Chapter 41: At Castle Seolem
At the banquet―this year, it seems it is more of an event―according to the information gathered by Sheila, it's usually a rather orthodox affair where they enjoy dinner and conversations. However, this time it's a bit different; the knights of the kingdom are showcasing their training achievements to the royal family in the courtyard, demonstrating their prowess and valor.
The purpose seems to be to show the excellence and bravery of the kingdom's knights and to celebrate the courage of the fallen soldiers and renew their pledge to protect the kingdom's peace.
When attending such a banquet, it is customary to bring along one's fiancé or spouse. Since noble gatherings like banquets and balls are often used as occasions to find prospective marriage partners, it's essential to know whether the person you approach already has an engagement or not.
Thus, Grace, Ashley, and I head to Castle Seolem.
Grace is not wearing her usual apron dress; she's dressed in an evening gown. It's primarily black with vivid blue embellishments, reminiscent of her original maid uniform, which suits her well.
This dress was made for her to wear if she ever attended banquets or evening parties in her capacity as someone other than a servant while she stays at the Gardner estate.
As for Ashley, she wears a dress with white as the base color and a light purple bolero with lavender tones over it. The frills and ribbons are dyed in the same color. It's an elegant yet cute design with a calm charm that suits Ashley perfectly.
...No, when they stand side by side, it's quite a spectacle.
As for my outfit, as usual, it's a formal dress I was forced into. It's a reasonably well-structured formal attire, so I've given up on the appearance, as long as it looks decent.
I think my appearance is relatively ordinary compared to the two outstanding beauties. It's a delicate balance when standing next to them.
Well... there's no use complaining about that now. I should focus on being their escort and not embarrass myself.
Both of them have flowers with colored decorations in their hair. This signifies that they already have someone chosen, so others shouldn't invite them. It automatically indicates that the man accompanying them is their partner. They must have coordinated and prepared their decorations together.
***
In the dim twilight, the streets of Termwilz were dyed red.
In a horse-drawn carriage that came to pick them up from the royal city of Ceolem, two people were escorted.
"Well then, shall we go? Give me your hand."
"Yes."
"Hehe."
Seated in the carriage, they waved goodbye to Sheila, who had come to see them off.
"I know there might be something behind this, but... um, it makes me happy to have Theo escorting me like this."
"Yes, indeed. Going out like this with Lord Theodore is quite exciting."
Both of them seemed to be enjoying themselves. If they were happy with something like this, then... maybe I should create more opportunities like this. Not just formal evening parties, but going somewhere for fun.
...Yes, that's a good idea. Since Termwilz is close to the sea, maybe I'll take them there next time.
They crossed a drawbridge and the carriage proceeded towards the massive stone structure of the Ceolem Royal Castle.
Although they referred to it as Ceolem Royal Castle, it was a collective term for the buildings inside the castle walls. The notably large central building was the King's Tower, where the royal family lived.
This time, the event was being held in the Guest House adjacent to the Knight's Tower and the training grounds. It wasn't a structure created by the labyrinth, but something the Knight Order had added later for various purposes.
The spacious training grounds were illuminated by magical lights and campfires, casting a brilliant glow all around. Knights and mounted dragons were lined up, ready for some kind of martial arts demonstration, it seemed.
The first floor of the guest house was connected to the dance hall, resembling a cafe terrace with tables neatly arranged. It was evident that the venue was designed with this event in mind.
Already, the dressed-up guests had gathered, but when they presented their invitation, they were guided to the balcony seats on the second floor.
...VIP treatment, huh. Hmm.
I can't quite grasp the intentions of the Knight Order. Are they picking a fight with me or showing respect?
"Oh, Theodore."
A person who appeared with a smile was the Vice Chief of the Adventurer's Guild and Sword Saint, Oswald.
For an event organized by the Knight Order, he was an appropriate choice as an invited guest.
"Hello. It's a lovely evening."
"Yes, indeed. There's a seat available over there. Well, if you're fine sitting next to this old man at the table."
"To watch martial arts with Oswald-sama is... quite intriguing."
Prompted by his suggestion, they took a seat at the neighboring table.
"I'd actually find it more interesting if you were the one demonstrating the martial arts. During the time of the demon, I was occupied with evacuation and protection duties, so I missed the rumored aerial combat and staff handling," he said.
"Unfortunately, today, I'm here as an escort," I replied.
Even without examining his attire, it was evident that he wasn't dressed for aggressive spellcasting or wielding a staff.
As I spread my hands and responded in that manner, Oswald glanced at the hair ornaments of Grace and Ashley, nodded, and seemed to agree with something. Whatever he understood, I decided not to inquire further.
After introducing ourselves to each other, I asked Oswald, "Do you receive an invitation every year?"
"More or less. I attend, but recently, the event has grown smaller, and there are no interesting individuals," he replied.
"I see."
"The current leader of the Knights was quite something, but it seems he's no longer in the position to swing a sword," Oswald said, shrugging, while looking at the training grounds beyond.
"Do you know the young knight named Chester?"
"You mean the one who rides the wyvern. I believe he stands out among the current knights," I replied.
Chester, the Dragon Knight. He is a knight among knights, but specifically, he's known for being a dragon rider.
According to Sheila's investigation, he is excellent in both literary and martial arts, but... both Sheila and I share the same skepticism. Even considering just that one behavior, it doesn't seem to match his reputation. So, I think that behavior must be intentional, but I can't quite fathom the reason behind it.
"Sir Chester, I wish you the best of luck in today's trial."
"Please take care and avoid any injuries."
"Haha, don't worry. I'll be fine. There's a capable healing magician on standby, and my weapons have been blunted. Nothing serious should happen," Chester assured.
As I contemplated, I overheard their conversation. Chester, the man himself, had appeared on the balcony seats, donning ceremonial attire. He was accompanied by some noble sons and daughters, attracting attention from the surroundings. Well, he must be considered a rising star within the Knights. He certainly had the look for it.
With a smile, Chester addressed the young ladies around him, leaving them waiting, and then walked straight towards Oswald.
"Oswald-sama, thank you for coming. I apologize for the slight delay in the schedule. I have come to deliver that notification and apologize personally," Chester said.
"I see. I have high expectations for your performance in today's martial arts," Oswald replied.
"I will strive to meet your expectations," Chester said with determination.
And so, Oswald bowed.
"And Theodore-kun, thank you for coming today."
"Yes, Lord Chester."
"Please enjoy our demonstration."
"I will be honored to witness it."
His attitude was the same as before.
"And... lovely young ladies, nice to meet you. I am Chester."
Chester greeted Grace and Ashley, but Grace gave him a momentary cold look and acknowledged with a nod. Ashley did the same, showing no hint of a friendly smile, and a light bow was all there was to it.
Well... that's to be expected. They know about his behavior in the guild, and they have information from Sheila. It's not worth trusting him just because he act amiable now; the more naturally they behave, the more suspicious they appear.
Even so, it must look like I'm just exchanging greetings because of my position. Or rather, that's actually what it is.
Perhaps because he didn't receive the reaction he expected, Chester's smile froze for a moment.
"Oh dear, this is troublesome. You're embarrassed, aren't you? Well then, I have other greetings to make, so I'll take my leave."
He quickly recovered and left with that.
Unlimited positive thinking, or just putting on a facade? I can't quite tell, but... there's no way that was embarrassment.
"I'm reminded of Byron," said Grace.
Ah... he was skilled at acting like a cat in front of adults, that guy.
In other words, Grace's evaluation of him is rock bottom.
"He's quite an enigmatic person. But more importantly, this tablecloth's embroidery... it's incredibly detailed and amazing."
"Yes, it truly is. I've never seen this technique before."
The two regained their composure and started chatting as if nothing happened.