Capital Masoullac wasn't exactly in the center of the Lamamont Kingdom. It's a bit off the beaten track, leaning more north, only three days drive to the beach. The first king of Lamamont chose this place as the capital because of its proximity to the coast. He didn't care at all if the place was an area prone to ambushes. That is why the capital was later named Masoullac*.
*[Masoullac means river of ambush]
During his training as a knight candidate, Elroy settled in Masoullac. So he was already quite familiar with the city.
Several corners of the city are still unchanged. The city is still busy, and even tends to be still crowded. The palace knights walked back and forth to maintain security. Nobles were easy to find there, whether for work or shopping.
"There's a bar that sells good sandwiches here. It's a bit to the side. Later, when we have time, we can stop by there," said Elroy to Ferdinand.
"I dunno, mate. I don't think we'll have time for fun. I mean, just look at this gate!" said Ferdinand in amazement at the gates of the Royal Palace.
That's right. This is the first time Ferdinand has entered the Palace, thought Elroy as he handed his statement to the guard.
The guard gave Elroy a hateful look, then turned disgusted at Ferdinand. Elroy could only laugh sadly inside to get a face like that.
Well, he should get used to it soon after. Elroy knew he was disliked by the knights of the Palace.
"What is it? Why are they staring at us like that?" whispered Ferdinand as they waited for an audience with King Vallotton.
"Because of me. Ha ha ha. Sorry," said Elroy.
"It turns out that this friend of mine is well-known at Masoullac," muttered Ferdinand. "Why am I so worried that I will be dragged into your troubles?"
Damn it, Elroy elbowed Ferdinand. "If they come to bother you because you're my friend, then they don't deserve to be knights of the Palace."
"Is there anyone who deserves to be a knight of the Palace? They're all just spoiled brats depending on their high-profile family name."
Elroy laughed at that, utterly unbothered by Ferdinand's ridicule. "Don't say that, buddy. I'm one of those spoiled kids whose family names are respected too," he said amused.
"You're an exception." Ferdinand waved his hand in the air. "Despite your respected family name, you have no interest in the position. Even though you're the last child of a famous marquess. If you want, you can become a knight of the Palace easily. But you went to the trouble of crawling up from below together with a commoner like me."
"Well, if you ask why, I want a light job with an office close to home. Ha ha ha!"
"So that was your reason all along?!"
Their conversation was stopped when someone invited them into the audience room.
In that room, King Vallotton sat on his throne. Count Lavaud, his secretary, stood beside him, opening a parchment.
"Sir Elroy Gauthier and Sir Ferdinand Fletcher have turned to you as temporary tutors to His Royal Highness Prince Louie," said Count Lavaud.
"Stand up, young man. We're done with the formalities. After this, we will see each other often. What's more, it's Louie that you'll be up against," said King Vallotton.
Before deciding to stand up, Elroy and Ferdinand exchanged glances.
"Thank you for the opportunity given, Your Majesty. We will do our best on behalf of our family," said Elroy representing the two of them.
King Vallotton chuckled. "Yes, of course. If you get into trouble, I'll just report to Marquess Gauthier."
What was that threat just now? thought Elroy panicked to himself.
"Um, Your Majesty the King," said Count Lavaud. He turned to Elroy and Ferdinand. "According to the warrant that the Palace sent out, you will be Prince Louie's temporary tutor starting next month. We will provide other duties and regulations. You will have two days to rethink and come back. We will provide approval documents once you agree. Do you have any questions or requests from your side?"
"No, Your Majesty."
"What about you, Your Majesty?"
"As soon as they agree, they can meet Prince Louie."
"Well. I declare this hearing over." Count Lavaud looked at Elroy and Ferdinand in turn. "After this, you will be escorted to your room. I hope you both enjoy being here."
"Be at ease here. Louie would love to have a tutor as young and fit as you both."
"Thank you. We both beg to leave first."
As soon as they left the audience room, Elroy and Ferdinand exchanged glances once more.
"Believe me, I didn't know that His Majesty the King was like that either," said Elroy before Ferdinand could say anything.
***
Unlike when they were at the border fort, Elroy and Ferdinand got their own rooms. Ferdinand was happy because his room was more luxurious than anywhere else in his house. Elroy just shook his head at his friend's excitement.
They have received various documents related to the job desk and work agreements. Classes for Prince Louie are divided into physical training and knowledge. Ferdinand taught various sword skills and Elroy taught various skills. They will teach in turns.
Their schedules are not hectic, but they are aware of the expectations placed on them. This was a prince they taught, someone who would one day rule this kingdom. Of course, they had to educate Louie as best they could.
"The pay is great, but the pressure is enormous. I will get a return allowance every six months, but as soon as I get home it looks like I will go straight to bed," said Ferdinand slowly while writing. "Well, how do you think my letter sound?"
Elroy chuckled. "You can write anything for your family, Ferdinand. No need to ask me everything," he said while examining the rows of bookshelves in front of him.
They are currently in one of the libraries. Elroy did jump at the chance to find out about Mariette's curse as soon as he had some free time.
"I know you're a nerd, but I really wonder why you came all the way here," said Ferdinand. Elroy automatically stopped reading. "Is there something you're looking for?"
Elroy turned to Ferdinand. "Sometimes I forget that your instincts are too good," he complained. "Yes, there is indeed what I'm looking for. But you don't need to know."
"You're not doing some weird research, are you?"
"What? Not. It's just… it's something important to me."
"Uh-huh. Okay. I'll let you go then–as long as what you're doing doesn't harm you."
"Huh? Why are you talking like that?"
"Man, sometimes not knowing is a gift and finding out will only hurt you."