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Zero no Tsukaima:Volume8 Chapter6 - MTL

2008-10-27T12:02:15Z

71.220.226.60:

It was just the second moon of January since the end of the war… On the first week of the moon of Hagar, on Freyja's week, one by one, nobles from all countries gathered up in Albion’s capital Londonium.

Londonium.

Compared to all other cities of Halkeginia, had a new atmosphere around it. To the central portion of the town was made from skillfully handled stones, which continued to build up due to constant ruling.

One hundred years ago, Londonium was hit with conflagration, and because the town outlines were made of wood, it almost burned down completely. By the order of that time Albion’s king, wooden constructions of buildings were forbidden in Londonium since then.

It was also a meant to increase Albion's air force power that would roar over Halkeginia, as it protected the timber resources needed. It had the powerful fleet established with abundant timber, and looked down at all Halkeginia from above the clouds…

However, now it was only a fairy tale of the past.

At present – Albion was a poultry placed on the table. Wings and nails were taken off and put on the plate – burnt poultry. Helkeginia’s most powerful were staring at the meat like starving wolves.

The havirand palace of Londonium was filled with people like in a party.

Galia, Germania, Romalia… kings and the emperors of each country came on their will with many vassals as waiters just to fight over the share of this poultry.

The Queen of the Kingdom of Tristain, Henrietta’s name was also listed in the ‘Nations conference’, as she was invited to attend the part two weeks ago.

Henrietta sat at the round table of Whitehall.

Next to her, Cardinal Mazarini could be seen. Near them was Germania’s emperor, whom Henrietta was about to have married before, Albrecht the III. In the duel for power between 40 men, he won emperor's seat and now was looking at Henrietta with dirty-minded eyes

When Henrietta glared back courageously, he gave a broad grin.

“Nice to meet you, Your Highness Princess Henrietta.”

“I’m afraid I am a queen now, Your Excellency.”

The nose of Albrecht the III turned pale.

He looked grateful at the Romalia’s ambassador, who sat in front of Henrietta. Romalia, who had a small militia participation, had very little to say in this conference.

Therefore, only the ambassador was participating.

Nearside, General Hawkins was fulfilling his duty as the plenipotentiary Albion ambassador. Dauntless features were on this man; in his prime years face. Despite kings were sitting in a row before him, he had no fear. Hos chest was put out in a dignified manner, not showing the pathos of the defeated army general. Germania’s emperor who sat next him, didn’t like such an attitude at all.

“But…that guy is late.”

Albrecht the III muttered to Henrietta.

“You mean king Joseph?”

Joseph, the king Galia, has not shown up yet.

“Yes. The incapable lady-killer. No one else from the country suited to be Galia’s king. Do you know? It is said that he got the throne by killing his younger brother. Such a very shameless person.”

Such were the rumors…

Loud steps were heard behind the door, then it opened.

There stood a beautiful looking blue-haired man.

The announcer called in a perplexed tone.

“His Majesty; King of Galia!”

He seemed to have a charming figure. Visible back muscles were like one of the ancient gladiators'. The neatly tightened face, framed by a blue beard.

It was Joseph, king of Galia.

The king of Galia watched everyone who gathered, with a broad smile on his face.

“This, this! Everyone is here! All Helkeginia’s kings meeting in this place, unbelievable! A happy day! A happy day!”

Joseph notices Albrecht the III and tapped his shoulder.

“Dear emperor, Your Excellency! I am sorry for not attending the coronation! Are your relatives doing fine? I mean the ones that you lent your castle, so that you may hold that crown.”

Albrecht the III turned pale. This castle ‘lending’ - scathing sarcasm. Joseph was making fun of Albrecht the III, who imprisoned his rivals in the castle tower.

“A hard door and splendid chains were used for their own protection! Moreover, they are even given food. One bread crust, one glass of water, and firewood after two weeks when their bodies became cold. The purpose is to keep them healthy. The luxury is bad for the body. You are really a kind emperor! I would like to learn that too!”

“Aye, thank you.” Albrecht the III muttered, loosing his composure. Then Joseph turned his face and this time took Henrietta’s hand.

“Oh. Princess Henrietta. You have grown. I wonder if you still remember me? We met at the end of a certain garden party at Langdorian lake. At that time, you were beautiful like a flower, that made all Halkeginia’s flower hang their heads in shame. And now you are a beautiful queen of peaceful Trsitain. Aye. Peaceful.”

Without looking at Hawkins and the ambassador in Romalia, king Joseph sat at the head of the table. As if it was most natural thing.

Though Albrecht the III made a face as if wanting to say something… Joseph waved it off. Then, as if still in his royal palace, he cracked his finger joints.

Then the servants brought trays with various dishes – like Howai, Toho, etc were brought in.

Before Henrietta and Albrecht the III, a large amount of food were placed. Henrietta and others looked at it in astonishment. It generously included even abundantly gorgeous ingredients. For such one plate some people would not be able to earn even working one full year.

“The dish and the wine I obtained from Galia. I am sorry for the shoddiness, but this dish is nothing compared to the treat from the whole country, so enjoy yourselves!”
The waiter poured wine into the cup, which king Joseph hung.

Henrietta’s and others cups were filled with blood-red wine as well.

“Leaders of all Halkeginia. Though it is small, first of all, let us hold the feast of celebration. The war ended. Peacefully, let’s take a toast for us!“

<center>* * *</center>

The feast continued for three hours…and ended because of a sudden retire from Joseph, Galia’s king. After only making noises of eats and drinking, he yawned, said "I am sleepy" and stood up, leaving in a hurry.

As for the conference itself - nothing was done. King of Galia whenever opened his mouth did nothing but recommend cooking to kings, who sat in a row, and toasting, repeatedly.

Puzzled, Henrietta and others left as well.

“We are being conciliated - the real thing will start tomorrow.”

Germania’s emperor muttered and while shaking his belly stuffed with gorgeos dish, went out of the Whitehall. Henrietta listlessly, with elbows tightly pressed against her side, stood up.

That moment…General Hawkins came in front of Henrietta. And bowed deeply.

“With all due respect, may I have a word with Your Majesty.”

Mazarin, who was nearby tried to intervene but Henrietta stopped him.

“First of all thank you for the generous treatment all Albion’s people received. They are exhausted by a long war. You controlled not with the wand but with the bread. By the power that beautiful His Majesty shines upon everyone, the people of the white country were led correctly. With all this generous treatment…could you not ask for compensation.”

“Right or wrong was the war – the people should not be punished. Don’t worry.”

Hawkins bowed deeply. Henrietta tried to pass him but he still detained her.

“Is there something else?”

“Your Majesty…. Your Majesty’s army was saved by only one hero. Do you know that?”

Henrietta shook her head.

As a matter of fact, the rumor about Saito stopping the Albion army was not delivered to Henrietta. Senior military officials could never admit being saved by a single fencer. As a result, such rumor was silenced before reaching Henrietta in a shape of report.

“I do not know.”

“Honestly. Honestly… running away generals in attempt to save their own hides, changed the story in their country.”

“What was that?”

Hawkins told Henrietta.

How Albion army, that pursued Allied Forces, was stopped by a single swordsman.

As a result, the Albion army missed Allied Forces which tried to run away from Rosais…

Henrietta’s mind was in turmoil. The heart that never trembled after the end of the war, now began to shake.

“Swordsman…Really?”

“Yes, swordsman. Black haired boy with a foreigner’s face.”

Not hiding feelings, with straight look, Hawkins said.

“The hero raged on, he even pointed a sword to the tip of my nose, until he fell down exhausted. Then, he started to move again and disappeared in the forest… I guess, he did not survive with all those injuries. Yet, it was his deed that saved Your Majesty’s army. Only one swordsman… held back tens of thousands of army troops. It’s a must to give a corresponding honor for the hero.”

“I see. Thank you.”

Henrietta thanked in a shaky voice.

Black haired fencer from a foreign country.

…Could it be Louise’s familiar, listed between the names of killed in action?

Hiragasaito.

Strange sounding name.

Boy who came from the different world

Void’s familiar.

Legendary Gandalfr…

Some time ago when my mind was blinded, when I turned my wand to Louise…He stopped my spell, Henrietta recalled.

Once again, he stopped.

Not once, but twice… he stopped it.

Hawkins said, looking distant.

“If not him… Today, Your Majesty’s and mine seats would have been reversed. By all means, bless that brave man. In the name of Your Majesty, give him the blessing.”

<center>* * *</center>

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume7 Chapter6 - MTL

2008-10-19T11:05:08Z

71.220.226.60:

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===Chapter Six: Truce===

[[Image:ZnT07-135.jpg|thumb]]

In Tristania, capital of Tristain, inside of the work room, a 17 year old queen closed her eyes in silent prayer.

It was pretty cold in the work room, where all of useless decoration were taken away.

Like in a mausoleum.

In the center of the room, all wrapped up in black dress and covered with thick veil, Henrietta was kneeling.

In front of her stood a small altar, decorated with a small Founder Brimir’s image on the inside.

Founder Brimir’s image looked like it was mould for Halkeginia’s advent.

His hands extended wide as if opening the door, an abstract image. It is not easy to see him as a person.

The reason for that is that drawing founders traits in details was held to be disrespectful.

To tell the truth, no one knew founders detailed traits anyway.

While she was silently praying, she heard someone knocking on the door.

“Your Majesty, it’s me.” Cardinal Mazarini's voice.

At first she tried to grab the wand and recite the ‘Unlock’ spell… but then Henrietta shook her head, placed the wand on the table, stood up and unlocked the door.

Mazarini, entered Henrietta's work room, and apologized as she puckered up her brows.

“Were you in the middle of work? Forgive my impoliteness.”

“It’s all right.” Henrietta answered.

“I’m not so sure about that. You were praying from dawn till evening. Even if I go somewhere or come back, it's still the same.”

Mazarini watched her coolly. The rumors that, after the Albion invasion Henrietta prayed all day long, were true.

Henrietta tried to explain herself.

“This powerless queen can do nothing but offer her prayers.”

“Why you are dressed up in black? White suits Your Majesty much better.”

“It’s a war. Many officers and men have fallen. I'm mourning.”

Mazarini, shifting his eyes in embarrassment, reported to Henrietta.

“Yesterday, our Allied Forces captured South Gotha. This way, our positions in Londonium were secured.”

“Please send my congratulations to general De Poitiers.”

“Certainly. One more thing…”

“Bad news?”

“That’s right. Allied Forces demanded the replenishment of food. It is necessary to send it at once.”

“But, based on the calculations, it'll take another 3 weeks”,

Mazarini said while looking at the report in his hand.

“Obusousugot city resources were emptied. Albion army had to give some to the local residents.”

“Are enemies worried about the food as well?”

“No. The purpose is to make our army worried. They foresaw our food delivery and took all the food from the residents.”

“That was cruel.”

“It's a war.”

Henrietta nodded.

“Please arrange.”

“Certainly. However… our treasury is making us more and more worried.”

“And minister of finances?”

“He is conferring with the Galia ambassador.”

“Galia?”

“The debt application. It takes a lot of money to fight.”

Henrietta watched her own hand. Then she said in constrained voice.

“We have to win. So, we only to have to win. We will return money from Albion’s purse then.”

“Though the day when that purse is obtained seems to be going away a little.”

“What?”

Henrietta's face became cloudy. Bad news seemed to favor this side.

“The enemy application for the truce came.”

“Truce? For how long?”

From the day after tomorrow, until the ending of the advent festival. It is a custom that between advent festivals the war also takes a break.”

The advent festival continues till the tenth, the biggest festival in Halkeginia. Because the advent festival starts during the first day of the new year… it will start after another week or less.

“Fighting will stop for as many as two weeks? No way! Custom or not, such thing cannot be admitted! Moreover, they can’t be trusted as they shamelessly broke the truce agreement before! They tried to attack the academy of magic and take all children hostages! With such mean company…”

Academy of Magic was attacked the next day that the invasion fleet had left. Though students were fortunately safe, repressing it still took some victims.

“Though it doesn’t inspire confidence, we don’t have much to choose from. We still need to bring over the food. Until then, the army cannot move.”

“Then drop Londonium for another week! All fleet! All troops! Why do you think we used our trump card – Void?!” Henrietta pressed Mazarini on.

Prime minister gave an advice for the enraged queen.

“Your Majesty. Soldiers and generals are also people. Making them overwork will not lead you anywhere. Though I understand that you want to reach the conclusion early… concede here.”

Henrietta held herself back and hung her head.

“…I said too much. Please forget. You are right about it all.”

After immediately signing the truce treaty, Mazarini stood up, but stopped at the door and turned around.

“Your Majesty, when the war ends, take these black clothes off. They do not suit you.”

Henrietta did not answer.

Mazarini said in a gentle, father-like voice.

“Let it be. It’s enough, mourn only for your mother.”

After the cardinal left, Henrietta let out a sigh.

“Aah. What I am saying – Louise of Void?”

She muttered in a sad, silent voice.

“… for the goal, I am changing an important person into a tool.”

<center>* * *</center>

In South Gotha, the third day after signing the truce with sacred Albion republic came into being.

Inside the room of the inn that Allied Forces took over, Louise sat in front of the fireplace.

In four days the new year will begin. Then, founder's advent festival will start.

Though the war has not ended yet; the town was wrapped in strangely restless atmosphere. No, war may be the reason why they want to act so loudly. For the people of Albion it could be the only chance to relax.

The truce period was like a present from the founder; and South Gotha citizens as well as the Tristain and Germania soldiers, wanted to enjoy themselves fully.

People, dressed up in various colorful clothes, strode cheerfully through town.

Because Albion, the floating continent, was located 3,000 mails above the sea level, the winters were sudden and harsh.
　
A skinny person like Louise was exceedingly sensitive to the cold. She experienced Albion’s winter for the first time. All wrapped up blanket, she trembled in front of brightly burning fireplace.

Louise called Saito, who was sitting alone, away from her, doing something

“It’s cold, isn’t it. Why don’t you come in front of the fireplace?”

There is no answer. Then Louise recalled the recent fight after meeting again.

Louise complained to Saito.

“Hey, Saito. Are you listening to me? It is cold! Are you still worrying about the other day, well I forgave you already! You must stay healthy! It’s a familiar’s responsibility!”

There is no answer again. Saito sat on the side of the bed, his back turned to Louise, doing something furiously.

“What are you doing?”

Still wrapped up in blanked, she approached him and saw Saito doing something with the wine bottle’s cork.

“Wha-“

She stretched her neck, trying to see, but he hid it.

“Show me!” Louise pushed Saito aside. Saito showed no resistance.

On top of the small cork was a small cut

“What?”

Saito kept silently plucking the cork. Leaving small cuts with his fingernails.

Apparently he was killing time by cutting cork.

…Gloomy. Too gloomy. Such way of killing time looked way too depressing.

“Stop it, already…Too gloomy…”

Saito quietly muttered.

“Not gloomy.”

“Annoying familiar!”

“Mole.”

Mole. Louise does not like him. She wants lofty boy.

He became irritated while thinking so.

“What mole? Get yourself together!”

She pushed him away, dumbfounded, Saito tumbled,

“Hey, answer me. Hey! Hey, hey! Mole. Mo-mole.”

Rubbing his cheek, Saito stared at Louise.

Louise shrugged uncomfortably and thought angrily. Yada, wasn’t it like that, when he pushed me down the other day? Get yourself together! Enough! Will that idiot familiar attack me now? Ya-yada – her body trembled.

That’s why she tried to provoke him. But she could never admit it to the person in question.

However, Saito simply stood up and walked towards the door.

“W-where are you going?!” She asked, disappointed.

“For a walk.” He answered briefly/ And then Saito was gone out of the room.

Louise came dragging the loose blanket, back to the fireplace, and sat down hugging her knees. Derflinger, who was leant against the wall, called out Louise.

“Foolish woman.”

After these words, Louise’s face popped out of the blanket.

“W-what… He’s at fault! He always hesitates…”

“And who do you think is the cause of that?”

“I d-don’t know!”

Lost, Louise shouted

“Then I’ll tell you. Partner is completely convinced that you don’t like him.”

Louise bit her lips.

“I-it’s natural! He is a familiar, and I am a noble!”

“Really?”

Louise’s face crumbled. Showing her girlish side, Louise sulked.

“H-he is evil. What if I am cold and lone, but he goes with other girls instead…"

“What did you say when he confessed? Instead you talked about something you haven’t witnessed and left, all what that housemaid said was ‘unbuttoned’. Thus affair is doubtful, but you selfishly made your own conclusion.”

“Uuh…”

“Haah, therefore, you put out a display of flirting with a handsome boy. Don’t you think you overdid it? Anyway, if only it was just about display, but you just had to go and make that cruel remark. ‘If I would get riding behind anyone’s back, then he should at least be good-looking’ was it.”

Louise cast her eyes down

“When you look at it that Romalia priest is indeed better looking. One can’t compare the faces. It’s like comparing flying creatures - fly and phoenix. Or land walking creatures - mole and lion. Or water creatures – water fly and swan.”

“…Aren’t you exaggerating?”

“Probably, anyhow, it wasn’t about the face. Partner patiently did not go to the east lands , just to keep you company. To you he even confessed ’love’. I guess such ‘loyalties embodiment’ is said to be no good at all. His pathetic self can’t compete in handsomeness with other men. However, partner shows courage in trouble, because he said he loves you…”

Louise listened to words, for five minutes, and blushed furiously. Then, she come to the window and looked outside, looked behind the curtain, opened the closet, sought under the desk, and once she finally confirmed that there was none in the room to listen, she turned back to the legendary sword.

“Hey, is it true? To whom he said that? How?”

“Partner is very single-minded about that. Though it’s up to you - to believe or not.”

With a blush on her cheeks, Louise became silent.

"Really, it was obvious that partner looked to be in a bad mood.”

Louise bluntly puffed her cheeks.

“I-I got it already. I forgive him! Isn’t it good enough?!”

“Then apologize, tell those little, gentle words.”

“Me? Why?! Apologizing to him…”

“Normally it should be done by both, however now it is your turn to give in, because you were nasty.”

For a while, Louise groaned – Uuuh, auuu, iiiii – regretting

“I got it already! Only need to apologize! Just apologize!”

She shouted. Was that an apologizing attitude?　

However, Derflinger muttered warningly.

“But partner was seriously sulking this time… he was truly disgusted by you, you know. Such apology might not be enough.”

Louise started to look troubled.

“Worried?”

“D-don’t be stupid! It will be all right! No one can ask more for an apology!”

“Hmmm”

Derflinger became silent. Because he wasn’t saying anything for a while, Louise grew impatient.

Eventually Louise became restless. She took up a firewood which was placed near the fireplace and ‘Piiiiin’ started to peel it off.

“Gloomy way of killing time.”

“Shut up! Well, then, tell me! Teach me what do I have to do!”

“Love.”

“Haaa?”

“Tell - I am in love with Saito!”

“I can’t say such thing!”

“Do you hate him?”

“I-it’s not that…”

Louise hesitated.

“Well, then, aren’t you in love?

“I-it’s not that! Anyway, I am saying that I want to say, that I am not saying that I am saying, that I am not in love! Uuuuh! Idiot! Worn-out sword!”

“Haah, if you are like that, then pushing down is out of the question, right?"

“That’s a splendid idea.”

“Really?”

“Splendid. Stop joking! What kind of idea is that, for a master-sama to push down! Seriously…”

“You won’t push him down?”

“It’s out of the question! Stupid!”

“Aah, but being pushed down by a loving partner, and then embraced tightly, was pleasant, wasn’t it?”

With scarlet blush on her cheeks, Louise cast her eyes down, and said in a tiny voice.

“…that, c-could you talk about something else?” she asked.

“Then push him down.”

“I-I don’t want to do that! Seriously! I’ll only embarrass myself. Besides it would be hard to push Gendalfr down. Hey.”

“Saying so.”

“Anyway, I am La Valliere’s third daughter. I can’t say I love you to such a foolish familiar. Thus , not love. Really. He is the one who loves me, well, I admit, it feels nice. It feels great when he worships me. But it’s not enough! Do you understand?!”

“I understand… you are troubled by obstacles…”

“Anyway, faster, teach me of another way to mend his mood.”

“Make love.”

Louise slowly stood up, and started to cast a spell.

“It won’t blow you off. I’ll melt you. Answer now, without joking. Do you anything else to offer?”

Derflinger trembled.

“I’m over”

He muttered.

“What?”

“It’s very hard for me to think. I’m just a sword. Legendary.”

“Because you are legendary, you should be more attentive to remarks.”

“No words are good enough, if you hide your feelings, behind unbreakable pride.”

Louise stepped back, thought for a while, and nodded.

“…What you said, is probably true. Though you are a sword you can understand human inner thoughts.”

“It’s because I lived so many years among them. And worked with them. It comes naturally. Now then, talking about your situation…”

Louise and Derflinger discussed for a while… deciding a strategy.

<center>* * *</center>

Saito sat down on a bench in a central plaza of south Gotha, watching the people passing the road. Soldiers of Tristain and Germania, and citizens of south Gotha all passed with lamplights. Allied Forces that occupied the streets; walked proudly thrusting out their chests. As it was a truce period, they get drunk, cut loose, and run after young girls, and end up being shouted on by noble officers.

However faces of either citizens of south Gotha, unlike defeated countries people, did not seem very sad. Sure, they were not pleased by the fact that town was flooded by additional people. Yet, Aristocrat faction Reconquista, present Albion political power, was not in a great favor here.

Besides, because they delivered food, Allied Forces seem to be accepted as the liberation army.

Though the rampart was partially destroyed, the attack upon the urban area, was avoided as much as possible, so there were hardly any looses for the town and citizens. In relation to their wars end and the start of anticipated advent festival, citizens were smiling broadly.

“Haah” Saito let out a sigh.

Within the happy town the only dark face is mine.

Then he stared at the rune on his left hand.

Haa, the power passed on a big load to me, he thought. When this war ends, I will surely go to east lands. Louise will not need me anymore….

Thinking this way, he grew even more lonely. And nostalgia hit him again. Saito recalled the hometown.in the different world In the alien world… in the foreign town of the foreign country that he did not get used to, nostalgia filled his chest suddenly.

Being wrapped up in such painful feelings… Saito was called from the back.

“Saito-san!”

Saito, for a moment could not recognize whose voice it was. That voice shouldn’t be here on this street.

The next moment arms wrapped up tightly around Saito from the back, and he was pushed to the ground

“Yaaan, being able to meet so soon! Feels great! Ka-n-ge-ki!”

Barely thinking, he turned around, just to see a shining Siesta’s face, with a broad smile.

“S-Siesta? Why?”

Saito panicked. Why is Siesta here? This is an Albion, continent on the cloud. It’s not the place for the Magic Academy’s maid Siesta to be in.

“Hmmm? What did Siesta-chan meet here?”

A deep voice came from the back. It sounded sweetened.

“Manager Scarron?”

Manager Scarron was an effeminate man, dressed up in tight leather clothes. He managed the “Charming Faries” inn where Saito and Louise worked one summer. And next to him was Scarron’s daughter Jessica. Saito stared at them all with widely opened eyes.

<center>* * *</center>

“Consolation corps?”

In a café facing the plaza, Saito asked loudly. Slurping the beer, smiling Scarron said, while puckering up his brows.

“Souyoo! The reason for that is that additional food needed to be sent, thus the consolation corps was organized! To go to Albion…”

Scarron looked at the pilling up dishes and shook his head.

“The dishes are horrible! Only beer to drink! Women too thin! What a notorious place!”

Indeed, if you look around the plaza, shops serving wine can not be found. Only tea and the beer. The Albion people do not drink wine, Scarron explained, plainly puckering up his brows.

“Really! Such an unpalatable beer is the same as drinking phlegm, Tristain people with taste would never drink this! Therefore, Tristanian inns can earn much from such business trips. I want to open White Arrow’s Inn here. This way 'Charming Fairies' inn would establish next to Royal families! Aaah, the honor!”

Scarron wiggled his body. Girls, brought from the inn, seconded him in joyful chorus.

“Honor! Mi mademoiselle!”

Scarron rose up above the table. Saito almost burst into tears.

“Is Saito-kun that a soldier-san? Why did you come to the Albion?”

“No, I’m not a soldier…”

“Let it out. Mi mademoiselle is a man, he’ll understand.”

Mi mademoiselle being a man still needs to be confirmed, Saito thought while nodding vaguely.

Then he remembered Siesta, sitting next to him and smiling broadely.

“But, why is Siesta coming along?” He asked.

“She’s a relative.”

Frightened to death Saito stared at Scarron. Could someone as sweet as Siesta be Scarron’s relative?

“M-manager’s..?”

“Yes. From the mother side…”

Siesta muttered shamefully.

“Could be that the tavern where Saito-san worked during this year summer…”

“He worked in it. That’s how we got acquainted.”

Jessica explained. Then Jessica looked at Saito across the table.

“Siesta is my cousin. You know each other, right?”

Indeed, they both had black hair. Which was unusual in this world.

Siesta hesitated before saying.

“As soon as Saito left, the school was attacked by an Albion burglar.”

‘Eh? Eeh?! Eh?”

Saito was surprised by the topic. Due to consideration of the troop morale, the news about own country hardly ever reaches the battlefield.

“We did not understood what was happening when the lodging-house shook…There was a big uproar…Some died.”

Siesta said with a sad face.

Saito was worried about the people left in the school. Are the people that he knows included into ‘Dead People’ list?

“Who became victims?’

“As commoners, we were not told about details…” Siesta said apologetically.

What if it is a person I know, Saito thought. Though it is sad when whoever dies, but it is a lot more saddening when it happens to a person one knows.　

“And the school has been closed until the war ends. I thought what to do and decided to help uncle with his inn.”

“Sie-chan worked here in the past.”

“When I got to the inn, I saw uncle Scarron-san and Jessica's packing luggage together… They explained that they are going to Albion.”

“That’s why you decided to go along?”

When Saito said so, Siesta nodded with a blush.

“Ye-yeah…and…”

“And?”

“I thought I will be able to meet S-Saito-san here…”

Jessica leaned over, scrutinizing the pair.

“Eh? What? Siesta and Saito are intimate? I was certain it was Louise…”

After Jessica’s words, Siesta’s eyes shone.

“Is Miss Valliere doing fine?”

“Y-yes” Saito nodded.

Uncomfortable silence followed.

Grinning, Jessica approached Saito.

“So you are still together. Sorry, I misunderstood.”

"No, not particularly …” Saito muttered, feeling mixed emotions.

“Aaah, Louise-chan is here as well? Then lets go and greet her.” Scarron said while fiddling with his fingernails.

<center>* * *</center>

Meanwhile, Louise, under the guidance of Derflinger, developed an “How to mend Saito’s mood” operation.

Following Derflinger’s instructions, Louise bought various materials from the inn shop.

“This! You must be joking!”

Louise screamed at the sword.

“It’s not a joke. It’s a proper apology to my partner.”

Derflinger said in a serious voice.

“But why as an animal?! I’m a noble, a noble! Understand?!”

“Because of your high-handed status, how else you are going to apologize?”

“So you think turning into familiar helps?!”

“That’s right. It’s a great strategy. ‘Saito, I’m sorry for my malicious remarks. For today, I’ll be your familiar.’”

Derflinger said, imitating Louise’s voice.

“If you were to say ‘Please’ in such state, then maybe a partner, as he is rather simple, would forgive all your crimes?”

Louise shook her head and said.

“Mo, but not looking like this animal.”

“Huu”

“Why black cat?!”

“Black cat is the most popular familiar. Thefore, black cat suits. It is a comprehensible. What is important is comprehension.”

Louise cheeks blushed, while she stared at the black cat costume material, lined up in front of her.

“Well at least I will make these parts by myself.”

Louise took out the sewing set that she borrowed from the inn, and from fur, leather, and strings started making 'Black cat's clothes' , as Derflinger said.

While grappling with a fur for a while…she completed the Black cat’s clothes. Though Louise had zero talent in sewing, somehow she still managed to make such simplistic shape.

Since now, the clothes were completed, Louise went near trhe mirror, to witness the destructive power of the black cat’s costume.

“W-what’s this! With such clothes I would embarrass myself before everyone!”

“It suits you well” Derflinger said in a composed voice.

“Why ears!”

Louise shouted while pointing to the object on her head, which imitated cat’s ears. It was also cut out from black fur and attached to the top of her head.

“It looks nicely.”

“But what about these clothes! Lewd! It’s lewd!”

Trembling, Louise pointed at her image in the mirror. In short, only the key parts of her body were covered with black fur.

Black fur tight cloth was rolled around her breasts. She wore furry panties too. And, like socks, bits of fur were placed around her ankles.

The tail, made from remaining material, ran down her buttocks.

“No, every part of black cat costume is splendid.” Derflinger said like it was somebody else's problem.

“What! Just a look at it makes ones head boil!”

Louise said in a painful voice. She now regretted listening to the sword.

“No, your body is young, it starts to originate a wild charm. Partner will be trounced.”

Louise suddenly stopped.

“This is one, flirty attire, right? Partner will instantly jump on it.”

“N-not of that sort. Stop joking.” While saying so, Louise began making poses in front of the mirror. Not fully convinced.

Fidgeting her fingers hesitatingly, she bent tilting her head, then, with both hands on the floor, she turned around and tried out a sobbing pose.

“What. You want to be jumped on?”

“N-no! T-trying out, I’m just trying out! Honestly! I just feel uneasy!

Eventually Louise became pleased with the pose.

“Ah, it’s nice. Cute.”

She said. And received an agreement from Derflinger.

“Good. Stick with it.”

However, once calming herself down, her embarrassment kicked in again.

“I-it’s impossible after all! Impossible!”

“This pose is just to raise his spirit, that’s all”

“Even so, hey…. But somewhat, hey… I, duke’s daughter… legendary…As expected… I can’t do such thing. Don’t feel like it.”

“I tell you. Because of you the partner is sulking.”

“Uuh…”

“Just do it for one single day. Use woman’s important charms. Yes.”

“…But.”

Derflinger used the trump card.

“Do you want to lose to that maid?”

Louise’s eyebrows shot up.

“What? Loose to whom?”

“No, nothing to worry about! As expected from ‘Void’!

“I won’t happen. M-maid will be the one to loose.”

At that moment. The doorknob of the room turned.

“Aaah, the partner came back.”

Then Louise breathes deeply in and out, stood up in front of the door.

“Remember. Noble’s daughter. Leave your pride behind, be charming. All right?”

“I-I know!”

The next moment, the door swung open.

Louise blushed, squeezing her eyes shut, bent, forced herself to not cover her breasts with her hands, placed the thumb of the left hand under the lips, put the right hand on her hips, and screamed out the previously with Derflinger decided words.

[[Image:ZnT07-163.jpg|thumb]]

“Yoyoyo-yo-you are my master for today!”

Then…Louise waited for the partner's reaction.

However, there was no answer. It felt like infinity.

What! Though? Rejected? The heat of anger boiled in Louise's head.

“Say something! I won’t wait forever!”

Then, Louise opened her eyes… however it wasn’t sight of Saito that greeted her eyes.

“M-m-m-miss Valliere?”

The one who stood there was pale-faced, trembling Siesta.

“Ara, Louise-chan. What is this costume?”

“Pu. Pupu. When did you turn into cat?”

It wasn’t just Siesta. There were Scarron and Jessica too. Saito stick his head out from the backs of his friends.

“Wait. Brought sake. N? Why does no one enter the room?”

Then Saito noticed Louise dressed up in black cat’s clothes.

“Wh-what’s the meaning of this? You…”

Louise screamed.

“Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!”

<center>* * *</center>

“Louise-chan is so cute.” Scarron muttered, sitting on a chair.

“Pu. Pupu. Pupupu.” Jessica held her mouth, desperately trying to suppress her laughter.

Frowning Siesta watched the chipped ball of fur that Louise used.

Louise hid herself behind the covers, and did not get out from the bed.

Though everything calmed down, there was no reply.

Confused Saito asked Derflinger.

“Wha-what happened?”

“Well, that’s masterpiece…”

After his words, blanked flew up, Louise, who completely forgot about her black cat’s clothes she was wearing, flew out of the bed, kicked the sword and silently returned back to the bed.

Siesta stared at Louise.

Saito looked doubtful.

Jessica looked out of the window.

“Snow started to fall, getting cold.” She muttered.

“Advent festival of snow… waah, how romantic.” Scarron wiggled his body

----

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| [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter5|Back to Chapter 5]]
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| [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter7|Forward to Chapter 7]]
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Zero no Tsukaima:Volume8 Chapter1 - MTL

2008-10-16T09:02:13Z

71.220.226.60:

{{Template:PREVIEW}}

===Chapter One: Each End of the War===

“How about it? This was a reward from bristle spirits of the dead.”

Guiche, proud as a peacock, showed his White Hair Soul‘s medal to the classmates.

“Waah“ classmates sighed.

“Could it be that it’s not white hair but bristles?”

Someone commented, Guiche blushed.

“Aah! Don’t say that! White hair reward!”

Guiche glimpsed at the nook of the classroom. Montmorency was there. Though all classmates have gathered around Guiche, Montmorency, on the other hand, rested her elbows on a desk and stared outside the window, looking disinterested. Hey, look this way, I want you to hear the story… Guiche felt hurt for a moment.

“Great…Guiche, you commanded the company that lunged first into the City of South Gotha?”

“Don't mention it.”

Guiche proudly nodded. Everyone praised their classmate who had great military achievements.

“No way, Guiche. Honestly before now we though that you were just a big mouthed rascal, but now we can recognize our mistake without fail!

“Great! Guiche! You are awesome!”

Guiche leaned back listening. Then he crossed his legs, and put up a finger still looking as proud as a peacock.

“Now, I will tell you the story about the brave army fights against the orcs.”

Aaaah, the stir happened.

Guiche looked at Montmorency again. And sighed painfully. The reason is that Montmorency still looks the other way ... why she is acting this way… Guiche became sadder. He then raised he voice higher than needed.
“When wall broke, orcs came from inside, one after another! At that time, I calmly commanded my sub ordinate's from gun corps. First platoon! Load! Aim! Fire!”

When saying ‘Fire’ Guiche rose and lowered his wand.

“Still, the enemy doesn't flinch! Magic was needed! I rose and started casting - Earth Hand!”

He cast the spell where the hand expands from ground and grabs one’s feet.

However, there was no soil in the classroom. Nothing happened. A strange silence stelled.

“Ka-boom! Valkyrie emerged!“

Guiche rejects the cane trying to cover himself up again. Petals of the artificial rose scattered around…and changed into seven Valkyries.

“Towards the upcoming orcs, my brave golems jumped out!”

Valkyries began to dance imitating the fight.

Someone recited the winds spell towards Guiche’s golems.

Valkyries were blown off and fell on the floor.

“Who?!”

With a sarcastic smile on his lips, De Lorraine watched Guiche. Before Tabitha’s fabulous results, he was counted to be the strongest in duels among the boys.

“If your golems were blown off by the wind magic, how were they able to withstand orcs blows?”

“Uuh…”

Guiche dropped in a cold sweat. Feeling on a roll, he has enlarged the story without thinking.”

“Well… A decoy! My golems were a decoy, used to distract the attacking enemies!”

“Hey hey, I heard a while ago, that it was all musketeers doing. Did your magic failed? You are not so great, Guiche!”

“S-subordinate soldier's were under commander's control!”

“ But heven’t you just said that it was all about your magic? Please give my sincere admiration to your company once you meet them. However, were you really a decent lead? Maybe you were leaving most things on your sub-commanders shoulders?”

Bull’s eye, Guiche felt petrified. This way there was a contradiction in Guiche’s story. Well, he needed to keep on talking to buy some time… meanwhile Montmorency stood up and left the classroom.

Guiche ran after her in panic.

“Montmorency!”

Guiche shouted in a corridor paved with stone. Yet, Montmorency didn’t turn around, she just walked away briskly. Feeling an anger emanating from her shoulders, Guiche ran up closer.

“Oi oi, please wait! Are you mad because of what I said? Darling! Listen me out, stop ignoring me!”

Guiche puts a hand on Montmorency's shoulder and made her halt.

“Here, look at it. A medal! Be happy! You are a girlfriend of someone worthy of an award! As I said, here, you...“

“That doesn’t make my opinion of you any better.”

After finally turning around, Montmorency declared.

“W-why?”

“Is the reward all that you care about? You left me without telling, that’s the problem!”

Not expecting such an attack, Guiche flinched. Spoiled by the praises, he could not imagine to be blamed this way.
“D-don’t you know! As an royal army volunteer, I could not write you letters!”

Montmorency, stared at Guiche with cold eyes. Feeling that this anger was different from usual, Guiche become silent.

“Even if it was so! This doesn’t mean you could not contact me! There are some things that are more important than a reward!”

He thought for a while.

“For instance?”

Because Guiche asked seriously, Montmorency’s cheeks turned red.

“Aya! Why you are hitting me!”

“Me. M-E.”

“Y-yes.”

“aren’t you my knight? Haven’t you told me, that if there would be a war you would stay near, protecting me? Remember?”

Ye-yes.”

Guiche stood upright and nodded.

“Since you left with boys, dreadful things happened in the Academy! Meanwhile you were going crazy attacking enemies for medals!”

That’s right… Guiche nodded. Upon returning he heard the story

“Because you were not here, a teacher saved us paying with his life. If only I would have been more skillful in water magic…”

Montmorency closed her eyes, recalling that time. She started curing Colbert who was wounded by the magic arrows, but even though the water magic was used...she reached her willpower’s limit and fainted. 　

Guiche quietly lowered his head.

“I, I will study more. As a member of Montmorency house that negotiated with water spirit for generations… I will ask for help to train more. If I were better at water healing…I might have helped the teacher.”

Since Colbert hadn't any relatives, Kirche took his remains. Since Kirche left home for now, she wasn’t around. It was unclear if she was going to bury the similar ‘fire’ element user in the land of Germania. The tiny girl with short blue hair, disappeared as well.

“Furthermore, even that child lost her important person. So be a little more considerate. Is this really a time for joy? Even you, should not be so happy.

Guiche remembered.

There was a rumor that Louise’s familiar Saito fought alone against Albion’s army and made them retreat from Rosais.

Shaken Louise, many times she met with generals, but even though she made lots of noise, the escaping fleet would not turn back for the familiar.

Moreover,warship commanders just laughed from that rumor. They thought it was not possible for a single person to stop an army. You cannot stop 70000 soldiers all alone.

As for the Albion army's delay, there had to be another reason, it was blamed on their poor army management. They also thought that this familiar boy just simply ran away.

All the people around Louise kept on saying that.

And even if you would assume he confronted an army of 70,000 – there were no way he would be still alive. Sadly, she should but give up…

However, Louise was not consented to such opinion, she kept denying that. Once the fleet returned, the news about Albion’s army surrendering to Galia made raised the confusion to the maximum. They stopped worrying about the rumors of the boy who stopped Albion’s army, thinking it to madman’s palaver.
　
After all, besides Saito there were many people missing or killed.

As a result, after returning to the magical academy Louise became severely depressed and hasn’t talked to anyone. As if her mind was somewhere else, she shut herself in the dormitory room and does not go out.

Saito’s fate was also part of the rumors in the Academy. Anyhow, right now Saito was famous in the academy for two things , for being a ‘legendary familiar’ and the one that ‘should be credited for everything’.

Montmorency who also heard those rumors, was worrying about Louise who shut herself and never left the room.

“Therefore, I want to comfort her at least. I will pay her a sympathy visit for a now.

“Now you're talking. Montmorency, you are very kind.”

“I am not really kind. You know, until now though we were in a war… Even though it was a war, I never really fought in a war until just now…”

“Yes.”

“I am a ‘water‘ in so many different ways. I will fight my way ... I only wish I were stronger.“

Through the window, Montmorency looked up at the sky and muttered.

“I can’t allow this sadness to exist. I cannot cure if I feel sorry for myself.”

<center>* * *</center>

And so the sacred Albion republic's and the Tristain-Germania union's war ended with the ringing bells of advent festival.

Due to Saito's sacrifice all Allied Forces withdrew safely, while Galia’s fleet left the union and entered the war, blowing Rosais command base with Cromwell, off, causing Albion’s army that was stationed there to surrender.

With overwhelming difference in numbers and with the emperor being blown off, Albion’s army has lost their will to fight. Moreover, the Allied Forces army revolts returned to themselves, as if waking up from a long dream and went against Albion’s army again. Because of all this confusion, Albion’s army surrendered without a fight.

Galia’s army settled in Rosais, stopping a war for now to clean up the mess…

Thus a war which lasted for eight months, was ended by an active intervention of Galia’s kingdom.

Two weeks passed since the Albion republic's fall…

On the third week of the New Years Yara’s month - week of Eolo - Allied Forces' were officially disbanded and the temporary officers from the Academy of Magic students returned to the school one after another.

Prideful, returned those who had military achievements, returned and those who didn’t. But they thought in fierce battles too, and accomplished their duty even if there were no fabulous military results.

Because Magic Academy’s students, with a few exceptions, were used as the army’s back-up, there were almost no casualties and no military achievements either.

Due to that, those students that were military successful were heads above others and their popularity skyrocketed.

So Guiche boasted about his military achievements as well…

<center>* * *</center>

Evening…

Driven from Montmorency’s room, Guiche, feeling a little down, strode. Not many people walk here, in Vestri Courtyard.

When you think about it… It was here where I and Saito met and dueled, he thought. At that time, Saito kept on standing up no matter how much damage he received.

Next thing that caught his eye was Saito made bath and a tent next to the artillery tower. When he was driven out by Louise, he set up a tent and kept on living and sleeping here for a while. Guiche also recalled how he and Saito drank all night in there.

That’s the way Saito burned into his memory…

Somehow, his eyes turned moist. Guiche felt said. Because he was sad he made so much noise back at the classroom.

Saito. Except Louise, no one believed…that he fought against 70,000 Albion’s army and stopped it. But for a man who stood up even while being hit by my Valkyrie… this may be not so impossible after all.

Guiche scrubbed below his eyes.

“Tough just a commoner, you were my friend.”

Wiping of his tears, he noticed someone moving inside the tent.

“Saito…?”

However, the one that came out was…

“Belldandy!”

It was a huge mole, Guiche’s familiar.

“Where were you…”

Guiche squatted down and began to pat his beloved familiar.

“After all, you also miss him?”

The huge mole rubbed his nose against Guiche. Somehow, his round eyes looked sad.

“I see, so you were sad….”

Guiche held Belldandy in his embrace for a while… then he slowly stood up.

“Saito, I think you are a hero. Thefore there is a thing I have to do. Belldandy! Make a big pile of soil!”

Belldandy nodded and began to grub up earth with a severe power. In front of the Guiche the mountain of soil rose.

“I am an earth element user. Therefore I’ll send you a salaam with this soil. I’ll make a huge statue, so that you’d be remembered.”

Guiche cast spell upon the pile of soil. Then, the soil turned into the clay. Thrusting out his both hands, Guiche started making a statue.

“Saito was a great guy. So he deserves a great statue, at least five mails tall. Because you could not use magic…I will make this statue with my bare hands as well. That’s respect to Saito. Noble’s way of respect. Be happy!”

<center>* * *</center>

Though Guiche and Montmorency grieved at heart… The one who mourned the most was Louise.

[[Image:ZnT08-025.jpg|thumb]]

In her room, Louise was sitting on the bed, hugging her knees. Dressed in a usual school’s attire, she wore a strange looking hat on her head.

It was sweater she gifted to Saito. It looked more similar to a rather avant-garde art piece. Even though not matter how hard she push she couldn’t get head through the collar, she still felt more comfortable when wearing it.

Next to Louise was placed Saito’s notebook computer, his only personal thing. Because there was no power supply, the screen was completely blank.

Louise stared at the computer’s black screen. She remembered how upon the first day when Saito came, he showed the screen to her.

It was beautiful.

When thinking so, the back of her eyelids became hot again.

Saito… showed some scenery to me. Though I did not understood it, it was still beautiful and that mysterious scenery made me feel somewhat excited.

One by one different thoughts, scenes, actions… were revived in her heart.

Louise looked down at the pendant on her neck. Held back tears started rolling down her cheeks.

Saito… he always defended me. Like this pedant hanging on the neck, he always was near, he became my shield.

When I was almost crushed by Fouquet's golem.

When I was almost be killed by Wardes.

When I faced huge battleship.

When Henrietta, who was cheated by the enemy and forgot herself, cast tornado of water.

And… when I was ordered to hold the enemy back till death…

Saito, with his sword unsheathed, stood in front of me.

Legendary Gandalfr, just as his name suggests, became my shield.

But did I treat Saito kindly?

No, I was always stubborn, selfish, hard to please idiot.

“Idiot.”

Tears were burning.

“I was just caring about myself. Such ungrateful selfish, not cute me should have been left and ignored.”

Louise did not try to wipe away the falling tears, and quietly whispered to herself.

“Even though you said that dying for honor was a nonsense… you did not come after me.”

The blaming words against Saito, were now returning back at her. Her own words became a spear, that scooped the wound in Louise’s heart deeper.

“Though you said you love me… you left me all alone.”

Louise muttered staring at the black screen.

“Without you, I cannot even fall asleep.”

Hugging her knees, Louise continued to sob.

<center>* * *</center>

Capital of Tristain, in the work room of the Tristania‘s royal palace, Henrietta sat on the chair with a discouraged look on her face.

Part of army's revolt in Albion, general De Poitiers' and marquis Handenburg’s ,commander of the Germanian army, deaths, complete army’s break… and a withdrawal request.

When the request came from the union Army Chief of Staff, Wimpffen, every one in the royal palace, including Henrietta and Mazarini, were confused. Was that a fake report by an enemy? They doubted.

To withdraw or continue to fight? It was cardinal Mazarini who brought the conference together.

“This is a Royal Palace and not a battlefield” his words silenced the ministers that did not want to withdraw.

However…The withdrawal became insignificant in the end.

The Galia fleet that appeared suddenly and made Albion army to surrender. After that, not long ago, Galia sent the special envoy to Tristain, who informed them to attend a conference held to decide Albion’s future...

Though Tristain’s royal palace were pleased with Galia’s attitude, there were no peace treaty with Galia.

Today was the day when two weeks passed since the invitation for Henrietta to attend the conference which was scheduled in Rosais.

Henrietta, she took in her hands the letter that has been sent by Galia’s ambassador.

“Halkeginia’s order disturbing Respublicanism was stopped, Galia’s Royal government feels that all Halkeginia’s nations should build up closer relationship with each other from now on…”

And the preamble continued.

However, though words caught her eyes they lost their meaning in her head.

Henrietta’s heart felt like a cave. Deep, cold, dark hole, in which one could fall. Even if you look into it, you still could not see the end - a hollow hole.

Cromwell, whom she hated so much died. Albion’s noble faction was annihilated.

Nevertheless, why there is no satisfaction?

“Why?”

She said to no one in particular.

“The noble faction that killed the Wales-sama is no more. Men who had cheated me are killed…And?”

Did anything change?

Nothing changed at all.

Henrietta buried face in her hands. She could not do anything about the overflow of feelings that sank her like a floodwater.

Though someone knocked against the door…Henrietta was not able to answer. The door opened and when cardinal Mazarini entered, Henrietta remained sitting under the desk with her face buried.

“Are you tired?”

Mazzarini muttered.

As seeing him for the first time, Henrietta looked up slowly and nodded.

“Yes. But it’s all right.”

“Shouldn’t you be happy. First of all, the war ended. Even though the whole army broke, even though we won thanks to the help that we did not anticipated - victory is still a victory. No matter how many times we would thank Galia, it would still not be enough.”

“Is that so.” Henrietta said, staring into space.

Mazarini worried about Henrietta, continued speaking.

“However, we cannot be careless, Your Majesty. We still should be ready for war, despite Galia’s sudden intervention, their motives are still unclear.”

“Is that so.” Henrietta answered lifelessly.

Mazarini placed a bunch of papers next to Henrietta’s elbows.

“…documents?”

“Yes. By all means, these are the documents that Her Majesty should have a look at.”

“Could it be done later? Right now…”

“No, now. You can’t afford not to look them through.”

“I leave everything to your discretion. Cardinal, you know better. I won’t have to worry…”

“Look through.”

Henrietta shook her head.

“I am sorry. Honestly, I am tired.”

“Look through!”

Mazarini repeated words in a stronger tone. Not used to such determination from a thin middle-aged man, Henrietta took one in her hands.

From top to bottom names were written down.

What do these names mean?

“…this?”

Mazarini said in a stony voice.

“It is the names list of the ones that died in action during the war.”

Henrietta became speechless.

“Nobles, commoners, officers, soldier…regardless high or low, all names were listed.

“Oooh…” Covering her face Henrietta said.

“You Majesty, do you know why they died?”

Henrietta shook her head.

“…I don’t know.”

“You don’t know? No, you do know. They died in the name of Your Majesty and homeland.”

Henrietta deeply hung her head.

Mazarini declared in an icy tone.

“To some of our ministers, this was just a ‘war diplomacy’, office soldiers were just the number figures of loss and gain. It may not be a mistake all together, but these figures had families, lives and the loved ones. But they all believed in something.”

Mazarini jabbed his finger into the paper.

“The king is the one that decides to start a war. You can send officers and their men to death, however do not forget them. This list of names you have to honor. This list of names you have to protect.”

Henrietta began to weep.

Crying like a child, she burred her face into Mazarini’s legs.

“How many times will I burn in flames of hell? Tell me. This sinful repenting queen is at your feet, spokesman of god, cardinal. Ooh, I am honest. During this war my heart was only driven by revenge. I was obsessed with it and did not care even if had to sell my soul to the devil to get the revenge. However, even if you sell your soul ...there‘s nothing after. Even no regret. Just a hollow. Deep, endless hollow.”

“…”

“I… I did not notice how foolish I was. I have lost myself in love, and brought magical guards to their deaths, even unleashed a frightening spell at a friend, I did not notice. Even while starting a doubtful war, I did not notice. Though I used important friends as means for my revenge, I did not notice. And only when revenge ended… I noticed. I noticed that nothing changed at all.”

Henrietta muttered, begging for forgiveness.

“Please tell me. What… should I do? If you would cut my throat would me crime disappear?”

Mazarini pushed Henrietta away. She looked up like a frightened child.

“I am not the one to judge, Your Majesty. You are not the one to judge as well, Your Majesty. That’s only god’s, in the name of the founder, majestic prerogative. The burden may be hard, may be heavy but do not try to throw it off. No matter how long the sleepless night continues, do not forget it. Because they died for Your Majesty and for the homeland. It may be just a royal ornament, but the died for this ornament. Death and crime will never disappear. The sadness will not heal. It will quietly sit behind and watch Your Majesty.

Henrietta’s heart turned stone cold, denying any interference as she shocked read through the list of names… and muttered.

“I never was…to be ruler.”

“There are no unexpected kings.”

Then Mazarini deeply bowed and left the room.

Bereaved Henrietta was quiet for a while. She was motionless.

Messengers of the night, two moons started to shine and illuminated the room … with much effort, Henrietta looked up.

Through Henrietta’s window… two moon sisters watched.

Tears dried on her cheeks.

“Well… nothing left. Not even tears come.”

After that, Henrietta called the page and asked to bring a finances minister. Once the finances minister ran over, Henrietta blandly reported.

“This bedroom… No, Royal palace property of Royal family, sell everything from here for money.”

“..Hah?”

“Everything. All right? Leave only small amount of clothes. All furniture, the bed, the desk and the dressing table too…”

Puzzled, finance minister said.

“Bed? B-but where will Your Majesty sleep?”

“Bring a pile of hay. It will do.”

A finances minister became speechless. Queen sleeping on the floor was something unheard.

“Please give the money that you will receive from selling those things, to the families of war victims. Nobles, commoners – does not matter. Distribute it equally.”

“B-but…”

“Treasury is in difficult state? I know.”

Henrietta removed all acquired jewels.

Finances lord eyes were widely opened in sock as he was handed jewels one by one. Upon reaching a wedding finger, Henrietta noticed Ruby of the wind, Wales's keepsake, she closed her eyes for a moment and then removed and handed it to a finances minister.

“Sell this one as well.”

“Really?”

“Yes. This one as well…”

She pointed at the Founder’s portrait, to which she prayed during the war. Hundreds, thousands of years this portrait was watching over the royal families.

“But, however…”

“Now, what the homeland needs are not the prayers to god but gold. You disagree?”

Finances minister violently shook his head.

But before the man left, Henrietta called him to stop.

“I am sorry. Please came back for a moment.”

“Thank goodness! You snapped out of this!”

Henrietta reached from something from the finances minister treasury tray/

It was a crown. In this haste, they both did not noticed it.

“Without it, no one would ever admit someone as foolish as I as a ruler.”

After a finances minister left, grateful that he was not needed anymore, Henrietta began to look through the list of names.

Of course, she could not remember them all.

But, she wanted to engrave firmly in her mind. That life and ideals hid behind these names. She thought about begging for forgiveness, but stopped.

Once she finished reading through the list, the sky started to dawn.

Henrietta took the last piece in her hand.

And held her breath once she saw a name the very end.

An unusual sounding name, that she heard before, was written there.