Chapter 21: A Casual Conversation with My Lady
On a certain summer night, I found myself in the office of Marquis Northmark, Sir Northmark.
Given the nature of my work, I often had reason to be there. The place no longer intimidated me, but a feeling of excitement bubbled within me. I had an inkling that I would be formally appointed as my lady's exclusive maid this evening.
"Sorry to take your time, especially when you must be busy preparing for the journey to the royal capital," Sir Northmark said.
Only a fortnight remained before the departure for the Royal Academy, where noble children aged 12 to 15 from all over the kingdom gathered. As a maid, I wouldn't let the rush of the last moment perturb me. It was my duty to organize everything according to my lady's schedule.
"No, not at all. I'm certainly not as overwhelmed as my lady, who's swamped with the arrangements for the enchanted workout clothes."
Under normal circumstances, my lady, having completed all her tasks, would have been enjoying her leisure time, pondering her forthcoming visit to the royal capital. However, the situation had dramatically shifted since she revealed her customized workout clothes during a magic enhancement training session with Sir Carmine.
My lady was now bustling about, trying to formally adopt these workout clothes for the Marquis's household.
"Indeed, we do need to finalize our plans before heading to the capital. But with the petition she received today, suggesting the strengthening of our faction by accepting those who hadn't yet mastered magic enhancement from other territories, I wonder if she has any breathing room?"
"She tends to get restless once an idea strikes her."
"Well, it's a boon for us. But I understand it's a lot for you all who support her. Please do continue to help her."
"Of course, that's our duty."
Indeed, that is my raison d'être.
"But I imagine she'll be quite surprised when she learns that she has completed an education far beyond the preparatory level for the Academy," Sir Northmark said.
"The situation she finds herself in is precarious. As no crown prince has been nominated for a while, various factions are vying to promote their own prince to solidify their influence on the next generation. And Scarlett, being of suitable rank and age for the third prince, is garnering attention as a potential fiancée. In reality, no such overture has been made."
"If word gets out about my lady's exceptional abilities, all factions will scramble to draw her in. The existence of a capable queen, who can support a prince, could disrupt the current balance of power."
"Exactly. Scarlett is not in a position to remain a clueless child. That's why I've provided her with the best education. From now on, she must protect herself with that knowledge."
My lady is aware of the precariousness of her position. I'm sure she will accept it.
"Maybe she'll resent us for stealing her childhood with adult circumstances."
"My lady isn't so narrow-minded that she wouldn't understand that this is all due to your love and concern for her."
"I see... As for me, I still hold a grudge over the foreign language incident."
When my lady started learning foreign languages, we were ordered to converse in them in daily life to aid her learning. My lady understood that it was a stern measure taken out of concern for her, but I was the only one among those serving her who was proficient in foreign languages. As a result, I bore the brunt of all the discontent.
"You're still going on about that?"
"Yes, I'll never forget those days when my lady didn't smile at me for a whole week."
"I'm sorry it was so hard for you."
I knew Sir Northmark, who adores my lady so much, would understand.
While we were making small talk, Sir Northmark made us some tea and then left the office. The conversation was about to delve into matters that he couldn't be privy to.
"Could you look at this?"
He handed me an official document detailing the results of a magic appraisal.
- Appraisal Target: Window Glass
- Enhancements: Indestructible, Permanence, Auto-cleaning, Reflective, Insulating, Soundproof, Enhanced Transparency, Light Absorption, UV Cut, Dew Condensation Prevention
- Status: Stable
It was impossible for one object to have ten enhancements while remaining stable. The maximum record was eight enhancements, but it was said that the object couldn't maintain stability and had disintegrated. Moreover, the first three were supposed to be impossible in theory and only existed in fairy tales. The latter few were new magic that I had never heard of.
"Was this my lady's doing?"
"Indeed. Aren't you surprised? When the top-ranking appraiser secretly examined it and I heard the results, it took me quite a while to accept it."
"It's what my lady does."
If anyone else had done it, I would've been surprised. But if it was my lady, I could even accept her turning back time or reviving the dead.
"You're far more accepting than I anticipated, but given your reaction, there's no need to reiterate the peculiarities about Scarlett."
"I've been aware of them since she created a 'magic stone' when she was just one year old."
My lady thought it was just a marble until recently.
"That was shocking. It overturned the concept that magic stones are formed only inside magical beasts. Moreover, the stone she created was a Non-Attribute, formed with an exquisite balance of all attributes. There's nothing like it anywhere in the world."
Like humans, magical beasts also have magic attributes, so their magic stones are biased toward a particular attribute. There are Non-Attribute beasts, but their stones, unlike the one my lady created, don't possess any attributes.
If word got out that magic stones could be made by human hands, it would trigger another industrial revolution. I can't imagine such a future being conducive to my lady's happiness, so I won't permit it.
"So, my lady, who was determined to be Non-Attribute, essentially possesses all attributes?"
"Yes, Lady MoyaMoya confirmed it. She said that considering the information we provided and the measurement results, there's no doubt about it. Although there's no precedent for such a being, she said."
"She's truly blessed by the gods."
"Anything about Scarlett, you accept with such refreshing conviction. It's no wonder you didn't flinch when you saw her create a magic stone."
"At that time, I didn't know how rare and significant magic stones were...please forget about that."
"Heh heh, seeing your age-appropriate side makes me feel relieved."
That was the first miracle of my lady we experienced. I didn't understand its significance until later. If I had known, I might have pledged my loyalty to her sooner.
"Sorry, I digressed. I've kept this a secret so far, but Scarlett was once targeted for assassination."
I saw red. Rage surged within me at the fool who had dared to plot my lady's assassination, and shame filled me for not knowing about it despite my oath to protect her.
"Calm down. The assassination attempt is resolved. The executors and the mastermind are no longer in this world. There's no threat to Scarlett's safety from this matter."
"I understand. For now, I'll suppress it."
"I couldn't do anything to
protect my daughter either. The first time I learned of the incident was when the body of the sniper was found. And the one who thwarted the assassination was the window glass described in the appraisal earlier."
I now understood. With such legendary levels of protection, it was impossible for my lady to be harmed.
But that didn't quell my anger.
"Unprecedented multiple enhancements, creation of a magic stone, being determined as Non-Attribute while possessing all attributes... I suspect there are more secrets. If any one of these were known to the public, everyone would want her. It could shake the world."
"Yes."
The repercussions would be far beyond a kingdom's throne or a factional conflict.
"It might be obvious to you, but let me say it explicitly. I want you to always be on Scarlett's side, no matter what. Even if you're forced to choose between the Marquis's household and Scarlett, I want you to side with Scarlett."
"Yes!"
I had assumed this, but I didn't expect Sir Northmark to say it so explicitly. I see, that's why he asked my father to leave.
"With you affirming so readily, I entrust Scarlett to you. I'll assign Bennett as an assistant, so please support Scarlett's life at the Royal Academy."
"Yes!"
"I hereby appoint Fran Solvent, effective today, as the head maid for my daughter Scarlett."
"Thank you! I humbly accept."
"From now on, only Scarlett has the authority to command you. I trust your loyalty and capability. Please continue to support, protect, and be with her for a long time."
"Yes!"
I was pScarlett sure I would be appointed as a maid, but when it finally happened, I felt more joy than I had imagined. Now, in name and reality, I've become my lady's maid.
"Don't feel too pressured. Scarlett has been enhancing not just the windows, but the entire mansion, so it's now more secure than any fortress. If anything happens, we can just hole up here. We'll be able to withstand even if we make enemies of the entire country."
"Considering how my lady has been creating some new magic recently, she might even be able to repel attackers."
"That's a scary thought. I'll have to hear the details when you all come back home."
Sir Northmark might have intended it as a joke, but knowing my lady, who unconsciously creates miracles, it might not be a laughing matter when the time comes.
The growth of the farm crops has been exceptionally good since my lady went for "cleaning". Recently, she has started to apply enhancement magic to others as well. Enhancement magic was supposed to be impossible to apply to others due to attribute differences, but for my lady, who possesses all attributes, it seems not to be an issue.
"By the way, the other day my lady gave me a charm, saying it would be useful in the dangerous royal capital..."
"I might not be able to explain the details as it's not my specialty, but let's ask Lady MoyaMoya to appraise it before we depart."
"Please do."
I wonder what kind of wishes my lady imbued into my charm.
I can't help but look forward to the appraisal results.
Chapter 22: Arrival at the Royal Capital
The Royal Capital arc begins here.
The Royal Capital—!
I repress my urge to shout in excitement as we cross the bridge.
The capital of the Vandel Kingdom, Waals, is surrounded by a large river to the north, a tributary to the southwest, and the sea to the east. In the past, it thrived as a distribution hub within the kingdom, taking advantage of the river. Even now, it continues to serve as a gateway to the sea, connecting the continent.
Though it used to be a region troubled by flooding during the rainy season, it's now free from flood damage thanks to extensive riverbank construction and large-scale magical facilities controlling the water flow.
With natural moats protecting it from monster invasions, it's known as the safest city within the kingdom.
I thought there would still be some harm from aquatic monsters, even with the water moat being effective against land monsters. But the actual Royal Capital I saw was a fortress with towering embankments serving as city walls.
Looking back, the pressure from a flooding river is more severe than sporadic monster attacks. Having lived my previous life quite nonchalantly, only watching natural disasters on the news, I'm now realizing the sheer genius of the people who prepared for these events.
The population of the Royal Capital is about 500,000.
Although it seems to be increasing every year, the city cannot expand due to its structure being protected by the river. As a result, large communal residences similar to apartment complexes have become the main living spaces.
During our journey, many small towns were obscured by city walls, and we often couldn't see the townscapes from afar. But from the farmland that stretches to the north of the Royal Capital and beyond the river, you can confirm the sight of high-rise buildings, and it got me pumped. It's not a cluster of skyscrapers like Shinjuku or the Minato ward, but it reminded me a little of Japan and made my heart flutter.
We ride along the main thoroughfare that runs north-south through the Royal Capital. Fran is with me, while another maid, Bennett, rides in the vehicle ahead, handling the procedures to pass through the checkpoint. There are also several vehicles carrying enough luggage for a noblewoman to live in a dormitory. It seems it's considered unrefined to load a noble's luggage onto something like a truck, so about ten station wagons are lined up.
It feels like a little feudal lord's procession. If I were to be made to kneel at the roadside during the passage, I'd probably say something like "I'm embarrassed."
I personally wouldn't mind moving everything with a moving truck, but those around me wouldn't allow it.
Just before our departure to the Royal Capital, I developed a new magic spell.
A staple of other worlds, the Item Box magic!
By infusing magical energy into the object I want to expand with the image of "expand, expand," only the space inside actually expands. Non-Attribute magic is amazing.
With this, luggage transport becomes easier. When I reported this to Fran just before departure, she told me, with a smile, to absolutely never show it to anyone else.
Her smiling pressure seems to be increasing lately.
She listed potential problems caused by utilizing the Item Box, such as the collapse of existing transport systems, misuse in crimes such as smuggling, and false charges arising from such suspicions. I had no choice but to stay silent.
The magic-enhanced workout clothes I made from whatever was available caused such a fuss.
In my view, magic, which can expand possibilities just by imagining, should be developed carefully, and I realized that now.
However, as long as I'm using it personally, she couldn't stop me, so the vehicle I'm moving in now is a special make with a spacious interior. We brought in a sofa and a bed separately from the installed seats, allowing us to relax comfortably. If you get tired of sitting still, you can even do some light exercise.
It's originally a limousine-like vehicle for dignitaries, so there's a partition, and the rear seats are invisible from the driver's seat without permission. The windows can be adjusted with magic to be transparent or opaque, and the doors are sealed so only we can open them, so there's no worry about the mysterious space being seen.
There's no highway, so it takes five days just to travel.
It's only natural to prepare as comfortable a space as possible, but Fran was dumbfounded when I told her this. Why?
Actually, this is my first time going outside the territory.
Normally, you'd go to other territories for social or business reasons with your parents, greet the nobles who live nearby, and interact with their children, but I didn't have such opportunities due to my father's policy. I had been going out to inspect the territory and greeted the nobles who came to see my father and the ladies who attended the tea parties and parties hosted by my mother, but I was mostly sheltered.
And if I'm like that, Fran, who's always with me, doesn't know the outside either.
"My lady, the sea! That's the sea!"
As a result, Fran is as excited as me.
I don't see her like this often lately.
The Northmark territory does face the sea in some parts, but I've never been there because you have to bypass a mountain inhabited by powerful monsters. We can get fish delivered to the mansion because we can keep it cool with water magic.
By the way, the vehicle window can be adjusted like a one-way mirror, and since I'm just expanding the space inside with magic, there's no problem with seeing the scenery. A comfortable journey is about fully enjoying the scenery, too.
"I wonder if we can swim?"
"I've heard that the east side of Waals is occupied by the port. For swimming, it would have to be either the north or south side of the river."
"Then let's definitely go! ...Is it okay for a noble lady to wear a swimsuit in public?"
"It's not suitable to mingle with the general public, but it's okay in a noble-exclusive resort. Such a place would limit men's entry, so it wouldn't be a problem."
"Then, please look up a place. And let's also go shopping for swimsuits!"
"Understood. The water might be a bit cold, but let's make an opportunity before the summer ends."
The reason we came to the Royal Capital is for the academy, but there's still some time before it opens.
We need time to prepare, but it's okay to go sightseeing and swimming in the sea, right? It seems Fran doesn't oppose it, either.
While we were excited about the sea, our vehicle passed through the checkpoint at the end of the bridge and officially entered the Royal Capital.
Fran, whose eyes were sparkling at the sea, changed as the air around us changed. As we entered the main entrance, a host of shops greeted us, cramped together.
The Northmark territory isn't rural, but the scale of the Royal Capital is different. It can't be helped since the population of the entire territory and that of the Royal Capital are about the same. However, they seem to have crammed as many shops as possible into the limited space, giving it a cluttered impression.
There were places like this in Japan in my previous life, so it doesn't feel strange
, but I think I prefer the orderly Northmark. Developing without ruining the scenery is also one of my father's skills as a lord.
I am interested in the shopping district of the Royal Capital, but it's not a place for a young lady to enter. I decide to go ahead and proceed. There's no way we can make a detour in a feudal lord's procession style anyway.
In Japan, the more central the city, the more skyscrapers there are, but the high-rise buildings in the center of Waals are the royal castle and the magic tower, and their surroundings are encircled by nobles' mansions. The mansions of the nobles are medium-rise buildings of about three to five floors, and although there are gardens, they are overshadowed in terms of height.
The place I'm heading to is there, where I hear the dormitory of the academy is.
However, a loud noise reverberated before we left the shopping district.
Is there trouble as soon as we arrive in the Royal Capital?
Chapter 23: A Traffic Accident
"What just happened?" I ask, the sound of the collision still ringing in my ears.
The noise had come from quite close by, so I quickly pose the question to the driver, even before Fran could react.
"...It was an accident, milady. As we were crossing the intersection, we were hit by a vehicle from the left. Given the volume of the crash, the impact was surprisingly light. Are you all unharmed? Any injuries?"
The driver, trusted by the Marquis household to drive the special vehicle for the young mistress, had managed to keep his composure even in this emergency, and was even concerned about our well-being.
The loud noise had shocked me, but I hadn't expected it to be a traffic accident. When I peek out of the window, I see the other car, its front end completely smashed. Our car, on the other hand, is intact, thanks to its special design meant to protect me and the additional strengthening I had infused it with. Given how close the noise was, it's no wonder it was so loud. It seems our vehicle possesses the extraordinary ability to only sound like it's been in a collision.
Interestingly, this country does not have a culture of traffic signals. It seems absurd to someone with a Japanese sensibility, but since the prevalence of vehicles is low, the development of traffic laws has lagged. There are some basic rules, but in the city, only nobles, the military, wealthy individuals, transporters, and public transportation vehicles tend to be on the roads. It's enough... at least, it's supposed to be.
As a rule, speeding is prohibited. You can only go slightly faster than a walking pace.
In return for not being able to go fast in the city, vehicles have the right of way over pedestrians. I guess it can't be helped, considering most vehicles are occupied by important individuals.
At road intersections, you must always stop, check for safety, and then proceed. If vehicles arrive at the intersection simultaneously, the one with higher social status goes first. I know it sounds funny, but it's serious. Because of this, it's mandatory to display emblems or symbols that indicate your status.
Penalties for violations are harsh. If you break the law, your vehicle can be confiscated, you can be prohibited from purchasing a new one, and hefty fines may be imposed. In serious cases, your property can be confiscated, you could be sentenced to hard labor, and if you're a noble, you could even be stripped of your title. Since your status and magical power are registered at the time of purchase, you can't escape punishment.
Outside the city, it's pScarlett much lawless.
In Northmark, we're making progress in establishing laws, but they're not easily adopted. It's important, so don't treat it like a local rule!
Even though it doesn't look like we were at fault, as the leader of the group, I need to talk with the other party. There's no damage, and I don't feel inconvenienced, but since a car bearing the Marquis's emblem was involved, we have to hold the other party accountable.
Just as I was thinking this, about ten men, all in garish knight-like attire with excessive gold decorations, emerged from the other party's high-end limousine-like car and surrounded our vehicle.
"Come out! You won't get away with hitting Viscount Garbeige's car!" the man who seemed to be the leader of the group bellowed.
I didn't understand what he was saying.
He seemed to be relying on his nobility, but why hadn't he recognized that we were also nobles?
Only nobles or truck drivers from transportation companies would travel in a procession like this, and all our vehicles were displaying the Marquis's emblem.
The emblem of a noble house typically consists of a shield with a design in the center, surrounded by decorative motifs. In addition, marquises and above are allowed to fill their shields with color. Earls and below can only color their decorations. Wealthy people who imitate emblems can't use a shield, they can only use the decoration. The details are clearly defined.
The emblem with a blue shield bearing the image of a holy cup, decorated with wave patterns, represents the Northmark family.
Only nine families possess colored shields - the royal family, the dukes, four marquis families, and three border earl families. There used to be another marquis family, but they seem to have recently lost their status. With only nine colors, the emblems are quite distinguishable.
I had thought that remembering each family's emblem was common knowledge... Perhaps I was mistaken?
The emblem of the Garbeige viscount family is a shield with two round dumplings and a circle pattern. Yep, no mistake there.
"Don't think the police will help you! The impact caused our young lord Aideo to bump his head! The crime of harming a noble is serious!" the heated captain continued to shout.
Considering the state of their smashed car, if the young lord got away with just a bump, that's incredibly lucky. But more importantly, is their driver okay?
"Fran, tell everyone not to leave the car. We'll wait inside until the police arrive," I instructed.
If I were a boy, I might be criticized for being a coward, but I'm a delicate young lady. I will use my position to the fullest. I have no intention of getting involved in a brawl.
I thought about revealing my identity to silence them, and I'm sure Fran would act as my bodyguard, but our emblem is already prominently displayed on our vehicles. I can't imagine this would work.
They seem like the type to resort to violence, so I can't see them being receptive to reason.
"Calm down, Fran. Either they didn't look at our emblem or they don't understand its significance. Either way, we can't reason with someone who resorts to violence."
"But..."
"Instead, let's record everything that happens. This is now a matter between two families, and we need to gather evidence for my father to hold them accountable later."
In response to my instructions, Fran quickly relayed the message. She seems slightly dissatisfied. She can send a message using wind magic, so there's no need to even open the car window. It's quite convenient.
The magic I attempted to replicate with non-attribute magic was smartphone magic, but it's difficult.
"The audacity of these people... I can't stand by and do nothing," Fran said, her dissatisfaction clear.
I'm happy with her sentiment, but I prioritize everyone's safety. We have protections against magic, so there's no damage, but compensation?
"Just stay hidden in your car and tremble... Don't think..."
Their incessant noise was getting on my nerves, but then everything suddenly fell silent. It seems Fran has used magic to block out their noise.
The one-way mirror effect can't be disabled, so we can still see their unsightly actions, but it's unavoidable as we need to notice when the police arrive.
After about ten minutes of futilely kicking the car, a man with a thick and unruly beard came out. His beard was full, but the top of his head was lacking. Judging by his age, he could be the viscount himself.
At first, he yelled at what seemed to be the captain of the knights, but soon turned his glare
towards us.
On Viscount Garbeige's orders, the knights drew their guns. I couldn't hear their voices, but their hostile intentions were clear enough.
"I thought they would at least wait until the police arrived, no matter how reckless they are..."
I couldn't sit still anymore as I saw this unfold... As I was about to get up, a gust of wind blew between the knights. What just happened!?
All I could see was that, but Viscount Garbeige and half of the knights were scattered by some sort of impact. The person who caused this seemed to have used too much force and had gone past the intersection, but now he was walking back. It was a bit of an anticlimax.
The small figure that stood between us and the knights and the vehicle, however, didn't seem unreliable at all. It looked like a reliable ally had arrived.
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Chapter 24: Unprecedented Lady – The Second One
I woke up early and decided to continue the story.
We had a collision with a vehicle that was behaving like a scam artist, and while we were surrounded, a gallant figure appeared and defended us. Ah, the classic plot development I've been waiting for!
The meeting of the heroine and the hero after being rescued – it's a staple of the genre.
Even after overwhelming the enemies with a surprise attack, she maintained her vigilance.
Although she was ready to draw her rapier at any moment, given the situation that she had cut down the viscounts, her primary weapon is probably magic. Even from my perspective, knowing the competence of the Northmark Knights, her level is quite high.
Her plain clothing makes it hard to guess her identity, and since she's not in uniform, it's unlikely she's a military police officer. I initially thought she might be an off-duty knight who happened to pass by, but her appearance is too common. Also, they wouldn't carry weapons while off-duty; the well-worn rapier looks out of place.
She wore a short jacket, a shirt with a border pattern, and leggings that seemed to prioritize ease of movement...
"Huh? ...Is she a girl?"
Though she's slender, her figure definitely has feminine curves. Upon closer inspection, her long silver hair tied in one bundle, her pale skin visible even from behind, her dignified and handsome face, and her small stature contrasting with her bravery, all point to her being a woman.
She's not a hero, she's a heroine. How could I have mistaken her?
"It is unacceptable to cause an accident and then intimidate the other party by surrounding them with a large group! If you resort to violence before the arrival of the police, I will intervene!"
Wow, how cool!
She's like a princess knight, full of a sense of justice! This is a good development too.
"Shut up, girl! Are you also with these insolent people in the car!? Those who oppose a noble face the death penalty, you'd better regret it in your death!!"
Viscount Garbeige was shouting nonsense while toppled over.
Since when did such a law exist? Although it doesn't apply to this case, the maximum penalty for the crime of disrespect is imprisonment. Please confine your fabrication of bad laws to your own territory.
By the way, the crime of disrespect applies only when commoners are rude to the royal family or nobles, or when nobles are rude to the royal family. In the case of nobles, the crime of insulting a superior noble is applied. The punishment is decided by negotiations between the families, so if the power difference is large, you can pursue responsibility as much as you want. Be prepared.
But now that I'm being protected by a girl, should I stay hidden in the car?
That question was quickly swept away.
At the same time as stepping in, she drew her rapier, and in a breath, she closed in on the knights. The acceleration from the step was too fast for the knights to react. In the next moment, three of them fell.
She struck twice each at their dominant hands and feet. They were neutralized in the shortest possible steps.
The knights who saw their comrades fall felt a sense of crisis, but she didn't give them time to regroup. She closed the distance faster than their backward step and another one fell.
Wow, she's strong!
And beautiful too.
Even though I'm good at enhancement magic, I don't think I can move like that. The realm she's reached probably requires a level of training that's not in the realm of being a lady's hobby, optimization of movements through the acquisition of martial arts, and the sharpness of intuition to see the situation in an instant.
It's a skill that has nothing to do with me, who is aiming to be a normal noble daughter, but I admire it.
"...What are you doing, you guys!? Are you still knights of Garbeige!? No matter how strong she is, there's no one who can defend against a gun. Shoot her full of holes!"
Viscount Garbeige was yelling.
Sorry, but you can't aim a gun at an opponent who moves that quickly. This isn't my previous world, it's a world where magic exists.
It seems the knights knew that, as there was no sign of them following the viscount's orders. They had almost lost their will to fight. It seems they've had enough training to understand the overwhelming difference in power, even if they don't know the emblem of the nobility.
No, there was one knight who hadn't lost his will to resist!
He was one of the ones who had been blown away when she appeared, along with the viscount. Maybe he had a bad fall, because only the viscount and he hadn't gotten up.
He hadn't been aware of the situation since he'd been lying down, and was reacting to the viscount's order by activating fire magic. His face was grimly distorted as he glared at the woman. It seemed he had accumulated a lot of hatred from being thrown around in an unsightly manner.
There hadn't been anyone who used anything other than swords and guns until now, so I overlooked the possibility that there might be a practitioner mixed in.
Moreover, because of the viscount's shouting, the woman's alertness was directed at the guns of the knights who were standing, and she hadn't even noticed the practitioner.
"Damn it, die!!"
The fireball was released. Unable to move against the magic from her blind spot, the woman noticed too late.
"I won't let it!"
Just before the magic hit the woman, I pointed a small broom at the fireball.
And that
was it.
The fireball, released at the worst possible timing, disappeared like dew.
"Huh...?"
The dumbfounded knight and the woman who had moved to neutralize him. The judgment of the situation decided the outcome. The knight's consciousness was swept away by a hard hit to the back of his head with the handle of the sword.
"It's over now, isn't it?"
I nodded to Fran, who had seen everything.
There were some dangerous moments, but we were able to avoid any damage on our side.
The magic that extinguished the fireball in the end was mine.
I've enhanced my cleaning magic to the point where I can decompose other people's magic and absorb it into my broom. If the broom disappears, so does the magic.
I'm not nullifying it, so I'm not breaking any laws.
By the way, the broom I used to cast the magic was the first one I received. I received a lot of cleaning tools, and I've carefully kept all of them until I arrived at the royal capital, but the first three are the ones I'm most familiar with and easiest to use, so I named them "Early", "Witch", and "Lux" and always carry them with me. They're small and easy to carry.
Practitioners generally equip a staff to assist with magic. But for me, a broom is easier to visualize. The three brooms all have different uses.
Now that the knights on the viscount's side have lost their will to fight and it seems safe, I also go outside.
"Nice to meet you, Aurelia Caroneia. Thank you for helping us."
When I thanked her as gracefully as possible, she stared at me with wide eyes.
"Did you know me?"
"Of course, your deeds, along with the heroic deeds of your father, known as the Warlord, have reached even Northmark."
Even a shut-in daughter like me collects information.
The hero of the war 15 years ago, Earl Archeios Caroneia.
His intelligence turned the tide of a losing battle, he inspired the soldiers while fighting on the front lines, and his achievements in bringing victory earned him the nickname of Warlord. I heard he's still serving as a general. There's even talk of promoting him to fill the vacant position of marquis.
A knight from our house who went to war and witnessed his actions first hand, I've heard his heroic tales to the point of getting tired.
And his daughter, learning martial arts under his guidance, is recently known for her cooperation in subduing a bandit group and dismantling a crime syndicate. I had also heard that she dances like the wind in battle, so I assumed she used wind magic.
I didn't know anything about her appearance, but there aren't many women as strong as her. It's not a world of shounen manga where strong characters keep popping up.
She's the same age as me. A prodigy lady who is active in the army and the knights at the age of 12. I don't dislike it.
Now, I'd like to deepen my friendship with Aurelia instead of dealing with Viscount Garbeige, but the military police have finally arrived. That means I have to explain the situation.
Neither we nor the viscount's side, the ones who caused the accident, reported it, so it's safe to say that the military police arrived quickly. Perhaps they noticed the commotion that got bigger with Aurelia's intervention.
"I'm Fulcas from the Military Police. We received a report of a clash between nobles and came to check... Can you explain what happened?"
When the captain of the military police confirmed the situation, although confused, he ordered his men to help the injured and disarm the knights, and then asked me, who seemed to be the highest-ranking person present, to explain the situation. He seems to know the nobility, or else he couldn't serve as the captain of the military police in the royal capital.
It's no wonder the police are confused.
Two cars owned by nobles collided, but one side is unscathed. The knights on the viscount's side are armed, half of them are lying on the ground, we don't seem to have resisted, and instead, Lady Aurelia is here.
Quite a chaotic situation, isn't it?
"Thank you for your work. As you can see, we had an accident and were in trouble, so it's helpful. I am Scarlet... Is it necessary to give the name of my house?"
When I introduced myself, all the gazes at the scene focused on the emblem of water and the holy grail.
Aurelia and the captain both shook their heads, saying it wasn't necessary, but one person screamed in a flipped voice.
"Th-The Marquis House!?"
You just noticed? That's too late.
Chapter 25: Negotiations?
"Apologies for the delayed introduction, Viscount Garbeige. The vigor of the knights took me by surprise, causing a delay in my response. I am Scarlett, the child of the Northmark family."
Finally grasping the situation, I bow to Viscount Garbeige who still hasn't made any moves to stand up.
The bothersome part of Vandel Kingdom's social system is that I, as a woman, must pay respect to Viscount Garbeige. In terms of position, even though I am the daughter of a marquis and rank higher, I do not hold any title. Therefore, Viscount Garbeige, being a viscount, ranks higher in terms of status.
Learning that he had instigated incidents with the daughters of the marquis and earl families, the viscount, who seemed to have collapsed out of shock and unable to get up, doesn't seem to understand this. I pay him my deepest respects, causing him to recoil.
By the way, this country, like Japan, primarily uses bowing as a form of greeting. However, the etiquette, posture, and angle of the bow are very strict. For example, the deepest bow is at 60 degrees, slightly deeper than in Japan. Placing your right hand on your chest signifies an apology, and a bow as deep as 90 degrees holds a meaning similar to kneeling. For greetings to superiors, if it's not the first meeting, a 45-degree bow is used, while a 30-degree bow is used for inferiors or family members. However, the royal family always requires the deepest bow. The details are meticulous.
The idea that it would be easy to remember because I'm familiar with it from Japan only lasted at the beginning. I was made to repeat it until my abdominal and back muscles were well-trained. I seriously suspected that my mother's eyes were equipped with angle-measuring magic.
After hearing the sequence of events, Captain-san seemed convinced after confirming some points with Lady Aurelia.
The only question he asked was:
"By the way, there isn't a single scratch on the marquis' car..."
"It's a special specification of our house."
When I smiled and answered, no further inquiries were made. It's not a threat, you know.
The hearing on the viscount's side was conducted with the driver. He had lost consciousness from hitting his body hard, but he was saved by the recovery magic of the military police. I'm glad he's safe.
Driven by the viscount and his son, he exceeded the speed limit, resulting in him entering the intersection without checking. It's not that he's not at fault, but when he started crying and bowing his head, I couldn't say anything.
There's no hearing for the viscount himself. It's inevitable because he doesn't seem trustworthy.
"Thank you for your cooperation. We have not identified any faults on Ms. Northmark's part. We have confirmed that Viscount Garbeige violated the traffic law, so we will be taking his car into custody. A different officer will come at a later date, so we ask for your cooperation in the procedures."
In this case, "procedures" refer to the creation of a contract acknowledging acceptance of the penalty. Based on the report from the military police, government officials decide on the punishment and notify the party. The officials at this time are treated as representatives of the Minister of Justice, so refusal is not an option. You can lodge an objection, but I've never heard of it being accepted in a traffic accident.
The job of the military police is now over.
The intimidation towards me and the fight with Lady Aurelia are problems between the houses, so they don't touch them. They will file a report and respond if there are any inquiries later.
Even against nobles, they have the authority to arrest if it's a crime in progress, but they probably don't want to get involved in disputes between nobles.
"Wait! My son was injured, and I was so worried that I couldn't make a calm judgment. Could you refrain from reporting to your parents?"
Just when I thought it was finally time with Lady Aurelia, Viscount Garbeige started spouting such nonsense.
There's no damage on our side, and it's a problem between houses, so if I don't report it, the problem won't surface. But seriously, are you saying that?
Firstly, the injury to your son is just a bump. If you lose your cool over a bump, isn't that like advertising your shortcomings as a noble, that you're impulsive and quick to lose your temper?
Plus, are you aware that your son, who didn't show up to greet us, has been continuously lowering his evaluation from me and Lady Aurelia? I saw you observing from the window during the commotion when I looked at you, you were hiding under the car window.
"That's impossible, Viscount Garbeige. All the servants accompanying me serve the Marquis' house. They have a duty to report everything to my father. Even if I ordered them, I couldn't stop them, and I don't intend to."
"I feel the same, Lord Garbeige. Besides, as soon as the military police move, it will reach my father, who is the general. Concealment is impossible."
After being rejected by both me and Lady Aurelia, the viscount's face distorts in an unsightly manner. He's on the brink of tears.
"Viscount, it seems that you are taking the situation lightly, but do you understand that we are suspecting the worst possibility, that you attempted to assassinate me?"
"―――What?"
The viscount's face went beyond blue and turned white.
The only ones surprised are you guys.
"You attacked my car at a speed far exceeding the limit, and when you failed, you surrounded us with knights and drew your bayonets. Isn't it a natural suspicion?"
"No, no, that's... not... The decision to draw the guns was made by the captain of the knights. I don't know!"
Oh, really?
"To prepare for such situations, multiple cameras are installed in my car."
"...Eh?"
In case of traffic trouble, a dashcam is a must-have.
It should have captured the moments when you ordered the use of guns, and when you asked us to cover up.
"I have recorded the entire commotion from the moment of the accident, but since I am inexperienced, I will leave everything to my father from here. It seems the viscount also has something to say, so why don't you appeal directly? My father is a person who responds with sincerity to sincerity."
"No, I didn't... intend..."
"All your actions, including your current state, are recorded as well, Viscount. I'm sure my father will see it too, but I'll let him know that you didn't seem like you were plotting an assassination."
In the end, the viscount's face drooped and he stopped moving.
There won't be any legal judgment, and in the end, it will probably be settled with a straightforward apology and a payment of money. Is this also considered a settlement?
A tow truck has come to retrieve the viscount's car, the viscount has stopped responding, I have no intention of dealing with the viscount's son who still hasn't shown himself, can I go home now?