We're fine as we are. By the way---”

Rurick lowered in tone unexpectedly.

“Lord Tigrevurmud. There is one more thing I would like to ask you.”


“What?”

Tigre had released his attention in his moment of relief. He began to drank his beer as he prompted Rurick to continue speaking.

“Between Lord Limlisha and Miss Teita, who would you choose?”

Tigre spat his beer out slightly.

“Wha, where is this coming from?”

“It's a bit of a hot topic. It seems spring has come for that frigid bit... Excuse me, that was rude of me. It must be the alcohol. I mean that strict person”

“... We are seen in that way?”

Though he did not realize he was looking down and was slightly agitated, Tigre carefully asked.

“I honestly don't know. However, Limlisha, as Vanadis-sama's adjutant, has never been close to another man. That's why there's a rumor that she speaks easily with Lord Tigrevurmud. Teita goes without saying.”

Though Rurick responded as if it was someone else's concern, his eyes clearly showed his interest.

“It seems people are making bets as well. Will you choose Limlisha? Or will you choose Teita? Incidentally,since you are an aristocrat, there has been suggestions of you choosing both.”

Tigre felt a headache and began scratching his head. He could not afford to think about such things when dealing with Tenardia and Ganelon.


Besides, following his contract, both he and Alsace belonged to Ellen, even if it was a verbal promise.

At the moment, Ellen had not made a declaration. Though ambiguous, their relationship could not remain as it is indefinitely. Still, it was a relationship far from love when he thought about it.

“By the way, if we bring peace to Alsace, what will you do?”

While Tigre was trying to think of a response to his blunt opponent's question, which had sealed all means of escape. He decided to go with that.

“Me? I will return to Leitmeritz, though there is no telling what will happen after that.”

He responded without hesitation. Though Tigre knew he was popular with women, he was impressed that he spoke without hesitation.

“Oh, like I thought, Tigre-san, Rurick.”

A voice was abruptly heard from outside the window. Aram and the others walked toward him with a smile on their face and a honeyed kabob or bread and jam in their hands.

“It looks like you're having fun.”

Tigre nodded and laughed. Aram thrust his face toward the window.

“Oh, cabbage. Mind if I try one?”


“How about some of your skewer then?”

“It's pigeon. It's pretty tough.”

Aram passed Tigre a kabob and pulled out a cabbage. Rurick looked bitterly at him.

“You shouldn't take advantage of Lord Tigrevurmud so much... He's not a prisoner anymore.”

It was true he was not a prisoner of war anymore, but since he had received the pigeon meat, Tigre remained quiet. It certainly was tough, but it had a deep flavor.

“This is delicious. Where do they sell it?”

“I'll show you. By the way, are you going to the Mansion after this, Tigre-san?”

“Man... Mansion...?”

Tension quickly appeared on Tigre's face. On the other hand, Rurick seemed interested.

“They have one in this village?”

“There's a sign showing worship of Yarito here. There aren't many people, and the girls don't look all that great, but it's cheap.”

Yarito was one of the divine Goddesses of both Brune and Zhcted who represented a good harvest and lust. Having her on a sign in the village showed there was a facility present.


“... Will you be able to leave the village in half a koku?”

Tigre said that for the time being.

“If it's half a koku, we probably can.”

Rurick gave his response. It seems he completely felt like going.

''--- Well, what should I do...''

Tigre knew the purpose of such Mansions. They were located even in the town of Celesta where his mansion was. He also saw them in the camps at Dinant, soliciting the soldiers.

However, Tigre and Ellen had given strict orders that prostitutes were never to be seen amongst the soldiers of the Silver Meteor. Rather than calling them fastidious, they were fearful the prostitutes may be a foreign spy, spread sickness, or deteriorate morale.

“So, what will you do, Tigre-san?”

Aram asked, pushing Tigre into a panic.

“No, I'm fine.”

The soldiers behind Aram began to whisper.

“Look, I told you. Tigre-san already can see his family.”

“That's right. He can always see Teita.”


“Also, our second in command never gets angry. The day before yesterday, no, maybe it was before that, she was tugging on Tigre-san's hair when he overslept.”

Certainly, his hair was pulled on, but when Teita and Lim's angry faces appeared in his head Ellen's face appeared as well.

He could not imagine it well. Rather than imagining Ellen scold him, he imagined her staring at him with an ill-humored expression. Her bright, red eyes surpassed rubies of the highest class.

He imagined Teita blotting out the tears in her hazelnut eyes while complaining to him. As for Lim, though she kept her mind and expression calm, her eyes would show her amazement, contempt, frustration, and dissatisfaction.

“... All of you want to spend the rest or your time like this?”

Ruffling his red hair, Tigre let out a deep sigh as he looked at the Zhcted soldiers.

“Still, while I won't say as much as Lim, I will admit this could lead to a disturbance in military discipline.”

Aram and the others looked at each other. Ignoring their reactions, Tigre continued to speak.

“Now, I feel like being alone, so I'll return to our meeting point. Rurick, I leave them in your care. I will say this once again. Do not cause trouble. Also, don't regret how you spend the money you worked hard to earn. Finally, you will remain on schedule and will not speak of this once we return – got it?”


Aram and the others saluted Tigre in a relaxed manner.

Tigre's words were an implicit sign of his permission. When he told them to not regret how they spent their money, he was telling them to choose a healthy person.

Since Tigre did not feel like joining them, he left Rurick to take charge of them; however, it was true he wanted to be alone so he could think about what Rurick said when he spoke of his troubles.

<big><big><big><big>◎</big></big></big></big>

Tigre rode his horse alone along the prairie at the end of the day. The sky was covered with gray clouds, the land dyed in shadows.

He suddenly recalled his conversation with Rurick and the others; he let out a deep sigh.

Tigre was a 16 year old man. It was not as if he lacked an interest in women.

However, as the lord of Alsace, his desire to hunt with his bow was greater, and now, he did not have the time to think about such things.


''--- That's right. I don't have the luxury.''

From the time he had met Marquis Greast, Tigre had thought about many things. He had not yet told them to anyone. It was closer to a desire than something he thought feasible.

''--- Dukes Tenardia and Ganelon, what can I do about their tyranny?''

It was not something for a small aristocrat like Tigre to be concerned with, but he could not help but think it was impossible to avoid battle with them. Such thoughts had lurked in his heart ever since he heard the rumors in the camps at Dinant.

''--- If the King recovers from his illness, it might be resolved for the time being.''

Still, Duke Tenardia still retained his grudge. Though it was an issue which should have been directed only at himself, it was a problem since it was aimed at all people in Alsace.

However, Tigre's thoughts ended here.

After he met with Ellen, Tigre's view of the world extended far beyond Alsace. Though his knowledge was something acquired from Lim's education, he could not take it all in stride. Even if he had a vague idea of what was in store for him in the future, that was his current limit.

The cold wind blew by Tigre, returning his thoughts.

''--- I'll reach the river soon.''


Though he was riding through the thicket on his horse, he should have been able to see ahead of him properly. Still, the sky had become dark. He should have been more careful.

With a few dozen strides to the river remaining, he stopped moving and took precaution.

''--- The sound of water...''

Though he could not see well from the bushes, he knew someone or something was there.

''--- It would be good if it was just a small animal coming for some water.''

When he thought that, he heard the sound of the water mix with the sound of the wind. The noise of something flapping tickled his ear; something was flying.

As he reached for the bow in his saddle, a black object came flying before his eyes. It was about the size of a puppy. Tigre caught it with both his hands as it stared at him intently.

Though it seemed to be jet black in the darkness, it had rusty green colored scales, a color he was familiar with. It had horns on the back of its head and wings similar to a bat on its back.

It was a dragon. A small, infant dragon, and it was the source of the strange sound he heard a moment ago – the sound of the dragon flying.

“You... Where have I seen you before.”

To calm his surprised horse, Tigre covered the young dragon. It looked like Ellen's pet dragon, but it should not have been in a place like this.


“You're definitely a distinct dragon... You're really meek, aren't you. I wonder if all baby dragons are like this.”

Tigre held the dragon in his hand. Though it had sharp eyes and looked as if it were appraising Tigre, it showed no signs of aggression.

“--- Lunie-chan?”

A woman's voice called out from somewhere. At that moment, the young dragon flapped its wings vigorously, its eyes wide open in fright. When he released his grip momentarily, the young dragon jumped on Tigre's back and placed its feet on his head, as if hiding its body.

Hearing that, a shadow appeared, shaking the nearby bushes.

“Lunie-cha---”

It was a woman. She was taller than Tigre and had eyes the color of a beryl and golden hair.

When her eyes met Tigre's, her eyes opened widely as she gasped at a loss for words. Tigre stared at her in surprise, unable to move.

She was not wearing a single piece of cloth and stood completely exposed, her body wet with water, to Tigre.

Her delicate shoulders, her ample bosom, her narrow hips, her long, slender legs.

After a silence of almost ten seconds, Tigre's brain managed to squeeze out some words.


“Cl, clothes...?”

However, his thought process was not normal.

As if reacting to Tigre's voice, the infant dragon's body began to shake. The woman, also reacting to his words, began moving.

“Lunie-chan!”

The woman kicked off the ground, chasing after it so it would not escape. She moved as if she had not noticed Tigre's presence and stumbled after her fourth step. With her posture broken, Tigre moved his arms out to catch her on reflex and fell embracing her.

Perhaps due to the chill of the river water, her cold body made him feel warm. He could clearly feel her soft skin and her two voluptuous bulges.

Though his back was to the ground, he barely felt it. With the majority of his consciousness taken away, he could not even think of anything else.

Though the two were mutually frozen, Tigre tried to move his hand somehow. His fingers brushed the glossy skin along her hips; a bewitching sound tickled Tigre's ear.

However, it had removed the tension. She finally sat up, drops of water spilling from her golden hair down her collarbone, collecting in the valley between her breasts.


Against the background of the night sky, her beautiful naked body stole his eyes once again. Though he wanted to offer his clothes so she could conceal herself, it was clearly impossible in this posture. Unable to do anything, he shut his eyes strongly and covered his face with his hand.

“Oh dear, I apologize.”

Her gentle voice fell from above; it was impossible for him not to hear it. When he thought he wanted to retreat, he heard a voice from a distance.

“Sophie? Since it's this dark, it will be hard to find Lunie...”

The voice broke off as footsteps approached. Tigre's instincts perceived an unprecedented danger. While Tigre wanted to escape immediately, the woman was still on top of him.

Though he may have been able to escape if he pushed her away, he could not muster any strength.

“--- Oh?”

Hearing a voice tinged with anger, Tigre felt a sense of hopelessness.

He was not scolded or hit.

Even so, contempt was clearly in her voice and gaze. Tigre felt it may have been better if he was beaten, since things had never been this painful.


In the tent of the high commander were five men and women: Tigre, Ellen, Lim, Teita, and Sophie. Tigre sat in a chair, half encircled by the others. He felt he should have gotten Ojie to join as well.

Still, the modest old Viscount was tired and was resting early. Though Tigre did not want him to overwork himself, he sincerely felt it was a failure on his part to allow him to leave early.

“Your training is not enough.”

Lim looked down at him with eyes clearly expressing contempt. Ellen, though not as much as Lim, also looked at him in anger and shock.

“You will die on the battlefield if you can't react quickly to a surprise. What would you do if a beautiful assassin came? Wouldn't you die then?”

“Tigre-sama...”

Teita had brought snacks for everyone. While pouring wine, Teita looked at Tigre in pity. She called out his name, clearly showing her mental state. It was harsh.

“It is a pleasure to meet you, Lord Tigrevurmud. I am one of the Vanadis, Sophia Obertas, the [{{furigana|Barrier of Evil Retreat|Taima no Futsukou}}]. You may call me Sophie.”


Ignoring the atmosphere, Sophie introduced herself with a kind smile, as if she were a goddess of ancient myth.

Her body was wrapped in a light green dress, her golden hair, now dry, gently waved. The various jewels decorating her body only added to her flower-like beauty.

Of the four women present, only she, the victim so to speak, spoke to him with kind words and gentle expressions. It was quite odd.

Lunie was held in her thin arms. The infant dragon with rusty green scales had lowered its limbs and no longer flapped its wings. It remained obedient like a doll; it had given up on running away.

''--- This person is definitely a Vanadis.''

Though different from Ellen and Ludmira, she was also a beautiful woman. She had an intimidating demeanor and remained calm before Tigre, despite having been seen naked. Tigre bowed his head and smiled in a carefree manner to calm his nerves.

“I am Tigrevurmud Vorn. I apologize for my rudeness before.”

“Oh my, I should be the one to thank you. You tried to catch me when I fell over.”

“It's a load off my mind if you say that.”

“It was my first time being held so closely by a gentleman, I was surprised. You made quite an impressive first impression.”


The Vanadis giggled, her golden hair shaking. Seeing her gaze directed toward his waist rather than his body, he felt he was unjustly suspected.

“So, why did you show up in a place like this?”

While fiddling with her silver hair, Ellen asked in a blunt voice.

“You don't know?”

Tigre asked Ellen in surprise. She was taking a bath in the river. Though he thought the conversation had concluded, it seems he was wrong.

“It seems you returned a half koku early.”

Though Ellen was curious about Sophie's sudden appearance, she was pleased to meet her again.

“I was surprised you took Lunie. Honestly, I didn't think Tigre would be back this early, so I gave you time to take a bath to wash off your sweat while we were waiting for him to get back. I didn't think this would happen.”

Ellen's words permitted no chances for him to speak, though the thorns in her words were less.

“My, I do so love Lunie-chan.”

Noticing her soften, Sophie tilted her head and looked at Ellen.

The last time the two had met was in the King's Capital of Zhcted, Celesta. Ellen had asked her a favor and promised she would let Sophie play with Lunie in return. Sophie loved dragons, especially this baby dragon which looked terrible.


“I got it. You can play with Lunie.”

Though he did not know what happened, Tigre felt a deep sympathy for the young dragon which was being held. It stared at Teita with an unusual interest.

“I came here with official duties from our country. His Majesty has become impatient with your absence, and he has heard an interesting story from Brune. He ordered I go as a messenger.”

“Messenger?”

“It happened a few days after we met, probably about ten days.”

Ellen sighed hearing Sophie's words.

“Impatient, is he... But is this really the sort of duty he should be giving to you?”

“Well, it was unavoidable.”

Sophie's gaze moved to her bishop's staff. The mysterious wand shot out circular rings which combined to form an elaborate golden pillar.

“My Zato should work better than yours, right?”

Tigre recognized the word referred to her staff, her [{{furigana|Dragonic Tool|Viralt}}].


''--- Certainly, it would be different if Ellen's sword or Ludmira's spear were sent as messengers.''

Sophie's staff appeared to have a lower war potential than any other [{{furigana|Dragonic Tool|Viralt}}]. It looked more like a sacred treasure than a weapon.

“Tigre. I'll tell you this now, but if you do anything to Sophie, she may very well hurt you badly. Though it will hurt being cut with a sword, it can be more painful if she crushes your bones.”

Tigre returned to his normal thoughts hearing Ellen's grumpy voice. Due to her gaze toward him, it was difficult for him to object.

“Oh my, Ellen is quite jealous. This is the first time I have seen this side of you.”

Ellen made a completely sulky face hearing Sophie's words which teased her.

“Jealous? Of course not. He was looking at you in a rude manner. Even you can't feel good about that.”

Placing an index finger to her mouth, Sophie continued to speak gently.

“True, he did see everything.”

Lim, who had remained silent until then, drank some wine. Teita wiped some she had spilled in a panic. Ellen's face was hard to comment on at all. Tigre simply bowed his head deeply.


“There is no need to worry so much. I was the one to stumble, after all. It was simply my first time sticking to a man---”

“... Sophia-sama. If possible, let us continue with the more serious business at hand.”

Interrupting Sophie's words, Lim clearly had an expression showing she was enduring a headache. Finally, Tigre and Ellen managed to pull their act together.

“Sophie. It seems you received word from the royal palace. I'm a bit anxious, since I assume you came to tell her she is not to interfere with Brune.”

When Tigre spoke, Sophie lowered her eyes and looked at him.

“... That is correct. Though it will hurt to say, the talks did not conclude well.”

“What do you mean?”

“The King of Brune, his majesty is currently ill and could not attend. Though we spoke to Prime Minister Bodwin, it seems the largest issue is your position.”

“Position?”

Tigre tilted his head. Ellen was the one to react.

“I was employed by Tigre. This matter should be irrelevant to Zhcted Kingdom.”


“Officially that is true, but they said [The Vanadis is after our territory].”

Sophie laughed and Ellen shrugged with a bitter smile. They heard she had requested his territory for his ransom.

“After that, there is a message they wished to convey to Lord Tigrevurmud.”

Without missing a beat, Sophie spoke her words accurately.

[In face of the sin of rebellion, Vorn has been deprived of all rights as a citizen of Brune, his title, and his family name. Alsace will be run directly by the King. Once the turmoil has settled, a magistrate will be sent from the King's Capital.]

“... Rebellion.”

Bringing his hand to his forehead, Tigre spoke that word deeply.

Though he imagined it to be so, his heart felt heavy knowing it was true; still, he was relieved the people under his charge had not been accused.

“Lord Tigrevurmud. A messenger from the royal palace will come one day. Other than myself, have you not heard from Lord Massas?”

“Huh?”

Tigre involuntarily uttered a sound. Lim and Teita looked to Sophie in wonder.


“You know Lord Massas name. No, may I ask how you know of Lord Massas?”

“Oh my, he did not tell you.”

Sophie looked on with a smile.

“I became acquainted with him in the King's Capital of Nice. He told me he would take his troops to Lord Tigrevurmud once he returned to his lands. Though I was thinking of coming to meet Ellen with him, I decided to come early since we were close. He should arrive tomorrow afternoon.”

<big><big><big><big>◎</big></big></big></big>

After dinner and the conference were finished, Tigre sat maintaining his bow.

Sophie had left after telling Batran, who was now sitting at Tigre's side, Massas was safe.

Ignoring the difference of status between nobleman and villager, both Batran and Massas had known each other from before Tigre was even born. Hearing of Massas' safety, the little old man was more happy than Tigre.


Once he finished his maintenance, Tigre noticed a gaze as he stood up.

“Did you need something, young lord?”

“No, there is nothing. I wished to get a bit of fresh air. You won't be going since it's this cold, will you?”

Tigre stopped the old man from standing with a joke.

“You should return at once. It won't do to have the commander catching a cold.”

“... I will keep that in mind.”

Tigre left the tent after waving his hand to Batran. Similarly, he waved to the soldiers on watch and began walking without any particular purpose.

His feet took him to a secluded area, the cold winter air and the light of the stars bathing down on Tigre. Massas was safe.

It was good news, but after walking this far, Tigre could still not feel truly happy.

“A traitor, am I...”

He murmured the words. When it came out in his voice, he felt his body tremble from the very core.

It was deemed he had taken arms against the Kingdom of Brune. No, it was not just himself but all the people who followed him.


''--- I won't lose now...!''

He clenched his teeth and grasped his fist tightly. The Tenardia Army had burned and devastated the town of his birth, and he had attacked the people he cherished. Though he had forced this unreasonable task upon them as their charge, they had followed him and supported each other.

He was doing this to protect them. He could not be negative.

He stared into the darkness, confirming his own determination.

“--- Who is it~?”

Suddenly, something covered his eyes as soon as the warm and calm voice hit his ears. Something soft hit Tigre's back, upon which he pulled away on reflex.

A sweet smell peculiar to a woman's skin stimulated his nose, her light voice touched his ear.

“So, Sophie...?”

Though they had only met today and had barely spoken to one another, with her pleasant and relaxed voice sounding in his ear, he could tell immediately.

After she removed her hands from Tigre's face and separated from him, he turned around to see her smile gently. Sophia Obertas stood before him with golden staff in hand.


“Was it really that easy?”

“You may say that, but there are only four women here, and ignoring all else, your voice is quite beautiful...”

While he answered, Tigre could not help but be wary of the Vanadis in the back of his mind.

He felt no signs. She wore a dress, but there were no sounds of it rustling.

Regardless of battle, she, too, was a Vanadis.

“Oh my, such flattery.”

Sophie gently pat Tigre's head with a smile. Though he often did it to Teita, Tigre felt embarrassed to have it done to himself.

Still, the feeling of her palm and the kindness and warmth in it felt good. Sophie did not stop with just one or two strokes, though. She continued even beyond thirty. As expected of her.

“Why are you here?”

“I wished to talk with you for a bit.”

Sophie obediently answered his question. She had seen Tigre leave his tent and secretly followed after him.

“It will not do if the commander goes out alone.”


Rather than scolding him, she spoke with a tone as if she were admonishing a child. Tigre thought to pull away, but Sophie did not notice. She continued to pat Tigre's hair as he looked at her in awkward embarrassment.

“So... What did you wish to speak with me about?”

The sound of her staff rang through the air as she looked up at the starry sky.

“... What is Ellen to you?”

''What are you saying so suddenly?'' Tigre wanted to say that, but swallowed his words. Sophie looked away from the sky and gazed straight at Tigre seriously, her smile now gone. Her beryl colored eyes displayed a strong will; she exuded an atmosphere that would allow no deception.

''No, ''Tigre released his tension immediately. ''There's no need to think about it. I only need to answer frankly.''

“For me, Ellen is my benefactor... and if I may be so impudent as to say it, my comrade-in-arms.”

“A comrade-in-arms?”

Sophie's bright eyes stared at him. Her staff shook and glittered gold, as if scattering the darkness. Tigre nodded thinking it a natural reaction.

If he had asked a person of Zhcted, they would consider Tigre Ellen's prisoner of war. To call the Vanadis a comrade would be nothing more than insolence.


However, he fought alongside Ellen.

He also used an abnormal power.

“Do you dislike Ellen?”

“Dislike?”

Tigre was bewildered hearing a question he had not expected. Sophie continued to speak.

“You are Ellen's prisoner.”

“Ellen lent me her soldiers.”

After giving a prompt answer, Tigre shrugged his shoulders, mischief bleeding from his eyes.

“Ellen calls me Tigre. I call her Ellen. I'm not particularly in the habit of calling people I dislike by their nicknames.”

When Sophie heard Tigre's words, she smiled brightly. It was a smile lit by the light from her staff; a smile attractive enough to fall in love with.

“It seems you really feel that way. I am relieved.”

“How do you know?”

“I cannot say I know. I simply believe. I saw your face, heard your words. “

Tigre thought she said it like a prayer a Shinto priest or shrine maiden might say. She had clearly seen through him and began to laugh.


“I have seen how Ellen and Lim see you. I have heard how your maid and the soldiers speak of you. Lord Massas Rodant has also told me of you... There was much for me to go on, but, in the end, your facial expressions, your voice, your behavior, those are what allow me to place my faith in you. You truly cherish Ellen.”

Without a sound, her golden hair and green dress fluttered as she walked before Tigre.

“You have become the center of attention even in Zhcted. Why has Ellen associated so much with you, who on earth is this Tigrevurmud Vorn, and so on.”

Her smile disappeared. At a distance of fewer than three steps from Tigre, Sophie stopped walking. It was a suitable distance for her staff.

“The most common rumor is that Ellen fell in love with you at a glance. That, too, is not impossible. The soldiers have never moved for an Earl of a neighboring country and thrust their neck into a civil war. You also fought Mira. How could it not be a large thing? That would be impossible.”

Tigre involuntarily turned his gaze to the black bow in his hands. Tigre did not understand the amazing power held in this bow. Still, there was something else that came from Tigre's mouth.

“Your actions when you were bathing, were you testing me?”


“I only tripped then.”

Tigre sincerely thought the woman who smiled with her head inclined was testing him, but it seems he was wrong.

“Still, that is not quite right. You said earlier Ellen was a comrade-in-arms, but those near to you do not necessarily see that. Half see you two as comrades, half see you as more of a pet.

''Is it better to be a prisoner of war or a pet?'' At the moment, Tigre was more anxious about another issue.

“If we had fallen in love... Would you have stopped Ellen?”

Sophie nodded slowly.

“That is correct. Whether it be as Vanadis or not, I think of Ellen as an important friend. Still, it is a big issue. As an aristocrat, even amongst your friends, do you not separate personal and private affairs?”

The Vanadis Ludmira appeared in Tigre's mind upon hearing her explanation. Their territories bordered one another and she was on bad relations with Ellen.

Even Tigre did not have the greatest of relations with some of the aristocracy in territories neighboring Alsace, but there was no conflict out of mutual interest.

“Ellen must not do anything rash based on her emotions. If necessary, I would have brought her back by force. I would have done the same should I have deemed you to have bound your fate too strongly to Ellen, since that could also be a problem.”


The rings of the staff made a cool sound as it was thrust before Tigre, but it was pulled back immediately. Sophie bowed before Tigre, her hands behind her back.

“But for now, I will place my faith in you. I leave Ellen in your care.”

“I understand.”

Tigre nodded strongly in reassurance.

“Though I said it a while ago, Ellen is my benefactor, my comrade-in-arms. I will absolutely defend her.”

Ellen was far more skillful in horsemanship and swordsmanship, and she had the silver blade Arifal. It may have been presumptuous to say he would protect her.

Even so, they were Tigre's true intentions. He was saved by the kindness of her and the people of her territory. Even if they fought each other as enemies, his days spent with her since they met in Dinant only solidified his determination.

“Thank you.”

Though simple, Sophie's words held much emotion.

After the two returned to the tent, Tigre immediately went to sleep having dispelled his hesitation. Sophie did not sleep, though.

She covered her body in a blanket and calmly sat outside, waiting for time to pass.


<big><big><big><big>◎</big></big></big></big>

The night grew old, many of the soldiers were asleep. Sophie and Ellen slipped out of the women's tent. Away from the soldiers' eyes, the two walked quickly, considering the risk should they have been heard.

“I did not think I would meet you in a place like this.”

Though there was neither moon nor stars in the sky, Sophie's Zato radiated a golden light. The cold night air was inhibited by the silver blade at Ellen's waist.

“Same here. If it were not for my meeting with Lord Massas, I would have returned to Zhcted this evening.”

“Why did you come? Though you came to see me, it doesn't exactly mean you're suspicious.”

Ellen looked doubtful. If he thought of Sophie's position as a messenger of Zhcted, it was far too dangerous to meet Ellen today.

“There are a few reasons. I wished to speak to Lord Tigrevurmud whom you so fondly speak of having love affairs with. I was also worried about you and wondered if you had prepared a means of escape.”


“I don't remember talking about love affairs with Tigre.”

Ellen replied with a sharp answer. Sophie smiled in amusement and giggled. She held Ellen closely and stroked her silver-white hair.

“He really is cute. He resembles Lunie-chan a little.”

“... You never praise people.”

Ellen shook off Sophie's arms and looked at her. Her shoulders were shaking in laughter.

When Sophie looked up, she held a serious expression. The future conversation was the reason she left the camp specifically.

“Elizavetta seems to have deep ties to both Dukes Ganelon and Tenardia.”

Ellen's bright red eyes shined strongly. Elizavetta was yet another Vanadis. Ellen strongly disliked her and evaluated her poorly.

“I cannot tell you much about Valentina, but her territory is the furthest from Brune, so I do not believe she has an intimate association with them. Olga is missing.”

“Missing?”


“She left on a journey with her {{furigana|Dragonic Tool|Viralt}} and left only a letter behind.”

Ellen stood with her mouth half open, unable to say anything for a while.

Valentina and Olga were both Vanadis; however, Ellen had only met them once or twice and was not familiar with their personalities.

“... Has the Dragonic Tool abandoned Olga?”

Sophie simply shrugged her shoulders, as it seemed like it was possible to have happened.

“There is no telling what a Dragonic Tool thinks. There was that time with Sasha as well...”

Sophie shook her head, her golden hair waving, as Ellen frowned.

“Any news on Sasha?”

“There have been no changes... though that is only from when I last left Zhcted.”

Ellen's eyes sank. Sasha – Alexandra – was also a Vanadis, and she was someone who could be called Ellen's partner and best friend. She had an illness that affected her body, even before the two had met. Even with that, Ellen was only to defeat Sasha with the sword only once.

“Sasha would not wish for you to worry about her. It is true she cannot be cured, but I doubt she would want you to stop for that.”

Sophie spoke to Ellen with care. Realizing this, Ellen bowed her head in assent.


“For the time being, you need to keep your thoughts on Elizavetta.”

Elizavetta's territory was far from Leitmeritz which Ellen governed. Though it is unlikely problems would occur like they had with Ludmira, it was best to take precaution.

“Also, I apologize. Regarding the dragons used by Duke Tenardia, I have not yet found anything.”

“There's no need to find out immediately. Do as you see fit.”

“Thank you. I am glad I came here nonetheless. I was able to see that man you have such interest in.”

Sophie slouched a little as she laughed, her bishop's staff swaying, a golden light spilling from the tip.

“Like I told you, with his upbringing, it would be disgraceful---”

“Yet you still spend so much time together?”

Rather than it being a slip of the tongue, it felt like she was stopped while she had taken a deep breath. Ellen began to speak to deny her accusations as she turned her head away, but she could find no words to say; she was hesitant to deny it. So she changed the topic.

“... So what did you think of Tigre when you met him?”


“He is such a lovely child. Though serious, he is honest.”

''I already knew that, ''Ellen muttered in her mind.

''--- It can't be helped. They met only half a day ago... No, perhaps she heard stories of him before she came here.''

Incidentally, it had been about half a koku since Sophie and Tigre had spoken.

“Ah, but...”

Sophie began to speak more.

“Though he has a solid appearance, I cannot find anything particularly noteworthy in him. I do not understand why you choose to help him, so I am a bit curious about him.”

“I haven't heard those words in a while.”

Though the golden haired Vanadis expressed interest in everything because she was curious, she rarely spoke of it. When she purposely said it, it meant she had a considerably strong degree of interest. The last time Ellen heard those words was when she spoke about Lunie.”

“I'll tell you now, though. That guy is mine.”

“It really is love, after all.”

“... We have a contract.”

“If it is simply a contract, then you should not mind lending him to me for a bit. I will make sure to return him; of course, he will be washed properly if I get him a little dirty.”


Thinking about her nature, Ellen looked at Sophie in amazement.

“Don't approach Tigre while you're here. It's too dangerous.”

She spoke those joking words seriously as the two spoke of him as if he were an object to be used.

<big><big><big><big>◎</big></big></big></big>

Tigre was able to invite the next morning in a calm manner, the first time in a long while.

Based on their victory over Marquis Greast and Sophie's words, Massas would appear today.

''--- I'm worried about leading the soldiers. The audience did not go well. If that's the case, what will I do next...''

The King knew of the situation, and, currently, all roads other than war had disappeared. Still, it was good that Massas was safe.

He was a close friend to his late father and a reliable adviser who took care of him in a variety of ways. His role could not be replaced by Teita, Batran, Ellen, or Lim.

He changed his clothes and left the tent to wash his face.


“... What?”

Though the early morning air of the camp was filled with silence, the atmosphere still felt noisy. As he approached Ellen's tent, he saw Batran run from a distance. Having found Tigre, Batran relaxed his tense, wrinkle-filled face. He ran to Tigre, out of breath, then inhaled deeply before speaking.

“Lord, the enemy is stationed to the west, approximately fifteen or sixteen belsta away.”

“The enemy?”

His peaceful morning had been disturbed early.

The soldiers, after having a quick breakfast, hastily vacated the camp. Inside Tigre's tent were four people – Tigre, Ellen, Lim, and Ojie. Ellen thought to call Sophie but hesitated. After all, she was still an outsider.

“They're different. They're the Navarre Army...”

Viscount Ojie confirmed the scout's report and had a grim expression.

“I wish to confirm this. How is the Knighthood of Brune different from their soldiers?”

Seeing Ojie's tense countenance, Ellen tilted her head in doubt.


“The Knights of Brune have received a trial.”

After wetting his throat with wine, Ojie continued his explanation.

“The Knights are well versed in the military arts and culture. Their military arts are focused on the art of the sword, spear, and equestrian skills; their culture is based on the spirit of Knighthood, reading and writing, strategy, and heraldry. Once a year, they undergo a trial to measure these abilities in the King's Capital, and those who pass this trial may become a Knight.”

After taking a deep breath, Ojie's expression became even more deep.

“The Navarre Knights that approach us now are lead by Roland, the [Black Knight] said to be the strongest in Brune.”

Tigre reacted for the first time. He understood Ojie's attitude.

“I have heard of Roland as well.”

A sound of admiration leaked from Ellen's mouth. Her bright red eyes shined with interest.

“Even Tigre has heard of him in his rural town. His strength sounds interesting.”

“Roland took the trial and became a Knight at the age of 13. Though his skill in culture was appropriate for his age, his military skills far surpassed expectations. Though there were many others who aspired to Knighthood, all of whom had considerable influence, Roland confronted them all and took victory.”


A 13 year old boy who defeated many experienced knights. This elicited a bitter reaction from both Ellen and Lim.

“That seems a bit too much to believe...”

“It is a fact.”

Ojie's tone made it impossible not to believe.

“After reaching the peak, Roland had yet to lose. He emerged victorious from the kingdom sponsored games for three consecutive years, and he always defeated the enemy when he came out on the battlefield. His Majesty was quite pleased with him and appointed him leader of the Navarre Knights. The same year, he gave him the Kingdom's sacred blade, Durandal.”

At this point, Ojie frowned, his body was visibly shaking.

“The Knights of Navarre have their fortress established along the most important place on the Western Border where Brune meets Sachstein and Asvarre.”

“The border disputes have never ended there.”

Ojie nodded gravely to Lim's doubtfully asked question.

“He is no stranger to skirmishes with forces exceeding ten thousand in number, so all his soldiers are accustomed to war. Roland has led the Knights of Navarre through these battles for more than a year.”


“... I see.”

At last, Ellen looked serious. In a place where one devotes his time to fight every day, the leader could not be a halfway capable individual.

“But why are they here?”

Tigre raised a question.

“The Knights of the Kingdom swear allegiance to His Majesty. They swear upon their honor before the gods and fundamentally accept commands only from the King...”

“It is difficult to believe His Majesty gave this order. Most likely either Dukes Tenardia or Ganelon managed to mobilize him in some way.”

“It does not matter. Make preparations to fight against those that come to us. We cannot solve this only with vigilance.”

Ellen spoke. Ojie bowed deeply in gratitude.

A messenger was sent out for negotiation but came back dejected after only a half koku.

“Their answer was [We will not exchange words with the enemy. We will only accept surrender], and [If you wish to surrender, throw away all your arms].”


“So we must surrender if we wish to talk.”

“That's a new one.”

Ellen was impressed with the enemy general's blunt attitude. Her bright red pupils were filled with the urge to fight. A smile floated to her mouth, and the air around them stirred, as if the long sword Arifal was reacting to her will.

On the other side, Tigre, Ojie, and Lim wore expressions as if they had headaches. They looked at each other. It was not the time for this kind of talk.

“Send a messenger from me.”

Tigre chose two people from Alsace from amongst his soldiers and had them go to the Knights. If they could not enter a negotiation still, they would at least be able to form a consensus. To this end, they were buying time for Massas to arrive.

However, the results did not change. They were pushed away without receiving a single word.

“They didn't even listen to us.”

They solemnly reported to Tigre. The four briefly conferred and finished their meeting.

Ellen and Lim left the tent to gather the Zhcted Army. At that point, Ojie's son, Gerard, entered.


“Are you well, Earl Vorn, Father?”

After the viscount nodded, several men appeared with Gerard; they were Brune aristocrats who were cooperating with Viscount Ojie.

“Earl Vorn, will you please explain the situation.”

What seemed the most senior of the men advanced. He appeared to be in his mid forties, his large body was wrapped in hempen clothes and a fur mantle. He, too, was a viscount, just like Ojie.

“Our enemies were Dukes Tenardia and Ganelon. Why is it that the Knights of the Sword has come to us?”

Tigre was hesitant to say he was branded a rebel; however, before Tigre opened his mouth, Viscount Ojie laughed and answered.

“It seems they saw the Zhcted Army and believe we are leading a rebellion. It seems they will not listen to us lest we surrender.”

The men were shaken.

“Then it is necessary that we throw aside our arms to speak. The Knights of Navarre are led by Roland. We have no chance of victory.”

“They are Knights. They are different from Duke Tenardia; surely they would understand should you say you are protecting yourself. If we surrender our weapons, they will listen to us. Surely they will understand our position should we explain Sir Tenardia's cruelty.”


One person spoke, probably following the momentum of the conversation.

“How do you propose we do this? Do you believe the Zhcted Army will throw aside their weapons?”

Tigre asked them with an indifferent voice as he spoke.

“No matter who we may cooperate with, it will be the blood of Brune that flows.”

Tigre read their minds.

''--- First the Zhcted Army... Now they wish to rely on the Knights of Navarre.''

He did not know what they knew. Though the Zhcted Army was helping Tigre and Ojie to defend their territories, it was not so for them. They were defending themselves from Duke Tenardia and were looking for people they could trust to defend them.

“If you wish, please leave the battlefield. You may cross the river to the north or through the forest to the south. I do not care. You may discard your weapons there and speak the Navarre Knights. However...”

Tigre continued with a stronger tone.

“I do not believe the Navarre Knights will protect you from Duke Tenardia. If I were to surrender, then the Zhcted Army would simply return to their lands and the Navarre Knighthood would return to the west to defend the borders of Brune.”


“No, to say that...”

Tigre took a step toward the man who wished to say something.

“The cruelty of Dukes Tenardia and Ganelon did not start yesterday. The Knights appeared today. Has anyone in Brune denounced them?”

“That's... But the Knights only move by His Majesty's command...”

“Honestly, this is exactly why we are placing our faith in the Zhcted Army.”

Hearing the man speak, Ojie stepped in to calm the situation down. Tigre was aware he was losing his patience and stepped back to allow Ojie to take his place.

“Your fear of fighting the Knights of Navarre is justified; however, I can only think this is a result of Duke Tenardia's plans. By using them, he can manipulate how the Zhcted Army moves. Really, Tenardia is a troublesome opponent.”

Tigre and Ojie were not speaking in a particularly nasty manner, they were simply stating facts. The men turned pale, unable to counter them.

In half a koku, the Silver Meteor finished lining up in the center of the Orange Plains.

For the time being, there were no signs of backing down.

<noinclude>
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"
|-
| Back to [[Madan_no_Ou_to_Vanadis:Volume_03_Chapter_2_Preview|Chapter 2 Preview]]
| Return to [[Madan_no_Ou_to_Vanadis|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Madan_no_Ou_to_Vanadis:Volume_03_Chapter_4_Preview|Chapter 4 Preview]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Madan no Ou to Vanadis:Volume 03 Chapter 3 - MTL

2012-10-29T04:26:35Z

155.69.203.2: /* {{furigana|Brilliant Princess of Illustrious Light|Presuvet}} */

<noinclude>{{Template:PREVIEW}}</noinclude>
=== {{furigana|Brilliant Princess of Illustrious Light|Presuvet}} ===
North of the Orange Plains, beyond the river, several villages dotted the surroundings amidst a sea of vast vineyards. The time of the harvest had passed; the earth had a dreary color and was filled with branches barren of all leaves.

Perhaps it was also because of the weather; the mid-afternoon sky was covered in gray clouds.

''--- It's not raining. Even if it doesn't today, it will tomorrow. How troublesome.''

While riding on horseback along a path through the vineyards, Tigre looked up at the dim sky.

Tigre was visiting the largest village in the area, Saunier. He was amongst ten people without armor; at most, they were dressed lightly wearing only swords at their waist. Since they were all battle hardened, they were a strong fighting force.

“Rather than a village, it feels like a small town.”

Rurick advanced to ride next to Tigre and spoke his thoughts as he looked at the landscape of Saunier. Tigre also returned words of consent.

From above, the village was shaped like a circle. It was surrounded by a stone wall to an adult's height, and the gates were made of three pieces of thick, laminated oak planks, each at one of four corners of the town. They were painted with plaster to protect against fire.


“Saunier is the center of all the local villages.”

Ojie looked on while continuing the explanation. Given how relaxed he looked, it must have been a peaceful village.

“Most village meetings are done here. There is also an open market here, though there are villages closer to the highways than Saunier.”

There were many purposes for Tigre's visit to Saunier. One was to grant some sense of relief to the people by having Ojie, their feudal lord, appear. Another was to confirm the situation amongst the villages, and a third reason was to determine their future actions.

“Oh, you seem to be in a good mood. Tigre-san, are we staying here any longer?”

While looking at the stalls which sold fish-kebabs, a man standing next to Rurick heard him speak. He brushed his disheveled brown hair aside in a clumsy manner, showing his profile. He had a somewhat mischievous expression.

The man's name was Aram and was a member of the Zhcted Army. When Tigre was a captive, he had played a variety of games such as chess, cards, and ninepin.

“It will be just a little longer. Viscount Ojie ad I will be heading to the meeting place first.”

He responded to Aram's question made in slight jest; some laughter sounded from the surrounding men.


If he had come only to confirm the safety of the village, even with attendants, Tigre would only have required five people.

The reason he came with ten people was due to the existence of Aram's scouting unit.

Although Ellen had ten people scouting the Orange Plains, it was Aram's group of five which discovered the Ganelon Army.

This morning, Tigre called for them and praised them for their distinguished services.

“Although you helped immensely, there is little I can do. Still, I would like to do what I can for you, so long as it is within my abilities.”

Aram responded by saying, “There is a village one koku away. We would like to rest there if possible.”

In a situation in which he did not know whether Massas would appear and with their movements about Orange Plains limited, it was a considerably unreasonable demand. While Aram spoke in a light hearted manner, Tigre took him seriously.

However, Tigre knew Viscount Ojie would attend a meeeting at Saunier in the morning before he called for them.

“Though it is necessary to receive Viscount Ojie's approval, I believe we can go there without armor.”

When he told them Ojie had consented, they acted happily like children, despite nearing the age of thirty. They had now advanced ahead of Tigre and were looking about in interest.


The streets were flat and average in size. There were fences and pillars found at crossroads, and the streets were lined with rows of stone, brick, and slate houses with circular chimneys.

Children were scribbling on the ground or running about gardens.

Everywhere they looked, the village gave off a rustic impression, but with how well built the gate, tavern, and general store were, it was clear this village had many travelers.

“Although it was true of Tigre-san's land of Alsace, this place also makes me feel that Brune life is not so different from ours.”

“I know what you're talking about. I thought it would be more like Muozinel.”

“Let's eat for the time being. Then we can look for women. I haven't seen a beautiful woman in a long time.”

“That's a good idea. I'd like a good bed, too.”

While listening to the soldiers happily conversing, Tigre arrived at the meeting point.

It was a private house approximately three times the average household in the area, built with stone and bricks; its roof was made of clay.


While helping Viscount Ojie dismount his horse, Tigre spoke to Aram and the others.

“You have one and a half koku to do as you wish. Make sure to avoid trouble.”

Hearing they would have time to themselves, their looks changed. They turned and ran without looking back.

Rurick watched in amazement as he watched them leave his sight before shrugging his shoulders.

“Rurick, you can go as well. We will be fine, so why not go join Aram?”

“Thank you for your kind words, but Vanadis-sama and Lord Limlisha would surely kill me if I do.”

Though Rurick spoke jokingly, his eyes were serious.

“Then Batran, you may go relax.”

Even if three people decreased to two, it was not particularly significant, and he would not have much to do if he remained.

Viscount Ojie's subordinates accompanied him. Tigre and Rurick passed through the entrance to the meeting place inside the large stone building.

A wool carpet lay at the center of the room with a long table and chairs placed on top. Enshrined in the back wall were statues of the ten Gods.


After greeting all the gathered village leaders, Tigre sat in his seat. Ojie was the primary speaker, so Tigre simply remained silent and listened.

Though there were no special conversations in particular, he was able to confirm the good news that there was no damage. The story ended in half a koku and the meeting was disbanded.

''--- No information on the King's Capital...''

Though it did not show on Tigre's face, he was slightly disappointed.

For those who do not leave their village,travelers and merchants are precious sources of information and entertainment from the outside world. Hotel rooms and meals were offered to them, and the number of villagers requesting to speak to them was hardly a few.

Though Tigre expected to receive some form of information on the King's Capital, nothing was spoken. It ended in a miss.

“It ended early.”

After leaving the meeting place, Rurick scratched his bald head while watching the surroundings. It has only been half a koku since Aram and his men left. They won't be back for a while.

“I wonder if I should have arranged for a room to rest at or not.”

Ojie smiled wryly as he stroked his chin. Though the village chiefs offered a feast and bedding arrangements, they were planning to return quickly. Though he could call them back and have it arranged, Ojie was not a domineering lord.


“I will find a place to rest. Viscount Ojie, you should return to camp early and take a break.”

“If you say so. Earl Vorn, you should also take a break. Even if it is only one koku, it will help you relax.”

“No, I...”

Tigre spoke hesitantly and shook his head softly to the old Viscount. Ojie nodded with a smile. It was a modest attitude characteristic of a person with much modesty; still, it helped Tigre relax.

“I suppose so. Thank you.”

Thanking him, Tigre and Rurick left the old Viscount.

“What do you want to do, Rurick?”

“If I might have permission, I would first like some alcohol. Either wine or a honey sake would be nice to have.”

“I suppose so. Let's go look for a bar.”

“The inn and general store and the tavern are near the gate. I saw many people entering, and the signboard had a wine bottle. I believe there were many cheerful voices there as well.”


The inside was not particularly wide, and the fire was not lit since there were lamps and the windows were all wide open. Along the shelves were bottles of various shapes and sizes.

Half the seats were filed. Tigre and Rurick went deeper into the shop and sat at a table near the window. A fat, middle aged woman came to take their order.

“Did you want some beer? If you want, we can make you something light to eat as well.”

They ordered some bread and cheese and pickled cabbage to eat.

Soon afterward, pitchers filled to the brim with alcohol and plates with their food was placed before them.

After a toast, Rurick drank his drink quickly.

“A good alcohol. Do you like it?”

“It's not bad. It's light and has a good flavor.”

While cheerfully ordering another bear, Rurick reached for the pickled cabbage. After taking a bite, he let out a sound showing his interest. Though Tigre also tried the pickles, he did not find them as interesting.

“What's wrong?”

“Nothing. Though it looks the same, the taste is different from the one of my lands.”


“Same here. It tasted different from when I ate them in Leitmeritz.”

It was not limited to these dishes. Whether it be the bread or soup, though they looked the same, they had a different flavor. Tigre thought it somewhat refreshing; apparently Rurick did as well.

“Still, it is quite good on its own.”

Rurick spoke in a somewhat exaggerated manner seeing Tigre suddenly frown.

“You're looking quite glum.”

“Oh? I didn't think it was that easy to see.”

Tigre gave a noncommittal answer as he gazed at the scenery outside the window, though the bald man did not pay any heed.

“Don't make that face and just have a drink... is what I'd like to say, but given your worries, I suppose you can't think about drinking. Well, if you can talk about your worries, then feel free to talk.”

Tigre looked steadily at Rurick hearing his unexpected words and smiled.

“I thought about this before, but why did you decide to follow me in there earlier?”

Rurick smiled in a pretentious manner.


“Are you anxious?”

Tigre nodded, seemingly with his entire body. Rurick answered after taking a large drink.

“If it's an embarrassing story, so I may need to drink a bit more. Simply put, I need to relax some.”

Rurick continued happily as he nibbled on some cheese.

“Before I met you, I was the number one archer of Leitmeritz with a record of two hundred-seventy alsin. I had never met anyone within Zhcted who could shoot any further than that. Even in the King's Capital of Celesta, the furthest distance anyone could possibly reach was three hundred alsin.”

Rurick continued speaking conceited words.

On the continent, it is said the maximum range of a bow is approximately two hundred-fifty alsin (approximately two hundred-fifty meters). The average archer could not even reach one hundred-fifty.

“But you... in that kind of situation, normally you could not even pull out half your abilities. Still, you used such a terrible bow and aimed accurately at the leg of a human running along the ramparts, and you're five years younger than me... There were many things that were destroyed in that moment. In the end, you spared my life.”


It was a story of when Tigre had just become Ellen's captive. One might think it was an old story given how Tigre and Rurick were recalling that time while drinking beer.

“I found you interesting when I talked to you.”

“Thanks for that.”

Hearing a somewhat crooked compliment, Tigre obediently gave his words of thanks. Though both had been drinking, it was still a bit embarrassing.

“By the way, what's worrying you?”

Rurick returned to topic after ordering his third drink. Though his breath was tinged with the smell of alcohol, he looked earnestly at Tigre.

“I suppose I'll ask you seriously – The Zhcted soldiers are following me, but is that really okay?”

“Frankly speaking, that's a difficult question.”

Though his tone was serious, Tigre was at a loss for words. He was ruffling his red hair to reflect that.

“--- Every night, I look at the sky. The empty sky here is different from the empty sky of Alsace. When I remember the night sky I saw in Leitmeritz, it feels so distant.”


He was far from his hometown, continuing a battle in a cold plain during the winter.

They must have been tired both physically and mentally. Although Ellen was commanding them, should it not be for battle, they may have thrown all aside and gone home. Tigre asked himself these questions once again when Aram pointed out his desire to rest in the village.

These doubts could not be cleared by Ellen or Lim, which is why he spoke to Rurick.

It is because he was a soldier. Though he acted as Tigre's escort at times like today, he was still one amongst thousands of soldiers he would command in battle. Basically, Rurick worked hard on a daily basis and was fundamentally no different from the other soldiers.

Tigre wanted to have a look at the soldiers that day. He wanted to hear their views and welcomed them to speak without reserve.

“You're thinking too much.”

Rurick dismissed Tigre's worries.

“Vanadis-sama's predecessor lasted for a short two years. Anyone who lasts more than five years is considered to have lasted a long time. In Leitmeritz, we always follow whatever expedition they may undertake. So long as the soldiers have food and a salary, their morale will not fall.”

“And what of an enemy attack?”


“We only need to follow Vanadis-sama. Batran-san said the people of Alsace have a fear of fighting; they lack the courage and will to fight. However, they fought because of their leader. In other words, they fought because they believed in you.”

“I see... So that's how it is.”

Tigre finished his drink in a single gulp and let out a deep breath.

“Are you feeling better after hearing what I said?”

“Yeah, thanks.”

If the number of soldiers had been switched, that is, if soldiers of Brune outnumbered those of Zhcted, their battle in Alsace may have been different.

Of course, Ellen and Lim commanded Zhcted's soldiers while Ojie commanded Brune's soldiers.

Many people had gathered together.

Even then, Tigre was the head commander. There were many things he needed to know, needed to learn. It was necessary for him to learn the ways of countries other than Brune and Alsace in order to gain trust.

“You don't need to worry. We're fine as we are. By the way---”

Rurick lowered in tone unexpectedly.

“Lord Tigrevurmud. There is one more thing I would like to ask you.”


“What?”

Tigre had released his attention in his moment of relief. He began to drank his beer as he prompted Rurick to continue speaking.

“Between Lord Limlisha and Miss Teita, who would you choose?”

Tigre spat his beer out slightly.

“Wha, where is this coming from?”

“It's a bit of a hot topic. It seems spring has come for that cold bit... Excuse me, that was rude of me. It must be the alcohol. I mean that strict lady”

“... You see her and I in that way?”

Though he did not realize he was looking down and was slightly agitated, Tigre carefully asked.

“I honestly don't know. However, Limlisha, as Vanadis-sama's adjutant, has never been close to another man. That's why there's a rumor that she speaks easily with Lord Tigrevurmud. Teita goes without saying.”

Though Rurick responded as if it was someone else's concern, his eyes clearly showed his interest.

“It seems people are making bets as well. Will you choose Limlisha? Or will you choose Teita? Incidentally,since you are an aristocrat, there has been suggestions of you choosing both.”

Tigre felt a headache and began scratching his head. He could not afford to think about such things when dealing with Tenardia and Ganelon.


Besides, following his contract, both he and Alsace belonged to Ellen, even if it was a verbal promise.

At the moment, Ellen had not made a declaration. Though ambiguous, their relationship could not remain as it is indefinitely. Still, it was a relationship far from love when he thought about it.

“By the way, if we bring peace to Alsace, what will you do?”

While Tigre was trying to think of a response to his blunt opponent's question, which had sealed all means of escape. He decided to go with that.

“Me? I will return to Leitmeritz, though there is no telling what will happen after that.”

He responded without hesitation. Though Tigre knew he was popular with women, he was impressed that he spoke without hesitation.

“Oh, like I thought, Tigre-san, Rurick.”

A voice was abruptly heard from outside the window. Aram and the others walked toward him with a smile on their face and a honeyed kabob or bread and jam in their hands.

“It looks like you're having fun.”

Tigre nodded and laughed. Aram thrust his face toward the window.

“Oh, cabbage. Mind if I try one?”


“How about some of your skewer then?”

“It's pigeon. It's pretty tough.”

Aram passed Tigre a kabob and pulled out a cabbage. Rurick looked bitterly at him.

“You shouldn't take advantage of Lord Tigrevurmud so much... He's not a prisoner anymore.”

It was true he was not a prisoner of war anymore, but since he had received the pigeon meat, Tigre remained quiet. It certainly was tough, but it had a deep flavor.

“This is delicious. Where do they sell it?”

“I'll show you. By the way, are you going to the Mansion after this, Tigre-san?”

“Man... Mansion...?”

Tension quickly appeared on Tigre's face. On the other hand, Rurick seemed interested.

“They have one in this village?”

“There's a sign showing worship of Yarito here. There aren't many people, and the girls don't look all that great, but it's cheap.”

Yarito was one of the divine Goddesses of both Brune and Zhcted who represented a good harvest and lust. Having her on a sign in the village showed there was a facility present.


“... Will you be able to leave the village in half a koku?”

Tigre said that for the time being.

“If it's half a koku, we probably can.”

Rurick gave his response. It seems he completely felt like going.

''--- Well, what should I do...''

Tigre knew the purpose of such Mansions. They were located even in the town of Celesta where his mansion was. He also saw them in the camps at Dinant, soliciting the soldiers.

However, Tigre and Ellen had given strict orders that prostitutes were never to be seen amongst the soldiers of the Silver Meteor. Rather than calling them fastidious, they were fearful the prostitutes may be a foreign spy, spread sickness, or deteriorate morale.

“So, what will you do, Tigre-san?”

Aram asked, pushing Tigre into a panic.

“No, I'm fine.”

The soldiers behind Aram began to whisper.

“Look, I told you. Tigre-san already can see his family.”

“That's right. He can always see Teita.”


“Also, our second in command never gets angry. The day before yesterday, no, maybe it was before that, she was tugging on Tigre-san's hair when he overslept.”

Certainly, his hair was pulled on, but when Teita and Lim's angry faces appeared in his head Ellen's face appeared as well.

He could not imagine it well. Rather than imagining Ellen scold him, he imagined her staring at him with an ill-humored expression. Her bright, red eyes surpassed rubies of the highest class.

He imagined Teita blotting out the tears in her hazelnut eyes while complaining to him. As for Lim, though she kept her mind and expression calm, her eyes would show her amazement, contempt, frustration, and dissatisfaction.

“... All of you want to spend the rest or your time like this?”

Ruffling his red hair, Tigre let out a deep sigh as he looked at the Zhcted soldiers.

“Still, while I won't say as much as Lim, I will admit this could lead to a disturbance in military discipline.”

Aram and the others looked at each other. Ignoring their reactions, Tigre continued to speak.

“Now, I feel like being alone, so I'll return to our meeting point. Rurick, I leave them in your care. I will say this once again. Do not cause trouble. Also, don't regret how you spend the money you worked hard to earn. Finally, you will remain on schedule and will not speak of this once we return – got it?”


Aram and the others saluted Tigre in a relaxed manner.

Tigre's words were an implicit sign of his permission. When he told them to not regret how they spent their money, he was telling them to choose a healthy person.

Since Tigre did not feel like joining them, he left Rurick to take charge of them; however, it was true he wanted to be alone so he could think about what Rurick said when he spoke of his troubles.

<big><big><big><big>◎</big></big></big></big>

Tigre rode his horse alone along the prairie at the end of the day. The sky was covered with gray clouds, the land dyed in shadows.

He suddenly recalled his conversation with Rurick and the others; he let out a deep sigh.

Tigre was a 16 year old man. It was not as if he lacked an interest in women.

However, as the lord of Alsace, his desire to hunt with his bow was greater, and now, he did not have the time to think about such things.


''--- That's right. I don't have the luxury.''

From the time he had met Marquis Greast, Tigre had thought about many things. He had not yet told them to anyone. It was closer to a desire than something he thought feasible.

''--- Dukes Tenardia and Ganelon, what can I do about their tyranny?''

It was not something for a small aristocrat like Tigre to be concerned with, but he could not help but think it was impossible to avoid battle with them. Such thoughts had lurked in his heart ever since he heard the rumors in the camps at Dinant.

''--- If the King recovers from his illness, it might be resolved for the time being.''

Still, Duke Tenardia still retained his grudge. Though it was an issue which should have been directed only at himself, it was a problem since it was aimed at all people in Alsace.

However, Tigre's thoughts ended here.

After he met with Ellen, Tigre's view of the world extended far beyond Alsace. Though his knowledge was something acquired from Lim's education, he could not take it all in stride. Even if he had a vague idea of what was in store for him in the future, that was his current limit.

The cold wind blew by Tigre, returning his thoughts.

''--- I'll reach the river soon.''


Though he was riding through the thicket on his horse, he should have been able to see ahead of him properly. Still, the sky had become dark. He should have been more careful.

With a few dozen strides to the river remaining, he stopped moving and took precaution.

''--- The sound of water...''

Though he could not see well from the bushes, he knew someone or something was there.

''--- It would be good if it was just a small animal coming for some water.''

When he thought that, he heard the sound of the water mix with the sound of the wind. The noise of something flapping tickled his ear; something was flying.

As he reached for the bow in his saddle, a black object came flying before his eyes. It was about the size of a puppy. Tigre caught it with both his hands as it stared at him intently.

Though it seemed to be jet black in the darkness, it had rusty green colored scales, a color he was familiar with. It had horns on the back of its head and wings similar to a bat on its back.

It was a dragon. A small, infant dragon, and it was the source of the strange sound he heard a moment ago – the sound of the dragon flying.

“You... Where have I seen you before.”

To calm his surprised horse, Tigre covered the young dragon. It looked like Ellen's pet dragon, but it should not have been in a place like this.


“You're definitely a distinct dragon... You're really meek, aren't you. I wonder if all baby dragons are like this.”

Tigre held the dragon in his hand. Though it had sharp eyes and looked as if it were appraising Tigre, it showed no signs of aggression.

“--- Lunie-chan?”

A woman's voice called out from somewhere. At that moment, the young dragon flapped its wings vigorously, its eyes wide open in fright. When he released his grip momentarily, the young dragon jumped on Tigre's back and placed its feet on his head, as if hiding its body.

Hearing that, a shadow appeared, shaking the nearby bushes.

“Lunie-cha---”

It was a woman. She was taller than Tigre and had eyes the color of a beryl and golden hair.

When her eyes met Tigre's, her eyes opened widely as she gasped at a loss for words. Tigre stared at her in surprise, unable to move.

She was not wearing a single piece of cloth and stood completely exposed, her body wet with water, to Tigre.

Her delicate shoulders, her ample bosom, her narrow hips, her long, slender legs.

After a silence of almost ten seconds, Tigre's brain managed to squeeze out some words.


“Cl, clothes...?”

However, his thought process was not normal.

As if reacting to Tigre's voice, the infant dragon's body began to shake. The woman, also reacting to his words, began moving.

“Lunie-chan!”

The woman kicked off the ground, chasing after it so it would not escape. She moved as if she had not noticed Tigre's presence and stumbled after her fourth step. With her posture broken, Tigre moved his arms out to catch her on reflex and fell embracing her.

Perhaps due to the chill of the river water, her cold body made him feel warm. He could clearly feel her soft skin and her two voluptuous bulges.

Though his back was to the ground, he barely felt it. With the majority of his consciousness taken away, he could not even think of anything else.

Though the two were mutually frozen, Tigre tried to move his hand somehow. His fingers brushed the glossy skin along her hips; a bewitching sound tickled Tigre's ear.

However, it had removed the tension. She finally sat up, drops of water spilling from her golden hair down her collarbone, collecting in the valley between her breasts.


Against the background of the night sky, her beautiful naked body stole his eyes once again. Though he wanted to offer his clothes so she could conceal herself, it was clearly impossible in this posture. Unable to do anything, he shut his eyes strongly and covered his face with his hand.

“Oh dear, I apologize.”

Her gentle voice fell from above; it was impossible for him not to hear it. When he thought he wanted to retreat, he heard a voice from a distance.

“Sophie? Since it's this dark, it will be hard to find Lunie...”

The voice broke off as footsteps approached. Tigre's instincts perceived an unprecedented danger. While Tigre wanted to escape immediately, the woman was still on top of him.

Though he may have been able to escape if he pushed her away, he could not muster any strength.

“--- Oh?”

Hearing a voice tinged with anger, Tigre felt a sense of hopelessness.

He was not scolded or hit.

Even so, contempt was clearly in her voice and gaze. Tigre felt it may have been better if he was beaten, since things had never been this painful.


In the tent of the high commander were five men and women: Tigre, Ellen, Lim, Teita, and Sophie. Tigre sat in a chair, half encircled by the others. He felt he should have gotten Ojie to join as well.

Still, the modest old Viscount was tired and was resting early. Though Tigre did not want him to overwork himself, he sincerely felt it was a failure on his part to allow him to leave early.

“Your training is not enough.”

Lim looked down at him with eyes clearly expressing contempt. Ellen, though not as much as Lim, also looked at him in anger and shock.

“You will die on the battlefield if you can't react quickly to a surprise. What would you do if a beautiful assassin came? Wouldn't you die then?”

“Tigre-sama...”

Teita had brought snacks for everyone. While pouring wine, Teita looked at Tigre in pity. She called out his name, clearly showing her mental state. It was harsh.

“It is a pleasure to meet you, Lord Tigrevurmud. I am one of the Vanadis, Sophia Obertas, the [{{furigana|Barrier of Evil Retreat|Taima no Futsukou}}]. You may call me Sophie.”


Ignoring the atmosphere, Sophie introduced herself with a kind smile, as if she were a goddess of ancient myth.

Her body was wrapped in a light green dress, her golden hair, now dry, gently waved. The various jewels decorating her body only added to her flower-like beauty.

Of the four women present, only she, the victim so to speak, spoke to him with kind words and gentle expressions. It was quite odd.

Lunie was held in her thin arms. The infant dragon with rusty green scales had lowered its limbs and no longer flapped its wings. It remained obedient like a doll; it had given up on running away.

''--- This person is definitely a Vanadis.''

Though different from Ellen and Ludmira, she was also a beautiful woman. She had an intimidating demeanor and remained calm before Tigre, despite having been seen naked. Tigre bowed his head and smiled in a carefree manner to calm his nerves.

“I am Tigrevurmud Vorn. I apologize for my rudeness before.”

“Oh my, I should be the one to thank you. You tried to catch me when I fell over.”

“It's a load off my mind if you say that.”

“It was my first time being held so closely by a gentleman, I was surprised. You made quite an impressive first impression.”


The Vanadis giggled, her golden hair shaking. Seeing her gaze directed toward his waist rather than his body, he felt he was unjustly suspected.

“So, why did you show up in a place like this?”

While fiddling with her silver hair, Ellen asked in a blunt voice.

“You don't know?”

Tigre asked Ellen in surprise. She was taking a bath in the river. Though he thought the conversation had concluded, it seems he was wrong.

“It seems you returned a half koku early.”

Though Ellen was curious about Sophie's sudden appearance, she was pleased to meet her again.

“I was surprised you took Lunie. Honestly, I didn't think Tigre would be back this early, so I gave you time to take a bath to wash off your sweat while we were waiting for him to get back. I didn't think this would happen.”

Ellen's words permitted no chances for him to speak, though the thorns in her words were less.

“My, I do so love Lunie-chan.”

Noticing her soften, Sophie tilted her head and looked at Ellen.

The last time the two had met was in the King's Capital of Zhcted, Celesta. Ellen had asked her a favor and promised she would let Sophie play with Lunie in return. Sophie loved dragons, especially this baby dragon which looked terrible.


“I got it. You can play with Lunie.”

Though he did not know what happened, Tigre felt a deep sympathy for the young dragon which was being held. It stared at Teita with an unusual interest.

“I came here with official duties from our country. His Majesty has become impatient with your absence, and he has heard an interesting story from Brune. He ordered I go as a messenger.”

“Messenger?”

“It happened a few days after we met, probably about ten days.”

Ellen sighed hearing Sophie's words.

“Impatient, is he... But is this really the sort of duty he should be giving to you?”

“Well, it was unavoidable.”

Sophie's gaze moved to her bishop's staff. The mysterious wand shot out circular rings which combined to form an elaborate golden pillar.

“My Zato should work better than yours, right?”

Tigre recognized the word referred to her staff, her [{{furigana|Dragonic Tool|Viralt}}].


''--- Certainly, it would be different if Ellen's sword or Ludmira's spear were sent as messengers.''

Sophie's staff appeared to have a lower war potential than any other [{{furigana|Dragonic Tool|Viralt}}]. It looked more like a sacred treasure than a weapon.

“Tigre. I'll tell you this now, but if you do anything to Sophie, she may very well hurt you badly. Though it will hurt being cut with a sword, it can be more painful if she crushes your bones.”

Tigre returned to his normal thoughts hearing Ellen's grumpy voice. Due to her gaze toward him, it was difficult for him to object.

“Oh my, Ellen is quite jealous. This is the first time I have seen this side of you.”

Ellen made a completely sulky face hearing Sophie's words which teased her.

“Jealous? Of course not. He was looking at you in a rude manner. Even you can't feel good about that.”

Placing an index finger to her mouth, Sophie continued to speak gently.

“True, he did see everything.”

Lim, who had remained silent until then, drank some wine. Teita wiped some she had spilled in a panic. Ellen's face was hard to comment on at all. Tigre simply bowed his head deeply.


“There is no need to worry so much. I was the one to stumble, after all. It was simply my first time sticking to a man---”

“... Sophia-sama. If possible, let us continue with the more serious business at hand.”

Interrupting Sophie's words, Lim clearly had an expression showing she was enduring a headache. Finally, Tigre and Ellen managed to pull their act together.

“Sophie. It seems you received word from the royal palace. I'm a bit anxious, since I assume you came to tell her she is not to interfere with Brune.”

When Tigre spoke, Sophie lowered her eyes and looked at him.

“... That is correct. Though it will hurt to say, the talks did not conclude well.”

“What do you mean?”

“The King of Brune, his majesty is currently ill and could not attend. Though we spoke to Prime Minister Bodwin, it seems the largest issue is your position.”

“Position?”

Tigre tilted his head. Ellen was the one to react.

“I was employed by Tigre. This matter should be irrelevant to Zhcted Kingdom.”


“Officially that is true, but they said [The Vanadis is after our territory].”

Sophie laughed and Ellen shrugged with a bitter smile. They heard she had requested his territory for his ransom.

“After that, there is a message they wished to convey to Lord Tigrevurmud.”

Without missing a beat, Sophie spoke her words accurately.

[In face of the sin of rebellion, Vorn has been deprived of all rights as a citizen of Brune, his title, and his family name. Alsace will be run directly by the King. Once the turmoil has settled, a magistrate will be sent from the King's Capital.]

“... Rebellion.”

Bringing his hand to his forehead, Tigre spoke that word deeply.

Though he imagined it to be so, his heart felt heavy knowing it was true; still, he was relieved the people under his charge had not been accused.

“Lord Tigrevurmud. A messenger from the royal palace will come one day. Other than myself, have you not heard from Lord Massas?”

“Huh?”

Tigre involuntarily uttered a sound. Lim and Teita looked to Sophie in wonder.


“You know Lord Massas name. No, may I ask how you know of Lord Massas?”

“Oh my, he did not tell you.”

Sophie looked on with a smile.

“I became acquainted with him in the King's Capital of Nice. He told me he would take his troops to Lord Tigrevurmud once he returned to his lands. Though I was thinking of coming to meet Ellen with him, I decided to come early since we were close. He should arrive tomorrow afternoon.”

<big><big><big><big>◎</big></big></big></big>

After dinner and the conference were finished, Tigre sat maintaining his bow.

Sophie had left after telling Batran, who was now sitting at Tigre's side, Massas was safe.

Ignoring the difference of status between nobleman and villager, both Batran and Massas had known each other from before Tigre was even born. Hearing of Massas' safety, the little old man was more happy than Tigre.


Once he finished his maintenance, Tigre noticed a gaze as he stood up.

“Did you need something, young lord?”

“No, there is nothing. I wished to get a bit of fresh air. You won't be going since it's this cold, will you?”

Tigre stopped the old man from standing with a joke.

“You should return at once. It won't do to have the commander catching a cold.”

“... I will keep that in mind.”

Tigre left the tent after waving his hand to Batran. Similarly, he waved to the soldiers on watch and began walking without any particular purpose.

His feet took him to a secluded area, the cold winter air and the light of the stars bathing down on Tigre. Massas was safe.

It was good news, but after walking this far, Tigre could still not feel truly happy.

“A traitor, am I...”

He murmured the words. When it came out in his voice, he felt his body tremble from the very core.

It was deemed he had taken arms against the Kingdom of Brune. No, it was not just himself but all the people who followed him.


''--- I won't lose now...!''

He clenched his teeth and grasped his fist tightly. The Tenardia Army had burned and devastated the town of his birth, and he had attacked the people he cherished. Though he had forced this unreasonable task upon them as their charge, they had followed him and supported each other.

He was doing this to protect them. He could not be negative.

He stared into the darkness, confirming his own determination.

“--- Who is it~?”

Suddenly, something covered his eyes as soon as the warm and calm voice hit his ears. Something soft hit Tigre's back, upon which he pulled away on reflex.

A sweet smell peculiar to a woman's skin stimulated his nose, her light voice touched his ear.

“So, Sophie...?”

Though they had only met today and had barely spoken to one another, with her pleasant and relaxed voice sounding in his ear, he could tell immediately.

After she removed her hands from Tigre's face and separated from him, he turned around to see her smile gently. Sophia Obertas stood before him with golden staff in hand.


“Was it really that easy?”

“You may say that, but there are only four women here, and ignoring all else, your voice is quite beautiful...”

While he answered, Tigre could not help but be wary of the Vanadis in the back of his mind.

He felt no signs. She wore a dress, but there were no sounds of it rustling.

Regardless of battle, she, too, was a Vanadis.

“Oh my, such flattery.”

Sophie gently pat Tigre's head with a smile. Though he often did it to Teita, Tigre felt embarrassed to have it done to himself.

Still, the feeling of her palm and the kindness and warmth in it felt good. Sophie did not stop with just one or two strokes, though. She continued even beyond thirty. As expected of her.

“Why are you here?”

“I wished to talk with you for a bit.”

Sophie obediently answered his question. She had seen Tigre leave his tent and secretly followed after him.

“It will not do if the commander goes out alone.”


Rather than scolding him, she spoke with a tone as if she were admonishing a child. Tigre thought to pull away, but Sophie did not notice. She continued to pat Tigre's hair as he looked at her in awkward embarrassment.

“So... What did you wish to speak with me about?”

The sound of her staff rang through the air as she looked up at the starry sky.

“... What is Ellen to you?”

''What are you saying so suddenly?'' Tigre wanted to say that, but swallowed his words. Sophie looked away from the sky and gazed straight at Tigre seriously, her smile now gone. Her beryl colored eyes displayed a strong will; she exuded an atmosphere that would allow no deception.

''No, ''Tigre released his tension immediately. ''There's no need to think about it. I only need to answer frankly.''

“For me, Ellen is my benefactor... and if I may be so impudent as to say it, my comrade-in-arms.”

“A comrade-in-arms?”

Sophie's bright eyes stared at him. Her staff shook and glittered gold, as if scattering the darkness. Tigre nodded thinking it a natural reaction.

If he had asked a person of Zhcted, they would consider Tigre Ellen's prisoner of war. To call the Vanadis a comrade would be nothing more than insolence.


However, he fought alongside Ellen.

He also used an abnormal power.

“Do you dislike Ellen?”

“Dislike?”

Tigre was bewildered hearing a question he had not expected. Sophie continued to speak.

“You are Ellen's prisoner.”

“Ellen lent me her soldiers.”

After giving a prompt answer, Tigre shrugged his shoulders, mischief bleeding from his eyes.

“Ellen calls me Tigre. I call her Ellen. I'm not particularly in the habit of calling people I dislike by their nicknames.”

When Sophie heard Tigre's words, she smiled brightly. It was a smile lit by the light from her staff; a smile attractive enough to fall in love with.

“It seems you really feel that way. I am relieved.”

“How do you know?”

“I cannot say I know. I simply believe. I saw your face, heard your words. “

Tigre thought she said it like a prayer a Shinto priest or shrine maiden might say. She had clearly seen through him and began to laugh.


“I have seen how Ellen and Lim see you. I have heard how your maid and the soldiers speak of you. Lord Massas Rodant has also told me of you... There was much for me to go on, but, in the end, your facial expressions, your voice, your behavior, those are what allow me to place my faith in you. You truly cherish Ellen.”

Without a sound, her golden hair and green dress fluttered as she walked before Tigre.

“You have become the center of attention even in Zhcted. Why has Ellen associated so much with you, who on earth is this Tigrevurmud Vorn, and so on.”

Her smile disappeared. At a distance of fewer than three steps from Tigre, Sophie stopped walking. It was a suitable distance for her staff.

“The most common rumor is that Ellen fell in love with you at a glance. That, too, is not impossible. The soldiers have never moved for an Earl of a neighboring country and thrust their neck into a civil war. You also fought Mira. How could it not be a large thing? That would be impossible.”

Tigre involuntarily turned his gaze to the black bow in his hands. Tigre did not understand the amazing power held in this bow. Still, there was something else that came from Tigre's mouth.

“Your actions when you were bathing, were you testing me?”


“I only tripped then.”

Tigre sincerely thought the woman who smiled with her head inclined was testing him, but it seems he was wrong.

“Still, that is not quite right. You said earlier Ellen was a comrade-in-arms, but those near to you do not necessarily see that. Half see you two as comrades, half see you as more of a pet.

''Is it better to be a prisoner of war or a pet?'' At the moment, Tigre was more anxious about another issue.

“If we had fallen in love... Would you have stopped Ellen?”

Sophie nodded slowly.

“That is correct. Whether it be as Vanadis or not, I think of Ellen as an important friend. Still, it is a big issue. As an aristocrat, even amongst your friends, do you not separate personal and private affairs?”

The Vanadis Ludmira appeared in Tigre's mind upon hearing her explanation. Their territories bordered one another and she was on bad relations with Ellen.

Even Tigre did not have the greatest of relations with some of the aristocracy in territories neighboring Alsace, but there was no conflict out of mutual interest.

“Ellen must not do anything rash based on her emotions. If necessary, I would have brought her back by force. I would have done the same should I have deemed you to have bound your fate too strongly to Ellen, since that could also be a problem.”


The rings of the staff made a cool sound as it was thrust before Tigre, but it was pulled back immediately. Sophie bowed before Tigre, her hands behind her back.

“But for now, I will place my faith in you. I leave Ellen in your care.”

“I understand.”

Tigre nodded strongly in reassurance.

“Though I said it a while ago, Ellen is my benefactor, my comrade-in-arms. I will absolutely defend her.”

Ellen was far more skillful in horsemanship and swordsmanship, and she had the silver blade Arifal. It may have been presumptuous to say he would protect her.

Even so, they were Tigre's true intentions. He was saved by the kindness of her and the people of her territory. Even if they fought each other as enemies, his days spent with her since they met in Dinant only solidified his determination.

“Thank you.”

Though simple, Sophie's words held much emotion.

After the two returned to the tent, Tigre immediately went to sleep having dispelled his hesitation. Sophie did not sleep, though.

She covered her body in a blanket and calmly sat outside, waiting for time to pass.


<big><big><big><big>◎</big></big></big></big>

The night grew old, many of the soldiers were asleep. Sophie and Ellen slipped out of the women's tent. Away from the soldiers' eyes, the two walked quickly, considering the risk should they have been heard.

“I did not think I would meet you in a place like this.”

Though there was neither moon nor stars in the sky, Sophie's Zato radiated a golden light. The cold night air was inhibited by the silver blade at Ellen's waist.

“Same here. If it were not for my meeting with Lord Massas, I would have returned to Zhcted this evening.”

“Why did you come? Though you came to see me, it doesn't exactly mean you're suspicious.”

Ellen looked doubtful. If he thought of Sophie's position as a messenger of Zhcted, it was far too dangerous to meet Ellen today.

“There are a few reasons. I wished to speak to Lord Tigrevurmud whom you so fondly speak of having love affairs with. I was also worried about you and wondered if you had prepared a means of escape.”


“I don't remember talking about love affairs with Tigre.”

Ellen replied with a sharp answer. Sophie smiled in amusement and giggled. She held Ellen closely and stroked her silver-white hair.

“He really is cute. He resembles Lunie-chan a little.”

“... You never praise people.”

Ellen shook off Sophie's arms and looked at her. Her shoulders were shaking in laughter.

When Sophie looked up, she held a serious expression. The future conversation was the reason she left the camp specifically.

“Elizavetta seems to have deep ties to both Dukes Ganelon and Tenardia.”

Ellen's bright red eyes shined strongly. Elizavetta was yet another Vanadis. Ellen strongly disliked her and evaluated her poorly.

“I cannot tell you much about Valentina, but her territory is the furthest from Brune, so I do not believe she has an intimate association with them. Olga is missing.”

“Missing?”


“She left on a journey with her {{furigana|Dragonic Tool|Viralt}} and left only a letter behind.”

Ellen stood with her mouth half open, unable to say anything for a while.

Valentina and Olga were both Vanadis; however, Ellen had only met them once or twice and was not familiar with their personalities.

“... Has the Dragonic Tool abandoned Olga?”

Sophie simply shrugged her shoulders, as it seemed like it was possible to have happened.

“There is no telling what a Dragonic Tool thinks. There was that time with Sasha as well...”

Sophie shook her head, her golden hair waving, as Ellen frowned.

“Any news on Sasha?”

“There have been no changes... though that is only from when I last left Zhcted.”

Ellen's eyes sank. Sasha – Alexandra – was also a Vanadis, and she was someone who could be called Ellen's partner and best friend. She had an illness that affected her body, even before the two had met. Even with that, Ellen was only to defeat Sasha with the sword only once.

“Sasha would not wish for you to worry about her. It is true she cannot be cured, but I doubt she would want you to stop for that.”

Sophie spoke to Ellen with care. Realizing this, Ellen bowed her head in assent.


“For the time being, you need to keep your thoughts on Elizavetta.”

Elizavetta's territory was far from Leitmeritz which Ellen governed. Though it is unlikely problems would occur like they had with Ludmira, it was best to take precaution.

“Also, I apologize. Regarding the dragons used by Duke Tenardia, I have not yet found anything.”

“There's no need to find out immediately. Do as you see fit.”

“Thank you. I am glad I came here nonetheless. I was able to see that man you have such interest in.”

Sophie slouched a little as she laughed, her bishop's staff swaying, a golden light spilling from the tip.

“Like I told you, with his upbringing, it would be disgraceful---”

“Yet you still spend so much time together?”

Rather than it being a slip of the tongue, it felt like she was stopped while she had taken a deep breath. Ellen began to speak to deny her accusations as she turned her head away, but she could find no words to say; she was hesitant to deny it. So she changed the topic.

“... So what did you think of Tigre when you met him?”


“He is such a lovely child. Though serious, he is honest.”

''I already knew that, ''Ellen muttered in her mind.

''--- It can't be helped. They met only half a day ago... No, perhaps she heard stories of him before she came here.''

Incidentally, it had been about half a koku since Sophie and Tigre had spoken.

“Ah, but...”

Sophie began to speak more.

“Though he has a solid appearance, I cannot find anything particularly noteworthy in him. I do not understand why you choose to help him, so I am a bit curious about him.”

“I haven't heard those words in a while.”

Though the golden haired Vanadis expressed interest in everything because she was curious, she rarely spoke of it. When she purposely said it, it meant she had a considerably strong degree of interest. The last time Ellen heard those words was when she spoke about Lunie.”

“I'll tell you now, though. That guy is mine.”

“It really is love, after all.”

“... We have a contract.”

“If it is simply a contract, then you should not mind lending him to me for a bit. I will make sure to return him; of course, he will be washed properly if I get him a little dirty.”


Thinking about her nature, Ellen looked at Sophie in amazement.

“Don't approach Tigre while you're here. It's too dangerous.”

She spoke those joking words seriously as the two spoke of him as if he were an object to be used.

<big><big><big><big>◎</big></big></big></big>

Tigre was able to invite the next morning in a calm manner, the first time in a long while.

Based on their victory over Marquis Greast and Sophie's words, Massas would appear today.

''--- I'm worried about leading the soldiers. The audience did not go well. If that's the case, what will I do next...''

The King knew of the situation, and, currently, all roads other than war had disappeared. Still, it was good that Massas was safe.

He was a close friend to his late father and a reliable adviser who took care of him in a variety of ways. His role could not be replaced by Teita, Batran, Ellen, or Lim.

He changed his clothes and left the tent to wash his face.


“... What?”

Though the early morning air of the camp was filled with silence, the atmosphere still felt noisy. As he approached Ellen's tent, he saw Batran run from a distance. Having found Tigre, Batran relaxed his tense, wrinkle-filled face. He ran to Tigre, out of breath, then inhaled deeply before speaking.

“Lord, the enemy is stationed to the west, approximately fifteen or sixteen belsta away.”

“The enemy?”

His peaceful morning had been disturbed early.

The soldiers, after having a quick breakfast, hastily vacated the camp. Inside Tigre's tent were four people – Tigre, Ellen, Lim, and Ojie. Ellen thought to call Sophie but hesitated. After all, she was still an outsider.

“They're different. They're the Navarre Army...”

Viscount Ojie confirmed the scout's report and had a grim expression.

“I wish to confirm this. How is the Knighthood of Brune different from their soldiers?”

Seeing Ojie's tense countenance, Ellen tilted her head in doubt.


“The Knights of Brune have received a trial.”

After wetting his throat with wine, Ojie continued his explanation.

“The Knights are well versed in the military arts and culture. Their military arts are focused on the art of the sword, spear, and equestrian skills; their culture is based on the spirit of Knighthood, reading and writing, strategy, and heraldry. Once a year, they undergo a trial to measure these abilities in the King's Capital, and those who pass this trial may become a Knight.”

After taking a deep breath, Ojie's expression became even more deep.

“The Navarre Knights that approach us now are lead by Roland, the [Black Knight] said to be the strongest in Brune.”

Tigre reacted for the first time. He understood Ojie's attitude.

“I have heard of Roland as well.”

A sound of admiration leaked from Ellen's mouth. Her bright red eyes shined with interest.

“Even Tigre has heard of him in his rural town. His strength sounds interesting.”

“Roland took the trial and became a Knight at the age of 13. Though his skill in culture was appropriate for his age, his military skills far surpassed expectations. Though there were many others who aspired to Knighthood, all of whom had considerable influence, Roland confronted them all and took victory.”


A 13 year old boy who defeated many experienced knights. This elicited a bitter reaction from both Ellen and Lim.

“That seems a bit too much to believe...”

“It is a fact.”

Ojie's tone made it impossible not to believe.

“After reaching the peak, Roland had yet to lose. He emerged victorious from the kingdom sponsored games for three consecutive years, and he always defeated the enemy when he came out on the battlefield. His Majesty was quite pleased with him and appointed him leader of the Navarre Knights. The same year, he gave him the Kingdom's sacred blade, Durandal.”

At this point, Ojie frowned, his body was visibly shaking.

“The Knights of Navarre have their fortress established along the most important place on the Western Border where Brune meets Sachstein and Asvarre.”

“The border disputes have never ended there.”

Ojie nodded gravely to Lim's doubtfully asked question.

“He is no stranger to skirmishes with forces exceeding ten thousand in number, so all his soldiers are accustomed to war. Roland has led the Knights of Navarre through these battles for more than a year.”


“... I see.”

At last, Ellen looked serious. In a place where one devotes his time to fight every day, the leader could not be a halfway capable individual.

“But why are they here?”

Tigre raised a question.

“The Knights of the Kingdom swear allegiance to His Majesty. They swear upon their honor before the gods and fundamentally accept commands only from the King...”

“It is difficult to believe His Majesty gave this order. Most likely either Dukes Tenardia or Ganelon managed to mobilize him in some way.”

“It does not matter. Make preparations to fight against those that come to us. We cannot solve this only with vigilance.”

Ellen spoke. Ojie bowed deeply in gratitude.

A messenger was sent out for negotiation but came back dejected after only a half koku.

“Their answer was [We will not exchange words with the enemy. We will only accept surrender], and [If you wish to surrender, throw away all your arms].”


“So we must surrender if we wish to talk.”

“That's a new one.”

Ellen was impressed with the enemy general's blunt attitude. Her bright red pupils were filled with the urge to fight. A smile floated to her mouth, and the air around them stirred, as if the long sword Arifal was reacting to her will.

On the other side, Tigre, Ojie, and Lim wore expressions as if they had headaches. They looked at each other. It was not the time for this kind of talk.

“Send a messenger from me.”

Tigre chose two people from Alsace from amongst his soldiers and had them go to the Knights. If they could not enter a negotiation still, they would at least be able to form a consensus. To this end, they were buying time for Massas to arrive.

However, the results did not change. They were pushed away without receiving a single word.

“They didn't even listen to us.”

They solemnly reported to Tigre. The four briefly conferred and finished their meeting.

Ellen and Lim left the tent to gather the Zhcted Army. At that point, Ojie's son, Gerard, entered.


“Are you well, Earl Vorn, Father?”

After the viscount nodded, several men appeared with Gerard; they were Brune aristocrats who were cooperating with Viscount Ojie.

“Earl Vorn, will you please explain the situation.”

What seemed the most senior of the men advanced. He appeared to be in his mid forties, his large body was wrapped in hempen clothes and a fur mantle. He, too, was a viscount, just like Ojie.

“Our enemies were Dukes Tenardia and Ganelon. Why is it that the Knights of the Sword has come to us?”

Tigre was hesitant to say he was branded a rebel; however, before Tigre opened his mouth, Viscount Ojie laughed and answered.

“It seems they saw the Zhcted Army and believe we are leading a rebellion. It seems they will not listen to us lest we surrender.”

The men were shaken.

“Then it is necessary that we throw aside our arms to speak. The Knights of Navarre are led by Roland. We have no chance of victory.”

“They are Knights. They are different from Duke Tenardia; surely they would understand should you say you are protecting yourself. If we surrender our weapons, they will listen to us. Surely they will understand our position should we explain Sir Tenardia's cruelty.”


One person spoke, probably following the momentum of the conversation.

“How do you propose we do this? Do you believe the Zhcted Army will throw aside their weapons?”

Tigre asked them with an indifferent voice as he spoke.

“No matter who we may cooperate with, it will be the blood of Brune that flows.”

Tigre read their minds.

''--- First the Zhcted Army... Now they wish to rely on the Knights of Navarre.''

He did not know what they knew. Though the Zhcted Army was helping Tigre and Ojie to defend their territories, it was not so for them. They were defending themselves from Duke Tenardia and were looking for people they could trust to defend them.

“If you wish, please leave the battlefield. You may cross the river to the north or through the forest to the south. I do not care. You may discard your weapons there and speak the Navarre Knights. However...”

Tigre continued with a stronger tone.

“I do not believe the Navarre Knights will protect you from Duke Tenardia. If I were to surrender, then the Zhcted Army would simply return to their lands and the Navarre Knighthood would return to the west to defend the borders of Brune.”


“No, to say that...”

Tigre took a step toward the man who wished to say something.

“The cruelty of Dukes Tenardia and Ganelon did not start yesterday. The Knights appeared today. Has anyone in Brune denounced them?”

“That's... But the Knights only move by His Majesty's command...”

“Honestly, this is exactly why we are placing our faith in the Zhcted Army.”

Hearing the man speak, Ojie stepped in to calm the situation down. Tigre was aware he was losing his patience and stepped back to allow Ojie to take his place.

“Your fear of fighting the Knights of Navarre is justified; however, I can only think this is a result of Duke Tenardia's plans. By using them, he can manipulate how the Zhcted Army moves. Really, Tenardia is a troublesome opponent.”

Tigre and Ojie were not speaking in a particularly nasty manner, they were simply stating facts. The men turned pale, unable to counter them.

In half a koku, the Silver Meteor finished lining up in the center of the Orange Plains.

For the time being, there were no signs of backing down.

<noinclude>
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"
|-
| Back to [[Madan_no_Ou_to_Vanadis:Volume_03_Chapter_2_Preview|Chapter 2 Preview]]
| Return to [[Madan_no_Ou_to_Vanadis|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Madan_no_Ou_to_Vanadis:Volume_03_Chapter_4_Preview|Chapter 4 Preview]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Madan no Ou to Vanadis:Volume 03 Chapter 1 - MTL

2012-10-29T04:18:11Z

155.69.203.2: /* Black Knight */

<noinclude>{{Template:PREVIEW}}</noinclude>
=== Black Knight ===
To the west of Brune Kingdom were the kingdoms of Sachstein and Asvarre.

The primary relation between the neighboring countries was one of discord. There were frequent skirmishes, especially with Sachstein.

Though the lands to the west held barren wilderness and steep mountains, there is no King who would not wish to expand his territory. While they used childish reasons to fight, the results would be obvious with victory.

And so, the fighting along the western border did not end. Five, six years ago, Sachstein was defeated.

The one to lead the defense of the western border was Roland, also known the [Black Knight].

Three thousand soldiers roamed the barren wilderness, devoid even of weeds. Present on a flag hoisted above was the symbol of Furesburg. It was said the souls of the dead would be sent to heaven in peace. It was the symbol of the Kingdom of Sachstein.


They were the Sachstein Army. They had passed the border and were currently invading Brune.

One thousand cavalry stood at the front followed by two thousand infantry.

Behind them rang the shrill sound of oxen and horse-driven caravans and catapults. Many towers and boulders were visible.

As they left the wilderness, the Sachstein entered a mountain path surrounded by cliffs.

A single horseman appeared before them.

His helmet, boots, and waving mantle were solid black. In his hand was a large, deep black sword. A dignity exuded from his very presence.

“Sachstein, it seems you have not learned the strength of this country or land from your prior experiences. I will do nothing should you choose to flee!”

The sonorous voice of the Black Knight echoed through the desolate mountain path. Rather than anger, soldiers from the Sachstein Army held fear in their voice.

“That's Roland.”

With a force of three thousand, it was foolish to stand before them as a lone soldier.

However, the Sachstein Army knew. This knight easily had the power to match one thousand.


Many knights and generals, fighting beneath the Sachstein name, have lost their lives in the past five years. The common soldiers did not understand that.

The Sachstein Army did not respond to Roland. A single horseman, covered in heavy armor, advanced carrying a spear with both hands.

The man brandished the spear and made his horse run forward silently. Roland unsheathed his sword as he kicked the belly of his horse. Roland held the sword aloft, a large blade which would be difficult to wield with both hands by a common man, with his right hand alone.

The distance between the two shrunk quickly, a sound similar to thunder shook the atmosphere.

The Sachstein cavalryman in blue armor facing Roland slumped over.

His red corpse fell to the ground, his blood soaking the dry earth. A groan sounded from the Sachstein Army.

Roland did not stop his horse. He charged at the enemy brandishing his large sword, wet with blood. Crushed by fear, a cry was heard from the troops of Sachstein. The man named after the God of War pounced on the enemy, a single horseman.

“May the God of War, Tyulare, grant us protection!”


Two amongst the Sachstein cavalrymen rapidly approached Roland, thrusting toward him from the left and right. The next moment, their spears passed through empty space, their necks hovering in midair above a trail of fresh blood.

Every time Roland brandished his sword, the blood and a scream of a Sachstein soldier rushed forth. Countless amounts of blood and corpses fell to the earth.

Though infantrymen rained arrows upon him, Roland used his large sword to cut two, while three bounced off his jet-black armor.

Roland showed no fatigue, no matter how often he cut, nor did his sword become dull. Even when surrounded by four, five people, not a single scratch marred his army; rather, only the dead bodies of Sachstein littered the field.

Suddenly, a battle cry was heard atop the cliff. A knight dressed in armor carried a flag depicting a horse head, the symbol of Brune, fluttered in the wind. It was a Navarre Knight who defends the western border.

The Sachstein Army, while focused on Roland, failed to notice the soldiers surrounding them. Even if they killed Roland, they would be overrun.

The Knights of Navarre ran down the steep slope, all at once. With Roland at the lead, the Sachstein Army collapsed. The cavalry turned their horses around, the infantrymen began to flee.


Roland joined the Knights of Navarre.

“Did we come too early?”

Leading the knights was a slim man. He spoke to Roland with a smile. He was the right hand of Roland, Olivier, who served as Vice-Commander. As Roland tried to respond, the Sachstein forces began to flee.

The air swelled. Boulders, likely pulled along by five or six men, flew near Roland, destroying the earth beside him.

“--- A catapult."

He was surprised. Roland soothed his horse as he muttered fearlessly. It was amazing that his face betrayed no sign of impatience.

“What's with that. That thing is for a castle siege.”

Another boulder was launched. It hit the wall and landed heavily. The knights avoided the rock in a panic.

Roland held his large sword high and ran forward on his horse.


“Follow my sword!”

The wind was singing. The stones came flying. Roland did not try to avoid them as he moved straight forward with his horse. The boulders could not keep with the Black Knight's terrific speed.

--- One Slash.

Roland's large sword cut a boulder in two. As it landed, it shattered into countless pieces. Cries of astonishment could be heard from the Sachstein soldiers. Cries of joy could be heard from the Navarre Cavalry.

With their fighting spirit gone, Sachstein turned and ran. Roland chased after them, tearing any enemy he caught with his sword.

The soldiers who escaped from Roland could not fend off the blades of the Knights of Navarre who followed close behind him. Struggling amongst a sea of corpses, the Sachstein soldiers discarded their weaponry and tried to run away.

Roland stopped the chase when the enemy stepped outside the borders.

He ordered a withdrawal and held his sword to the sky. Decorated with a golden pattern, a blade the color of steel, it boasted a sharpness and strength impossible for steel.

Durandal is its name.


It was called the [Sword of Invincibility] in Brune. Roland was granted the sword from the King when entrusted with defense of the borders.

He was not born of a noble family, and there were objections when he was given the blade at the age of 20, the King merely spoke calmly to them.

“Bring forth a knight greater than Roland.”

No one could return a word. They could only remain silent and withdraw.

In fact, once Roland became a knight at the age of 13, he had never been defeated, whether it was the sword or the spear, or his skillful manipulation of a horse. He had spearheaded all his battles.

He wiped the blood off Durandal and leaned it against his shoulder. Roland quietly clicked his tongue.

Why has Sachstein moved at this time?

''--- They must have heard our army fell into disorder. They definitely sent soldiers to explore.''

He became angry upon remembering. It was not Sachstein's attack, but the attack against his land.

''--- While I protect the borders from the predators outside Brune, what are those idiots doing back at the Royal Palace...!''


While Roland waited to lead the knights, excited over their victory, to return to their castle, a messenger from the capital, Nice, arrived.

He received the letter presented to him. Roland opened it and read it, his face turning grim.

“--- I understand the situation.”

He folded the letter and put it in his pocket. Roland spoke to the messenger quietly.

“I will head to the capital immediately. Please report to Duke Tenardia.

The messenger left in a hurry. Roland hid his expression from Olivier, who stood to the side.

“It was a notification to subjugate some thieves.”

“Thieves?”

Earl Vorn, have you heard of him? He is a man who led a revolt and brought the Army of Zhcted into our country.

Though Olivier's expression showed his astonishment, he recovered quickly and spoke calmly.

“If we're taking care of this, what about the West?”

Without Roland and Navarre present, Sachstein's suspicions would become certainty. They would quickly attack. That much was easily understandable.


“Duke Tenardia will negotiate for a temporary armistice.”

“Indeed, if it's that man, he could...”

Olivier sounded dissatisfied.

“So, all we need to do is kill Earl Vorn.”

Roland spoke harshly.

Duke Tenardia was preparing to fight against Duke Ganelon. They could not move their soldiers without causing a problem.

“So how many are we bringing?”

Olivier asked his true intentions, having heard his response to the messenger. Olivier could not immediately judge the severity.

“The whole army.”

Roland responded curtly. Olivier gasped.

“The whole Army of Navarre?”

Olivier repeated his question.

“We will empty our fort?”

“Vorn seems to lead a five thousand strong army composed of Zhcted troops. It is said the undefeated Vanadis is a match for one thousand men.


The names of the seven Vanadis was known even to Olivier and Roland. They are touted as bearing an uncommon bravery and are known for not knowing defeat on the battlefield.

“It seems he is settling this rumor straight after all... We should get within one koku's march and secure victory as quickly as possible. Duke Tenardia will be negotiating desperately, after all.”

Though the knights of Navarre totaled five thousand in numbers, they were by no means average. They were considered amongst the strongest knights in Brune.

Every day, they were trained in skirmishes at the Western Border.

Roland, bestowed the holy sword Durandal by the kingdom, commanded those knights at the young age of 27.

The next day, Roland drew the knights to the courtyard.

First of all, Tigrevurmud Vorn invited the Zhcted Army within the country, and there were several nobles who aligned themselves with him.

“We shall first set off for the Royal Capital; however, our final destination is Territoire.”

Roland returned the [Sword of Invincibility] to its sheath and spoke with a deep voice.

“--- We will quickly attack the enemy and fall back.”



<big><big><big><big>◎</big></big></big></big>

''I had a dream.''

''In the dream, I am looking at Eleanora near a river from behind.''

''Before my eyes, a beautiful girl stood. She pointed her hand to the river and spoke with a smile.''

“Nice to meet you, Vanadis of the Silver Blade. I am Alexandra Alshavin. It's nice to meet you.”

When Ellen was chosen as a Vanadis, her predecessor was already gone from the world.

They met for the first time, perhaps to teach what was necessary. Sasha – Alexandra, had deep black hair hanging to her shoulders. She spoke with a masculine tone, that was the impression she gave.

Though the two had different personalities, they hit it off, strangely enough. They referred to each other as Sasha and Ellen on the same day.

When crisis approaches, when the King commands, you will be bound. You will run to his aid. It is not a promise, it is an oath.

In the dream, the two sat in a small room somewhere.

Sasha, sitting before him, said to be cautious and not to abuse the Dragonic Skill.

“It is a force beyond human intellect. If you rely too much on it, you will become mentally weak. Your mind and skill will dull.”


Ah, I vaguely remember this memory. It happened two years ago, when I became a Vanadis. This dream is just like what happened.

“However... Can I do it with just a strong will?”

“So long as you are confident. However, Ellen, it is not just that. You can control your will on your own. Remember, it will not respond to a weak-willed fool.”

Ellen tried to object from a different angle, since she did not simply wish to accept what was told to her.

“But if that's the case, I think it would be better to live alone so the soldiers don't die.”

Ellen's eyes gazed directly into Sasha's.

“The soldiers will not follow just you, but the Dragonic Tool.”

''--- Jeez, I can't win against Sasha.''

Though I understood later, it was not an idea belonging to Sasha alone. Both Sophia and Ludmira had a similar feeling.

“Naturally, when a crisis approaches, I will use my body. There will be times when I can't help but use it when confronting an enemy, but there are also times when the right power is needed.”


Ludmira declared as usual. Sophia naturally spoke quietly.

“This is the skill of a dragon. The Vanadis can only exercise such techniques after obtaining a Dragonic Tool. It is not my own. I will only use it when I have the proper opportunity. When thinking of it that way, it is natural for me.”

Based on what she was told, the Dragonic Tool was used in a manner opposite what she thought. Ellen continued to ask herself and finally came to a conclusion.

Arifal is not a free sword; it has a will. If it deemed Ellen unworthy, it would immediately part from her hand. Actually, she did not understand how it judged who was and was not qualified.

Currently, Ellen found her own answer.

“I should fight those who challenge me on the battlefield with ingenuity and skill.”

[{{furigana|Cleave the Wind|Ley Admos}}] was a highly destructive power. It could cleave through the scales of a dragon, protect the Vanadis like iron, and deflect assassin attacks from the shadows. She had experience with it.

Still, it was not necessarily the right answer. Only two years have passed since she became a Vanadis. She worried about failing Arifal's expectations and continued to ask herself such questions.



<big><big><big><big>◎</big></big></big></big>

The early morning sky extended slightly above the clouds, a cold wind blew the dry grass.

Six thousand soldiers gathered on the west side of Territoire. It consisted of one thousand men from Brune and five thousand from Zhcted. A base was established, and in the center waved flags bearing a red horse and a black dragon.

A large force consisting of troops from two countries were particularly conspicuous

It was divided into a place for the captain and another for the sub-captain.

One barrack was set up for men, one for women.

In the women's barracks, three girls were waking up.

Brune had a relatively mild climate, but it was still quite chilly in the winter morning. On the ground, cold air and moisture was evident. The men wrapped themselves in cloaks of thick fur and blankets. Straw was dried out during the day for use and then burnt as fuel at night.

Amongst the three girls, one was a maid who served Tigrevurmud Vorn, the Supreme Commander of the troops. Beneath her nut-brown, twin-tail hair was a childish face.


As noiselessly as possible, she passed her arms through the sleeves of the black and white maid outfit. Teita left the tent quietly. In the silence, she could occasionally hear the soldiers stifling a yawn.

Wearing a dress and walking in the cold, her breathe was wight. She moved about, loosening her body.

''--- Tigre-sama must still be asleep.''

He was the lord whom Teita served and intimately called to. While imagining his sleeping face, she heard a voice from behind.

“What's this, you're up already.”

Almost jumping up, Teita looked back.

Behind her was a girl with hair of silver-white extending to her waist. At her waist was a sheathed longsword. She had some slightly disordered bed hair.

“Good... morning.”

She bowed and spoke carefully, Teita's expression clearly showing her disappointment.


Her name is Eleanora Viltaria, known as [{{furigana|Wind Princess of the Silver Flash|Meltis}}]. She was one of the seven Vanadis of Zhcted Kingdom. She and her soldiers were present in the encampment.

Though, as a maid, she was not someone Teita could simply converse with, she was candidly called out to. Tigre called her by her nickname, Ellen. As Ellen nodded her head in understanding, she noticed the pail Teita held.

“Are you going to draw water now?”

Teita felt she was seen through, so she could not help but answer in a reluctant voice.

“I'll go with you.”

“... Thank you.”

Amongst the six thousand strong army, there were only three women. Ellen and Teita and Ellen's adjutant, Limlisha, who was currently still asleep.

Apart from Ellen and Lim, who held rank, Teita was not called for often. She tried not to act alone as much as possible.

Batran usually accompanied Tigre, but he was likely still asleep this early in the morning.

''--- Though if asked, Batran-san will get up immediately.''

However, he took care of Teita since she was small, She did not want to overdo things.


Thinking about it, she appreciated Ellen's company. Even in an army of six thousand, it was still dangerous to walk alone.

Teita and Ellen walked separate from the soldiers on lookout and left the formation. To the north, a narrow river flowed. They passed soldiers who were returning from drawing water. Teita walked silently, there was no conversation.

''--- If this were Tigre-sama.''

Teita thought it easy to walk along with Tigre and imagined it.

Tigre's face, still showing signs of not sleeping enough, would walk next to Teita with a yawn. As she washed her smiling face, careful not to fall into the river, Tigre would turn and lightly pat Teita's nut-brown hair.

Just remembering the many exchanges they had in the past made Teita happy.

Suddenly, the wind blew. The beginning of winter coldly tickled Teita's neck. She sneezed involuntarily.

“Are you cold?”


Ellen voiced her question. Teita then felt a soft feeling wrap around her shoulders as Ellen took off her mantle and placed it on her.

“Th, thank you.”

Slow in expressing her thanks, Teita looked at Ellen curiously.

“What?”

“You too, aren't you cold?”

She was wearing a long sleeved-shirt and covered to her shoulders and legs. In comparison, Ellen wore a short skirt and had bare legs and shoulders. Still, though not thick, her clothes were made of seven fine-quality fabrics.

“I'm fine. The winters in Zhcted are much colder than this.”

Teita did not know the weather in the neighboring country, so she could only nod absent-mindedly.

“By the way, Teita, I had a question I wanted to ask you.”

“... What could it be?”

Teita's voice was stiff. She prepared herself to respond, no matter what question might come.

“You, do you like Tigre?”

The question was far too frank, so it easily pushed past the guard erected in Teita's heart. Teita's now crimson face looked back at Ellen as she shook her hands.

“Wha, what are you suddenly saying...!”


“There's no need to panic. It's not unusual for the maid to have feelings for her master.

With her hands at her waist, Ellen looked at Teita happily. Teita, in a fluster, tried to protest.

“I am Tigre-sama's maid. Certainly, I have yearned for him for many years, but I do not find our relationship lacking...”

“Is that so. So is there someone he likes?”

Ellen moved on to the next question without hesitation. Without going further into Teita's thoughts, she shook her another way.

“I do not believe so. I have never seen nor heard of a woman frequently meeting with Tigre-sama.”

“He may be a 16 year old like me, but he's a noble with a territory, right? There haven't been any stories?”

Ellen showed some doubt in her face. Even if they were only 16, it was not abnormal to think of marriage. Furthermore, Tigre was not some youth on the streets. He had an obligation to continue the blood to prevent the eradication of the Vorn family line.

“Tigre-sama is a serious person.”

Teita spoke proudly, as if speaking for herself, though it did not last long.


“Though you say he's serious, he could still be interested in women. He seemed interested when he saw me naked.”

“... Naked?”

“I was bathing at a well.”

Ellen responded casually. Teita could not articulate naturally for a while. When she was young, she did not mind being seen naked, but of course, that changed when she became aware of her femininity.

“Don't put on a face like that. He didn't come to see me, it was more of an accident.”

Was Teita's reaction really that odd? Ellen looked at her, nearly laughing. The chestnut-haired maid looked into the eyes of the Vanadis with reproach. Though mortifying, she did not have the reckless courage to show her bare skin to Tigre.

… Besides...

Looking at Ellen's body, she sighed inwardly. Though Teita's body was not unattractive, she could not match Ellen's bust size or her thin hips.

They continued walking when a question suddenly appeared in Teita's head.


“--- Why are you worried about this?”

Ellen walked next to her, looking at her curiously. Teita made her question more direct.

“You as well, do you like Tigre-sama?”

Ellen's straight face turned rigid. Her wide eyes gazed at Teita. The wind fluttered through her silver hair, bringing her back to her senses.

“That's right. Well, I don't hate him, I guess...”

Ellen's fingers fiddled with her hair. Teita gently pushed forward.

“... So you like him?”

Ellen frowned slightly and crossed her arms.

“Liking him and not disliking him, it's not really that simple.”

“Certainly, but I believe I can apply that to you.”

Teita's words would not permit running away, forcing a small moan to leak from Ellen. Withdrawing her gaze and placing her hand on her longsword, she gently patted it as if touching the head of a small animal. As if in response, the wind of the silver blade lightly blew.

“Assuming I like Tigre as you say, what will you do?”

“That... I do not know, but---”


While overlooking the meadows, which were mostly a dull yellow, Teita continued to speak. It was not something she had thought much about.

“I am happy enough, so long as I can see Tigre-sama smiling happily, and, right now, you are necessary for that.”

She hardened her determination and stopped walking. Teita looked back at Ellen. With her face flush, she looked strongly with her hazel eyes.

“That is why, I will remain by Tigre-sama from now on, and I will watch you. I will not forgive you should you do anything terrible to him!”

Teita understood. All Tigre needed were peaceful days.

The soldiers to fight Duke Tenardia, an excellent leader, food and water to maintain them.

Ellen could prepare them all, it was something Teita could not do.

Ellen was more necessary for Tigre in private as well.

It is precisely because she understood that she said nothing more.

Though Ellen looked at Teita in surprise, hearing the desire of the maid, one year younger, she burst out in laughter.

“Wha, what's so funny?”

Teita drew closer, strongly clutching the pail. Ellen smiled bitterly and shook her hands.


“No, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make fun of your determination.”

Though she was envious of Teita's single-minded and brave nature, she could not say it aloud.

“I'm one of the seven Vanadis. Even if he liked me, we would just be too unbalanced.”

“Unbalanced...”

Though relieved, Teita had an expression showing her mixed feelings. Though it was her selfish desire, there was also an imbalance between them.

Though she was not necessarily seen through, Ellen looked at Teita with happy, bright red eyes.

“I wouldn't mind, but would you try to become his mistress? He's mine. There won't be anything interfering with us getting together.”

“No thank you!”

While Teita spoke with a large voice and a crimson face before, she now turned her back to Ellen indignantly. She was being teased, but was surprised to hear of herself as a mistress.

''--- Tigre-sama, what should I do.''


She had just told Ellen she would remain by Tigre's side.

However, seeing her and Lim, she was acutely aware how little she could help.

Of course, it was a misunderstanding. Teita's role was not in the realm of warfare. She took care of personal needs, prepared delicious meals, and prepared the warm beds for the tired individuals in the evening.

She was modest, to say the least. She did not understand the results of her actions. She never thought to ask Tigre.

“May I ask you one more question?”

“Ah, yes?”

With a question suddenly thrown at her, Teita panicked.

She felt a force weigh down on her.

Her heart beat rapidly, even her breathing stopped as Ellen watched her. Because she was told to give up so suddenly, this silver-white princess was not being careless. Ellen, her red eyes shining curiously, asked Teita happily.

“What part of Tigre do you like?”

“Ah, Everything!”

“Even his habit of oversleeping?”


Teita found herself at a loss for words. To disentangle the heart of the maid, younger by one year, Ellen spoke with a smile.

“I don't doubt your feelings, but as someone who has been by his side for years, I'm curious. What are his virtues and what are his faults?”

And was it different from what Ellen found in Tigre?

“His gentle nature...”

“What else?”

When asked, Teita stopped her feet and looked up at the clouds in the sky.

“... I will tell you what Batran-san once said.”

Little by little, Teita formed her words.

“Tigre-sama has ruled the widely spread land of Alsace alone.”

Ellen wore a dubious face when she heard it called wide, but was immediately convinced.

Celesta, the city in the center of Alsace, was a place the maid rarely stepped foot out of. To her, Alsace must have been extraordinarily wide.

“When he became lord, Tigre was a simple child, no different from any other. There were many who looked poorly upon him, though they were never angry. Still, I think it amazing.”


After a single breath, Ellen nodded silently, encouraging her to continue.

“He lost his father, attended the funeral, and with no time to rest, became the lord. He had many people to help and worked many days without rest... However, Tigre-sama himself never changed. Thanks to that, I could continue to feel at ease with him.”

Tigre became Earl and succeeded his territory at the age of 14. He did not take time to mourn for his father and immediately took up his work. Still, there must have been pain, suffering, conflict.

Still, Tigre's attitude did not change, touching the lives of Teita, Batran, and many others.

“When I saw that, I wanted to help Tigre-sama, even just a little.”

“... I see.”

Ellen nodded in satisfaction hearing Teita's words. Her silvery-white hair fluttered in the wind.

''… Certainly, he's a very flexible person.''

''He does not let a situation pass, but he's not too self-assertive.''

''--- It's hard, as a woman, to tell if he's suitable or unsuitable.''


Teita's story, Lim's reaction, as well as her own. She could only smile bitterly.

“Ah, um...”

Teita called out in a rather conservative voice, restoring Ellen's presence of mind. She gazed at the maid's hazel-colored eyes. There was a wariness within them. Thinking about it, she had given an expression that was not quite expected. Cheerfully, Ellen tapped Teita's shoulder.

“I'll have to give you my thanks. I'm liking the boy more and more.”

Teita's face was shocked. Ellen laughed once again.

“I'm feeling good. When I return to Zhcted, I can leave him in your care.”

When Limlisha awoke, Ellen was heading out. Though she tried to accompany her, naturally, she was refused.

Reluctantly, she wrapped herself in a blanket and waited until the scheduled wake-up call.

“What if an assassin aimed for your life?”

Though she wanted to say that so she could accompany her, it was Lim's fault that a group of assassins could attack her the other day.


Despite the chill of the early morning, she quickly washed her face with water and cleaned her golden hair, passing her left hair through it. She changed clothes and wore a thick, blue, overcoat as a measure against the cold.

She told herself it would be fine. Ellen was not guarded by only herself. There were many soldiers watching over the area, and she had the Dragonic Tool granted to the Vanadis. Even if a poisoned arrow flew from great distances, Ellen could defend against it.

She clutched her favorite stuffed bear, which could fit in her hands, to calm her mind. Lim left the barracks, her sword at her waist. When asking about the whereabouts of the soldiers beside Ellen, she was told they had still not returned.

''--- What should I do.''

She asked herself. She seldom hesitated.

At present, there are others who could assist Ellen. It was not like everyone was asleep at this time, except for perhaps a young man who slept until noon. He had not once gotten rid of that habit, so Lim had to scold him more than once.

''--- I suppose Eleanora-sama will be fine.''

Beneath the wind were two banners fluttering. She called for the soldiers on guard.


“Is Lord Tigrevurmud awake yet?”

As expected, the answer was negative. She was told someone was sent.

In the large tent, the young, red-haired man was wrapped in a blanket, breathing deeply and quietly. His black bow was propped beside it. Though there should have been an elder man serving beside him and a young maid, neither could be seen. Perhaps they already left.

“He really has a good sleeping posture...”

Speaking in amazement, her voice was positive. Lim compromised and got to her knees before Tigre, lightly shaking his shoulder.

“Lord Tigrevurmud, it is already morning. Please wake up.”

There was no reaction. Either he was deep asleep or he was catching up on lost rest.

“The soldiers have already begun preparations for breakfast. As the general of an army, how can you oversleep?”

She scolded Tigre with cliched words. She shook him stronger, but received no reaction.

''--- The last time, a sword was thrust into his mouth.''

Tigre, at the time, was a captive, and Lim was strongly hostile. She could not do it now.


For the two... Their relationship changed a great deal in a short amount of time.

Comparing the past and present, she indulged in a strange, deep emotion.

Tigre, commander of the forces, was taught by her. Lim noticed her position and was slightly surprised.

“Really, you're so mysterious.”

With a smile, she brought her hand from Tigre's shoulder to his red hair and gently stroked it. Tigre did not wake up, but distorted his face as if it were an itched. He brought his hand to his head.

Or so it should have gone.

Their hands overlapped.

Lim deeply involuntarily inhaled and gazed at their hands. Warmth came through her hand, her face dyed red. Many seconds passed like that.

“Wake up, Tigre. I came to do this personally.”

At the entrance, Teita and Ellen rudely walked in. Lim shrank out of surprise and looked back at her Lord with argent hair.

“If it isn't Lim. Why are you here?”


Though it would end if she said she came to wake Tigre, she was shy from what just happened and could not speak. Lim looked up in confusion as Ellen walked toward her with narrowed eyes.

“You, even if he's difficult to wake up, to try and pull his hair...”

“It's different ---”

She tried her intense emotions and spoke with a large voice, pulling a few hairs out of his head as she shook her hands.

“Tigre-sama, are you okay?”

Confused by the situation, Teita ran up to Tigre in a hurry. After confirming his well being, Teita looked at Lim accusingly.

Unable to remain, Lim bowed deeply and apologized for her impoliteness.

“It's fine, though try to limit it so I don't go bald.”

Tigre's response mixed with a Yawn. Lim felt safe at last.

<big><big><big><big>◎</big></big></big></big>


[[Image:Vanadis_V03_-_039.jpg|175px|thumb]]


In the tent, there sat one young man and three girls surrounding a map.

Ellen and Lim, Teita and Tigre, making four people. After Tigre had breakfast, they had a meeting, though Teita was only present to remove the meals.

“Four days have passed since we reached these plains, have we found anything?”

The meeting began as usual. First, they would hear Lim's opinion, her turmoil from the morning disturbance now gone. She looked at Tigre and spoke in a voice and unfriendly expression which did not express her emotions. She was young, only 19 years old, yet she was well versed in political affairs and the martial arts.

“There were many troublesome issues, but nothing serious.”

Tigre responded in a calm manner. He was 16 years old and had rather short, dull hair and dark eyes. His features were sober, his mild smile suited him well. He wore ordinary hempen clothes with leather shoes. He was no different from any villager in the area.

This was how he always dressed, though he was commander of six thousand troops.

“The number of fights has increased and our food and fuel are getting tight. So that's how it is.'

“Don't forget, our debt is increasing.

Ellen added those words with a straight face while sipping some soup.

“What we eat isn't free, after all.”


The stewed soup was made with two kinds of salted fish or mussels and three herbs. Though the salted fish was strong enough to make it difficult to eat, the taste became moderate once boiled.

The breakfast also included a hard bread and cheese as well as a bit of win. The soup was the only thing different from the soldiers' rations.

The food was bought from the towns and cities in the vicinity. Also, not a single person from the Zhcted Army showed his face. The Brune soldiers were the ones in charge and took charge of the Zhcted gold.

“We have entered Territoire, a territory under Lord Ojie's command. If we asked, we could requisition food and fuel, but I would rather not cause any trouble for the locals if possible.

That was the general consensus.

Very few Brune nobles were willing to aid Tigre. Not only did his own soldiers, but soldiers belonging to those he was intimate with aided him. In total, Lord Ojie was able to procure one thousand soldiers willing to help Tigre.

And now they were all gathered.

“By the way, Lim.”

After finishing her soup, Ellen looked to her expressionless subordinate.

“Do we have a formal name for the army?”

Lim slightly frowned. Though it was difficult to notice this minor change, Ellen and Tigre noticed.


“I don't think that is a particularly important issue, but...”

“No, I just thought they could be called [{{furigana|Silver Meteor|Unstoppable Silver Flow}}].”

Ellen smiled happily as she continued egging them on. Lim and Tigre noticed her intent to tease them.

''--- The Silver Meteor, is it...''

It seemed to be a fairly exaggerated name for the army Tigre led. Lim was reluctant to agree.

Before the soldiers under Ojie's care joined, she was questioned on what to call the army.

“The core of the army are Lord Tigrevurmud and Eleanora-sama. I think it fine to call it [The Alsace Leitmeritz Allied Forces].”

Lim proposed that. Tigre also considered it in his own way.

“We can't forget the aristocrats who helped us, so it might be best to call it [The Leitmeritz and Feudal Lords of Brune United Army].”

“What's this, with that kind of name, there won't be any kind of morale. What do you think the soldiers would say to these names?”

With an exhausted face, Ellen rejected the idea while sighing deeply.


“Then, do you have any ideas, Ellen?”

And so, Tigre asked that of Ellen. Ellen nodded with a confident smile and said her idea.

Although there was a dissenting opinion, since there were no alternative plans, it was decided the name of the army would be [Silver Meteor]. Tigre aside, Lim did not seem satisfied to the very end.

“Si, Silver, Meteor...”

Though Lim's expression did not change, her voice was small as she squeezed those words out. Tigre decided it was a bit pitiful and offered his help.

“Regarding our conversation regarding food and fuel a moment ago, how much do we have left?”

Lim showed relief on her face and nodded to Tigre. Though Ellen noticed what Tigre was doing and sharpened her eyes, she listened without saying anything more.

“As we are equipped now, we will last for twenty days, though we have a little leeway on our money. Because of that, we should be able to manage through the winter, so long as the neighboring towns continue selling goods. However, we will have problems should anything unexpected happen.”

“What of our contingency?”

“For example, if some aristocrat commanding two or three thousand men allied with us, we would not have the food ready.”


Imagining what might happen, Tigre's expression darkened. Though he welcomed more allies, the consumption of food would also increase.

“Also, we will be in even more trouble if Duke Tenardia interferes with the distribution of food and fuel.”

“Though it is possible Duke Tenardia could do so, it is unlikely.”

“While the townspeople are generous, we should still consider measures.”

When Lim finished, a young knight entered.

The man was tall and had a well appearing face, but there was no hair atop it. He seemed proud and looked on with a fearless attitude and spoke with an imposing tone.

“Lord Tigrevurmud, it looks like we've got a bit more trouble.”

He spoke to Tigre in a somewhat happy tone.

“Really, Rurick, what is it this time?”

In contrast to this knight – Rurick – Tigre stood up with a wearied look. Hanging the quiver to his waist, he grabbed his black bow.

“I will return and finish my meal. Please leave things as they are for me.”

“But your soup will get cold.”


“It's good, even when cool, since you made it.”

He responded with a smile. Teita looked up with an embarrassed face. Tigre glanced at Ellen and Lim.

“I'll be back in a moment.”

“Got it. Hurry up and take care of this.”

Ellen waved her hand comfortably. Lim, next to her, silently rose.

“Lim.”

Just by calling to her, Ellen held Lim back.

When Tigre and Rurick left, Ellen watched as Lim set the soup aside.

“These days, aren't you hanging around Tigre a bit much?”

“I suppose that is the case.”

“Before, you would have said he failed in dealing with trouble and would withdraw his meal.”

“We are on a battlefield. With battle possible at any moment, I cannot afford to say such things.”

Lim responded curtly before sipping her wine.

“... Like I thought. Did something happen? Well, he is the first person to have felt your chest, and he even sucked out poison from them.”

Lim choked. Though she did not spit out her wine, she coughed several times as Ellen glared at her lightly.


“I could say the very same of you. You were quite defenseless, Eleanora-sama, when Lord Tigrevurmud saw you bathing, and even when he pushed you down ---”

Lim stopped speaking feeling the weight of the eyes on her. Teita held the tableware, her face pale, looking at Lim, urging her to continue.

Lim looked back shyly and then looked to the floor. She stood up, finished her wine in a single gulp, and placed it on the table.

“... I will have a look at the troubles here.”

“Shouldn't you say you'll be helping Tigre?”

While sipping her soup, Ellen responded in a clear, unyielding tone.

“This will be a good experience for him. With his experience, six thousand troops is just about right. If he fails, you and I can manage it somehow.”

“You are willing to let him fail?”

Hearing Lim's question, Ellen looked up with a dangerous smile on her face.

“Everyone will face the frustration of failure at some point. Even you and I have, I believe.”


A faint, bitter smile floated to her unsociable face as Lim bowed.

Ellen finished her soup and gave the bowl to Teita. After that, she noticed the woman with nut-brown hair hesitating.

“I will say this for him, but I told you it was a bit different while we were drawing water this morning... I think.

“I, I see. I suppose you're right.”

Though she nodded at Ellen, she was still dubious.

“If you have difficulty ignoring these things, it's fine to ask Tigre.”

''--- I will leave this to Tigre. It should be just the right amount of experience.''

Having been pushed on nonchalantly, Ellen sipped her wine calmly.

“This is the cause of the fight?”

Clutching his black bow, Tigre left the tent with Rurick. He carefully asked so as to hide the bitterness in his expression.

A line of soldiers lined up outside the tent. As the general of the army, even if he was in a bad mood, he could not express his emotions so openly.


The smoke of cooked foods silently rose and disappeared in the morning sky.

“The cloud.”

While walking next to Tigre, Rurick pointed to the sky. Tigre looked up at the cloud.

“This is a first for me... One of the Brune soldiers noticed the cloud. You can see it resembles a horse.”

“I see. So how what about it?”

He spoke as if it were obvious. After all, Tigre was born in Brune as well.

“It is like Bayard, the horse found on the battle flag of Brune Kingdom.”

The founder of Brune Kingdom, Founder Charles, rode Bayard, a magic horse with a red body and black mane. It is said he mounted his steed and rode about the domestic grounds, anywhere in an instant. It was said at his postmortem that his soul had run to heaven.

“In our country, it is a sign that Zirnitra has passed by.”

Tigre looked satisfied.

Zirnitra was the Black Dragon of Zhcted Kingdom. The King who founded the country was an incarnation of Zirnitra in according to his proclamations.


“So, for some reason, this little argument progressed, and now people are fighting?”

“Right now, nothing has happened, but the atmosphere is pretty heavy.”

Tigre listened to Rurick's words, who was clearly amused. The bald knight seemed interested in how Tigre would handle the situation.

Though, normally, the commander should not deal with such issues, the reason Tigre came to personally address the situation was to acclimate himself to his position in the army. He would rather not leave everything to Rurick.

This is especially true if it dealt with a quarrel between soldiers.

He arrived at the scene and saw the trouble. The Zhcted soldiers outnumbered those of Brune nearly ten to one. They were glaring at each other with their teeth bared. As Rurick said, though they were not fighting, the atmosphere was volatile.

Tigre stopped his feet, took an arrow from his quiver, and nocked his bow.

“Are you aiming at their feet?”

Rurick asked a dangerous question. Actually, if he shot an arrow at their feet, it would hardly be a threat. It would be more intimidating to shoot it at the level of their line of sight. Regardless, the legends of each country were inconsequential.


“A wounded person can't fight. I have no reason to to injure anyone.”

“Certainly that is true...”

After speaking, Rurick looked at the arrow in Tigre's hand, showing interest.

“What is that?”

“It's an arrow I received from Viscount Ojie. Apparently it whistles.”

The arrow had a slightly different shape from usual. Below the arrowhead was an oval nut with small holes cut into it.

Tigre casually drew his bow string to its limits and shot the arrow to the sky. The mysterious sound blared in the wind, similar to the song of a bird.

The arrow flew in a small arc and stopped right before the soldiers, who were stunned by the strange sound.

“--- What is this commotion?”

After confirming they were no longer heated up, Tigre called out in an overbearing tone. To suppress their hot-blooded nature, it was necessary to act a little aggressively. He was well accustomed to such things as ruler of Alsace.

Though the soldiers wore awkward faces, they appealed to him and expressed their opinions. It is as he had heard from Rurick.


“In other words, the disagreement comes from whether that cloud is an omen of Bayard or Zirnitra? Is that really the source of your dispute?”

The soldiers nodded seriously. They all looked for Tigre's reaction. All the young soldiers were curious how their commander would act.

“It's both.”

“Ha.”

Hearing Tigre's words, the soldiers responded with vacant faces. They twisted their heads, since his answer did not follow Brune Scripture.

“... Is that fine?”

“Whether it's Bayard or Zirnitra, not everyone here has heard both stories. It's appropriate enough that they think it can be both.

His words cut through their momentum. Tigre was fairly well versed with the mythology of Brune, but he was not particularly knowledgeable of the myth of Zirnitra. Lim, his teacher, postponed the details of mythology.

“Whether it is Bayard or Zirnitra, you can think of it in your own way, but if you wish to disagree, I will be more than happy to be your opponent.”

The soldiers glanced at the ground where the arrow was thrust.


“No, we have no objection.”

The Zhcted soldiers withdrew first. They knew of Tigre's skill with the bow, and they noticed Rurick's presence.

“I hope none of you have anything more to say.

Beneath Tigre's gaze, the soldiers of Brune withdrew. Though they despised the arrow, they could do nothing before Tigre's attitude.

“Very well. As punishment for this commotion, today and tomorrow, all of you will have a reduced supply of fuel.”

It was a light punishment. Neither opposition nor complaints were raised.

The soldiers scattered. As Tigre retrieved the arrow, calm returned to the arrow. Rurick walked next to him and whispered praise.

“That was well done.”

Tigre responded with a sigh and bitter smile.

“It was likely due to the gaze coming from behind me, right? Thank you.”

“I was simply offering words of gratitude. There was no need to say anything for that level of action.”

“Even if it is trivial, it is proper to acknowledge your action.”

“Even if it is justifiable, its importance will decrease. It is no different from saying you love a woman. There are times when you should and should not use it.”


Tigre smiled sarcastically hearing Rurick's words.

“That's an easy to understand comparison.”

The army within Brune, the [Silver Meteor], had an odd configuration of forces. A foreign army composed more than eighty-percent of the troops, and the commander was an obscure 16 year old.

Though it was obvious quarrels would happen, Tigre's opinion was naive.

While building their camp, more than two-dozen commotions had occurred that Tigre was not aware of, probably even more.

Neither Brune nor Zhcted had large differences in language, and most of the Gods they worshiped were the same. Though there was the hope the two would be able to work together, minor differences sparked larger conflicts.

There was not too much a problem between Alsace and Territoire, but the remaining soldiers were from the Zhcted Army.


However, no one was interested in causing a fight, since they were the core of the army.

Though Viscount Ojie could mediate between the two forces, there were places his eyes never reached.

“It's a bit poor to say, but it might be best if the battle arrived earlier.”

Rurick spoke with a wry smile. Tigre seemed to ignore his words as he shrugged.

He wished to visit Duke Nemetakem, three days west, but Tigre did not move. To be more accurate, he could not move.

There were several reasons. Massas had traveled to the Royal Capital, Nice, and there was no contact. That was the largest concern.

If he were to fight against Duke Tenardia, it would be necessary to sever any connection with the King. Ideally, he could get permission, but it was unlikely to happen, especially since he invited the Zhcted Army into the country. He still needed to make the reason clear.

Tigre could assert his justice by speaking up, but, unfortunately, he had no influence.

As an aristocrat of Brune, it was necessary for him to obtain approval from the King.

When the tent came into sight, Tigre was stopped by a voice from behind.


''--- What trouble is there now?''

Ruffling his red hair somewhat aggressively, Tigre turned back to see a young soldier with a tense face.

“I come here under the name of Marquis Greast. His excellency wishes to speak with you, Earl.”

“Greast...?”

Tigre inclined his head. He had never heard the name, but it was necessary to correspond courteously if he were a Marquis.

“Did you come alone, today? Or did you come as Marquis Greast's attendant?”

Tigre thought he would have come alone, though it was arbitrary.

“... For the time being, he wishes to meet with you immediately. He has prepared a table and chair two hundred alsin from here.”

Not knowing whether he was an ally or not, it was obvious why he was being cautious.

After listening to instructions from the soldier, he walked at a brisk pace. Tigre entered a tent accompanied by Rurick, the soldier allowing entry at once.

A bright light shined inside the tent. An elder gentleman wearing loose-fitting clothes quietly sipped porridge. He looked at Tigre and smiled like a good-natured grandfather.

“I apologize for my poor manners, but it cools quickly. I hope you can pardon my actions.”


“No, I apologize for interrupting your meal.”

Tigre responded with a smile. Rurick stood a half step behind and nodded silently while kneeling before Ojie. Tigre immediately explained the situation with Marquis Greast. The smile disappeared from his face.

“Old man Greast?”

“Do you know of him?”

“I have met him a few times before. I would have to say he is Duke Ganelon's right-hand man...”

The wrinkles on his face increased as he explored his memory. He then remembered he had a dish of porridge and a spoon in his hand.

“Right, he received a letter from Massas. Ganelon's army has been moved to Alsace. That is what Marquis Greast wrote.”

Tigre's complexion changed. If he had not stopped for Massas, he would have reached Alsace before Tenardia's army. It seems the news was hardly good.

“What will you do?”

“For now, I will listen to his story. It would be bothersome to let things be.”


“In that case, allow me to accompany you. I will see if this Marquis Greast is the real thing.”

He wore his wooden geta and followed after Tigre.

<big><big><big><big>◎</big></big></big></big>

The air was unnaturally dry, the room was unnaturally lit.

In the dark, a small elderly person wrapped in a black robe flipped through a book. A normal person would be absorbed in deciphering the characters which were difficult to read.

He was in a room in Duke Tenardia's mansion.

The elder man's name was Drekvak. He served as a soothsayer for the Duke starting a few years ago. Many considered him an odd doctor. Only Duke Tenardia, who employed him, knew of his true ability.

Drekvak silently flipped through the pages. Suddenly, his slender fingers stopped, pinching a wrinkled page. He noticed someone approaching the room.

The door opened without any greeting. Before it stood a young man.

“Hey, it's been a while.”


He raised his hand and spoke with a jovial voice. Even in the dark room, it was easy to tell he was a man of medium build. He wore thick clothes, decorated with fur along the collar and sleeves. A green turban wrapped about his head and his short, black hair hung to his shoulders.

He took steps in a calm manner. He gave the impression of being an elusive individual.

“So you came, Vojanoy.”

With his back turned, Drekvak stated his business promptly.

“Do you know of Muozinel Plain in Alsace? It is to the northeast.”

“Ah, that's where the boy lost miserably.”

Vojanoy responded, his smile not receding even a little.

“I want you to go there.”

While Drekvak continued to flip through his book, he continued speaking.

“I want you to retrieve the wyvern corpse that dropped in the marshes of Muozinel Plains.”

“The dragon's corpse? What of the boy's corpse which fell there?”

“It does not matter.”

The old man in a black robe spoke as if he were talking about a roadside pebble.


“You only need to bring me the wyvern remains.”

“Oh? Why are you suddenly interested in this?”

While playing with his green turban, Vojanoy voiced his question.

“I am bothered about something.”

Drekvak, continuing his thoughts, spoke in a gloomy tone.

“There were two bright light there. I understand one came from the Vanadis, but I have not heard of the source of the other.”

Vojanoy waited for the rest of the story, but Drekvak spoke no more. Understanding he should not pursue any further, the youth shrugged his shoulders.

“The Vanadis... It seems the Silver Blade is in the country. What will you do?”

A dangerous light shined in the boy's eyes. Drekvak perceived the change in the youth standing behind him.

“I will let others take care of that. Regrettably, we cannot win that battle.”

“Oh? Who in this country could oppose the Vanadis?”

“The Black Knight Roland, the man who possesses the [{{furigana|Sword of Invincibility|Durandal}}].”

Hearing Drekvak's answer, Vojanoy had an unexpected reaction.


“I wonder if that burden will be too heavy.”

“It cannot be helped. There are no weapons to oppose a {{furigana|Dragonic Tool|Viralt}} other than the [Sword of Invincibility]. The legend of our country states it was a weapon created by God, bestowed to the founder, who remained ignorant of its utility.”

Looking back at the old man laughing with a muffled voice, Vojanoy, shrugged his shoulders in his mind.

“So... You want me to dive into that swamp? It's not exactly a pleasant job.”

The answer was as anticipated. Drekvak removed his hand from the book and pointed to the corner of the room. There, bags of gold received from Duke Tenardia lay on the ground, as if casually thrown aside.

“Take it.”

Vojanoy smiled from ear to ear. Walking to the corner nimbly, he used both hands to take gold coins out of the bags.

He held them as if he loved them and dropped them into his mouth. The sound of coins rustling could be heard as they traveled down his throat.

When all coins were swallowed, Vojanoy bowed to Drekvak in an exaggerated manner.

“Thanks for the business.”

<noinclude>
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"
|-
| Back to [[Madan_no_Ou_to_Vanadis:Volume03_Illustrations|Illustrations]]
| Return to [[Madan_no_Ou_to_Vanadis|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Madan_no_Ou_to_Vanadis:Volume_03_Chapter_2_Preview|Chapter 2 Preview]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>