07. The Reliable Commoner and I (batch publication) (Pixiv Fanbox)

68. Suspicions

“You must think this is some sort of joke!”

Back in the dorms after the sun had already set, we were in our room which was lit by magic torches. My outburst caused the room to shake, and Relaire, who sat atop of my desk, shrunk back in response.

After being released from her cell, Rei came back bearing ridiculous news. First, Rei was no longer a student at the Royal Academy but was instead appointed as a special official that reported directly to King Rousseau. I was also informed that Cardinal Lily and I were to assist her as advisors. This of course, was quite the surprise, but it was still something that I could accept. The fact that Rei, who was no more than a commoner, had received such a promotion was something that I should feel joy for. I had absolutely no reason to object. The problem was that Rei had been tasked with an investigation of fraud and corruption among nobilities, and the list of nobles included my very own father!

“My father!? Taking part in illegal activity!? Absolutely not, he would never do something so foolish!!”

My father was the ideal Bauan noble. He had always served the best interests of the kingdom as its treasurer, and never once did anything to bring shame to the François name.

“Let’s not get overly worked up. At this point it’s still just a suspicion.”

That’s what Rei said, but I could not imagine that King Rousseau would not make any of these claims lightly. I was sure that His Majesty held some amount of confidence.

“That His Majesty would even raise these suspicions makes me doubt his sanity! House François has very strictly managed the kingdom’s treasury for generations now! For him to claim that our service has been dishonest…!”

Ever since I came to hold doubts about the aristocracy during my vacation, I set out to learn more of the corruption that existed among the nobles. In actuality, as I continued my search I did come across illegal activity. But my father was different…! Surely… He was surely different from the rest.

“B-But Claire-sama, if you think about it, this could be our chance.”

Even while clearly afraid of my ongoing outburst, Cardinal Lily spoke up. She just coincidentally happened to come and visit, so she was now listening to Rei’s report with me.

“Our chance? What do you mean by that, Cardinal Lily?”

“L-Lily doesn’t want to believe that her father would do anything dishonest either… That’s why, L-Lily thinks that we should work together to prove their innocence…!”

Cardinal Lily’s words were very optimistic. It was true that if we could use this opportunity to prove their innocence, it would be for the best. However, compared to proving that there was a fault, it was much more difficult to prove that there were no faults. I couldn’t help but worry now that these suspicions were cast on our fathers, they might gradually receive infractions until their eventual collapse.

“W-What kind of allegations… Are our fathers under?”

“Actually, I still haven’t received those details either. His Majesty told me to ask Rodd-sama for more information.”

“The sooner the better, let’s go ask him now.”

I wanted to confirm just what ridiculous accusations had been thrown our way as quickly as possible. However,

“It’s too late to go tonight. I was informed that Claire-sama and Lily-sama would receive official notice about our mission tomorrow, so let’s wait for that before we go.”

“… How vexing.”

Rei stopped us. While I was on the verge of losing myself, Rei remained very calm. Or well, I suppose you could say that Rei was almost always calm.

“In the first place! Just what are you doing getting Cardinal Lily involved in all of this!”

“Eh? No, I mena, if we’re going to be investigating Salas-sama, I thought it would be best if Lily-sama helped―”

“You really don’t understand the severity of the situation do you. We’re investigating the truth behind the most influential people of the kingdom. Don’t you understand just how much danger is involved?”

Lower class nobles were one thing, but when it came to investigating high class nobility like my father and Salas-sama, things were entirely different. Our fathers were some of the kingdom’s most influential people. If, in the unlikeliest of scenarios, our fathers had something that they wanted to hide, they would without a doubt look to erase anyone or anything that tried to pry. The methods they might use to do so… Absolutely did not guarantee the lives of those who pursued the truth.

“L-Lily is capable of using water magic. Lily is sure that she’ll be helpful.”

“It’s far too dangerous! And before that, I am more than enough to protect Rei.”

I myself had a high affinity for fire magic. I would not lose to just anyone who claimed to have pride in their magic.

“B-But, Lily is worried!”

“Your worries are unfounded.”

“B-But there’s no telling what Claire-sama would try to do to Rei-san if Lily were to leave you two on your own!”

“That’s what you were worried about!?”

If you’re going to worry about something like that, shouldn’t it be the other way around!?

“Huh? Wait, Claire-sama, were you going to do something like that?”

“Absolutely not!”

“What, why not!?”

“There are no whats or whys to be had about this!”

“Y-You won’t lay your hands on Rei-san!? That’s just insanity!?”

“Oh, goodness, you’re so much trouble, the both of you!”

Somehow even these ridiculous exchanges felt nostalgic. It was true that there had been a lot going on recently. Sensitive to the relaxed mood that had taken over the room, Relaire too appeared happy.

“I suppose there’s no helping it, I will allow Cardinal Lily to accompany us, but I ask for the utmost caution.”

“O-Of course.”

“That applies to you too, Rei?”

“Okay~”

With that, the day came to an end.

◆◇◆◇◆

After classes the next day, the three of us promptly went to find Rodd-sama.

“Oh! You’ve all come.”

Rodd-sama’s room was, as one may expect, fitting for royalty. It was a large room where Rodd-sama surrounded himself with top quality furnishings of refined taste. All of the decor was brought together with warm colors. I myself was proud of my own room, but even that did not compare. The grandeur was probably far too much for Cardinal Lily, who had always lived a meager lifestyle at the church, but Rei was entirely unaffected. I wasn’t sure if she was just that full of herself, or if there was some other explanation.

“I hate beating around the bush, so straight to the point. Salas and Dor are believed to be committing embezzlement.”

Rodd-sama’s words did not make it sound like our parents were suspects, but rather already convicted. While he was normally rather brash and decisive, this was the one occasion where I would not simply accept his judgment and nod my head.

“With all due respect, Rodd-sama, but if you are going to make such claims, surely you have conclusive evidence to support them?”

Last night, Catherine had warned me to keep calm. I did my best to contain myself as I asked Rodd-sama for proof.

“No, nothing conclusive.”

“T-There isn’t?”

I could see the tension slipping away from Cardinal Lily in response to the anticlimactic statement. It only made sense that she would. Casting suspicions without any conclusive evidence was nothing more than a baseless accusation.

“Well, hold on. We don’t have any conclusive evidence, but we do have plenty of circumstantial evidence.”

Rodd-sama then let us see the records of his investigation so far.

“Both Salas and Dor are quick-witted. They wouldn’t just let themselves get caught so easily. Without directly putting it into words or to document, their subordinates and others around them simply know what must be done.”

Rodd-sama’s documents showed that not insignificant amounts of money were disappearing shortly after coming into contact with either Salas-sama or my father. Within that there were more specific suspects, with the names of some of the nobles involved, but there was nothing that proved a direct connection between these nobles and our fathers.

“Can’t you just start by capturing the individuals named here?”

Even now, I still did not doubt my father’s innocence. I offered that suggestion in hopes to eventually clear my father’s name.

“It’s true that these guys are the ones who are directly doing the dirty work, but even if we lock them all up there’s no point. They’d just be scapegoated allowing the ones truly at fault to go free. Just like how a lizard sheds its tail to escape from dangerous situations.

According to Rodd-sama, they had already locked some of the suspects up, but it never went anywhere.

“So? What’ll it be?”

With an almost taunting glint in his eyes, Rodd-sama asked Rei.

“I said this to His Majesty as well, but we’ll start small, with the nobles Rodd-sama mentioned and work our way up.”

“Oh?”

“Could I ask for a copy of these documents?”

“I thought you might, so I readied copies in advance. Take them.”

When Rodd-sama rang the bell on the table, one of his retainers brought us a stack of papers. Rei took them, and turned for the door.

“Well then Rodd-sama, we’ll be excusing ourselves.”

“Ah, just a moment, Rei Taylor.”

Just as she was about to leave, Rodd-sama, for some reason, called her by her full name. With clear disdain, Rei turned to face him.

“Is there something else you need from me?”

“No, it’s nothing important, but well, I thought it would be best to ask now.”

Rodd-sama uncharacteristically hesitated. Just what was he going to say?

“You know, I, really, feel like I’d rather just not hear this.”

“Come on, don’t say that.”

“Can I go?”

“Once I’m done.”

There was a short pause before Rodd-sama continued,

“Rei Taylor. Do you have any interest in becoming my princess?”

There was no way of mistaking it, he just proposed.

69. A Difference in Values

“Rei Taylor. Do you have any interest in becoming my princess?”

In response to the ridiculous development, both Rei and Lily, and even I momentarily froze from shock. A proposal… And beyond that, from the first Prince, to Rei, a mere commoner? I barely managed to organize my thoughts before asking to confirm Rodd-sama’s intentions.

“Rodd-sama, have you gone mad!?”

And yet, despite my efforts my question sounded more like a scream.

“Y-You mean to say that you’ll welcome a commoner into the royal family!?”

“Yeah, what of it?”

Rodd-sama gave a very flat response to both of our questions. When I checked to see what Rei’s reaction to all this was, she looked uncharacteristically serious, like she was deep in thought. It only made sense. I mean, it was a very sudden proposal, and from royalty. There was no way that she wouldn’t be confused.

After thinking for a while, Rei finally opened her mouth.

“I’d like to ask to confirm, but you aren’t just teasing me, are you?”

“No, I’m serious.”

“Sigh… So? Just what about me do you like?”

“Your personality and… Ability. I had always thought that you were quite impressive.

Rodd-sama appeared happy as he spoke. In contrast, Rei had a complicated expression that I could not parse.

“Uhm, what exactly did I do?”

“You prevented a raid against the academy, healed Sein of that poison, prevented the demise of the Orso family, sent Manaria packing, and resolved Euclid’s ghost ship incident.”

Rodd-sama had a very accurate understanding of Rei’s past accomplishments. When they were listed like this, it became rather clear that Rei’s abilities were extraordinary. As Rodd-sama valued one’s merits and interesting personalities over status, perhaps it made sense that he would choose someone like Rei.

Perhaps it made sense, but Rei was mi―

“No, you misunderstand, most of those are Claire-sama’s…”

“Is that true? Claire?”

Hearing my name called, I snapped back to reality. Being aware of my inner turmoil only brought about further unrest, but I desperately held myself together to answer.

“No, those accomplishments were a result of Rei’s efforts.”

It was true that most of those accomplishments could not have been achieved by Rei alone, but at the same time, none of it would have been possible without her either. While it frustrated and scared me to admit, her accomplishments should receive recognition.

―Even if in doing so, she would be taken away from my side.

“But what really solidified my decision was what happened with Yuu-sama. You were able to find a wonderful solution to a dilemma the palace had been facing for a long time.”

“That wasn’t something that I did alone either, though…”

“There’s no need for humility. I already know you were at the heart of the plan.”

It was just as Rodd-sama said. If Rei hadn’t been here, Yuu-sama would still inevitably be in a situation where she would have to live as the other gender.

“Much more than some boring sheltered lady, I’d say that a girl with a backbone, like you, is fit to be my spouse.”

I tried picturing the two of them standing together. Rodd-sama, who had taken the throne to become king, and Rei, his queen. As strange as it may sound, it wasn’t difficult for me to imagine.

“So, what do you say?”

Though Rodd-sama spoke in a playful way, his countenance betrayed his tone. He was serious.

“What do I say? I mean, naturally, I will politely decline.”

“Wait a minute, Rei!?”

I felt absolutely astonished. The thought hadn’t even come to mind that Rei might decline. While a commoner joining the ranks of royalty was practically unprecedented, from the commoner’s perspective, it should have been the greatest possible honor. I was sure that Rei’s parents, who had resigned themselves to a life of poverty would be overjoyed at the opportunity as well. To think she’d decline!

“You… Do you really understand what you just said!?”

“What? I was proposed to, so I declined―”

“Even though you could become the queen!?”

“Yup. Never wanted to be a queen anyway.”

Rei’s refusal came off as though it was nothing special. She made it sound like she was just refusing to help with someone’s homework and remained aloof. Just what does this girl think she’s saying!?

“This is an honor that most could never obtain even if they wanted to, don’t you understand!?”

“It’s not an honor that I care for.”

“Why not!?”

“Simple, it’s because you’re the one I love, Claire-sama.”

No. Why doesn’t she understand? That’s not the problem at hand here. I understood that her affections were directed toward me. But marriage is different! Marriage exists to form a bond between two families. There should be no place for an individual’s feelings to get in the way of that.

“Pft! Hahaha! That’s right! I knew that’s what you’d say!”

Rodd-sama slammed the desk, laughing from the bottom of his heart.

“Claire. Apparently to Rei, there’s more value in remaining by your side than marrying into royalty.”

Even though he had just been rejected, Rodd-sama seemed to be having fun. My face turned pale blue as I desperately tried to mediate between the two so that this precious opportunity would not be lost.

“I ask that you please overlook her insolence. This girl, she’s just confused at the very sudden turn of events. Once she’s had a moment to calm down, I’m sure she’ll give you a proper response.”

“No, I’m quite calm―”

“Please. You just be quiet for a little.”

While shutting Rei up, I continued to try to smooth things over. Rei simply didn’t understand the magnitude of the situation. This was in an entirely different dimension from the love that commoners normally experienced. If it came out that a mere commoner had made light of a proposal from a prince, the countless nobles who yearned for that chance for their own daughter would certainly not keep quiet about it. They would use that information to target Rei. Even if Rodd-sama had no intent to do so, others would without a doubt claim that Rei had committed lèse-majesté​. While Rodd-sama was very sensible and could hold that in check at a surface level, it’s not as though he could prevent sneak attacks or assassinations. I held no doubts that it was best for Rei to accept Rodd-sama’s proposal and come under his official protection.

“Rodd-sama, I ask that you please not limit these discussions to here and now.”

“Of course. Regardless of how Rei feels, my feelings aren’t going to change.”

“Thank you so much. Alright, we’ll revisit this another day.”

“Sure.”

“We’re going, Rei, Cardinal Lily.”

With that, I left Rodd-sama’s room dragging Rei and Cardinal Lily out with me.

“W-Wait, Claire-sama.”

“…”

Rei seemed to send some sort of glare my way, but I glared right back and silenced her. The next time we spoke was after we had split ways with Cardinal Lily and were on the carriage home.

“Rei… You should be careful not to take your jokes too far.”

I spoke to Rei in a serious tone.

“My jokes? What do you mean?”

“Isn’t it obvious!? Refusing Rodd-sama’s proposal!”

When she continued to make light of the situation even after all that, I found myself unable to hold myself back and spoke harshly.

“No, I wasn’t joking, I mean I can’t just marry someone that I don’t love.”

“Marriage isn’t something that just affects you. Don’t you understand!? Just how happy do you think your parents would be if you were to marry into royalty…”

If Rei were to become part of the royal family, her family would without a doubt receive financial support from the royal treasury under various pretenses. No, even putting the monetary benefits aside it would be a huge honor. For a parent, was there any greater joy than having your daughter marry into royalty?

“But… I’m pretty sure that my parents would support my decision.”

Rei said that seemingly without a care. That’s not what I was talking about. Rei really didn’t understand anything.

“I don’t doubt that. Your parents are both wonderful, but is it really okay that you take advantage of that? Don’t you have any desire to make your father or your mother happy?”

“That’s…”

Rei was being far too individualistic in how she thought of marriage. Had she never considered finding a nice partner to marry to bring her parents joy? In a sense, rejecting a proposal from a royal prince was one of the worst things a child could do to their parents.

“But Claire-sama, the only one who I want to marry is you.”

Rei was serious. Hearing that Rei would choose me over royalty did make my heart flutter, but I did all that I could to maintain my self control.

“Rei, listen carefully.”

I took an even firmer tone than before in hopes of convincing Rei.

“I understand that your affections are directed at me, I really do. I will be honest and tell you that knowing that makes me happy. However, marriage is an entirely different matter.”

“It’s not.”

“No. I do think that people should be free to love who they wish. However, marriage is not something that should be done solely on an individual’s will.”

“Claire-sama…”

“You should accept Rodd-sama’s proposal. It’s not as though marrying him will cut our ties. In fact, as I am a high ranking noble and you would become royalty, we may even share a more intimate―”

“Claire-sama!”

Rei firmly interrupted me, and I unwittingly stopped. This very well could have been the first time… The first time that she had interrupted me like that.

“To me, marriage is just about as personal, no, even more personal than love.”

“Rei…”

“No matter what you say, Claire-sama, I have no intention to marry anyone other than you.”

When she looked me in the eye and said that, for just a moment, I was assaulted by a happy fantasy. A life where Rei and I loved one another and lived together. Every now and then we’d be visited by Catherine and Misha, perhaps Lene could come to visit us too. We could go shopping with Pipi and Loretta, and perhaps Cardinal Lily would occasionally come to make a pass at Rei. It couldn’t be helped so maybe she could be Rei’s mistress… No, just what was I thinking.

There’s no way such a convenient world could be reality. I must not avert my gaze.

I was made aware of just how alien Rei’s values were from my own. Was marriage really such a personal thing to commoners? Even so, I knew that I was correct when considering matters in the long term.

“Rei, please listen. Our kingdom doesn’t even allow same-sex marriage.”

“Then I simply won’t marry, that’s all there is to it.”

“Even if I were to marry someone?”

“… Yes.”

I was the sole daughter of House François. Regardless of how I felt about Rei, there was surely a political marriage with a high ranking noble in my future. I did not consider that fact unreasonable. After all, that’s simply what marriage was. Rei said that she was okay with that. To the point where she’d refuse the opportunity to marry into royalty.

“… Recently… I thought that I was beginning to understand you, even if just a little.”

“Thank you.”

“But―”

I continued,

“I’m not sure that I do anymore.”

Seeing Rei’s face twist in pain at my words… Was very difficult for me too.

70. Sin

“So? Have you made up with Rei-chan~?”

“Well, I suppose.”

On the night we investigated Baron Thompson, after Rei had already returned to her own room, Catherine and I shared our usual bedtime chat. Catherine was already in her bed, but I was still sitting in front of my dresser.

“Rather than saying we’ve made up… It might be more accurate to say we’ve… Shelved it.”

Just before going to investigate Baron Thompson, Rei and I decided to shelve discussions pertaining to either of our marriages.

“I think that’s just fine~ I mean, there are problems that only time can solve. Ah, Claire-chan, candy please~?”

“There you go again, saying something that seems to fit but doesn’t quite… You have to make sure to brush after, okay?”

“I know~”

I retrieved Catherine’s candy pot from her desk and took a candy from it as I always did.

“They’re almost all gone, there’s only three left in the pot.”

“They just taste that good~ It might not look like it, but I treasured eating each and every one of them~”

When I handed her the candy, Catherine happily hurled it straight into her mouth. As she did, I took the opportunity to get into bed.

“Alright, since things between you and Rei-chan seem okay for now~”

“… Are they really, I wonder…”

“Okay for now!”

“Fine, sure, so what were you going to say?”

“How did the all important investigation into corrupt nobles turn out~?”

“… Well, Baron Thompson is guilty.”

At the baron’s residence, Rei checked his ledgers against the documents that we received from Rodd-sama. When she highlighted clear contradictions, the baron himself confessed his guilt. Furthermore, Rei went on to negotiate a plea bargain, which was what brought their connection with Count Yale to light. I had no idea that Rei was so quick-witted, so all of this had been very surprising. Also when she explained it I felt as though I was so close to understanding it, but now that I looked back, I couldn’t say that I really understood what that farce about Mito K*mon was all about either.

“Right right, and then?”

“What do you mean?”

“Claire-chan… We’ve known each other for a long time now, you should know you can’t fool me~””

“…”

“You found more than just that, didn’t you~?”

“… There’s just one piece of bad news.”

In truth I intended to tell her right when we got back. But… With the news being what it was, I was having a difficult time broaching the subject. That said, another reason that it had taken until now was that Catherine hid herself while Rei and the others were still here.

“What is it~?”

“… In the documents that we seized from Baron Thompson… We found some information pertaining to Marquis Achard.”

“… Oh, what did you find~?”

Though she maintained her usual tone, I could tell. The voice I heard coming from the top bunk was very slightly trembling. I hesitated to continue, but she too was of noble descent―she should be aware of the associated responsibilities.

“Marquis Achard and Baron Barlier are both under suspicion of operating a human trafficking ring.”

“…”

The response from the upper bunk was a heavy silence.

What we seized from Baron Thompson was a letter from Baron Barlier. In the letter, Baron Barlier―Pipi’s father, Patrice-sama―instructed Baron Thompson to further reduce the volume of trades. The letter also noted that Christophe-sama was in support of this decision.

Of course, this by itself wouldn’t be enough to bring Clément-sama down. If we weren’t smart about how we went about this, it would likely end with Patrice-sama being the scapegoat and House Achard getting away clean. That said, it was more than enough as circumstantial evidence.

“My father… Do you think he’ll get arrested?”

“Human trafficking is a grave sin thatcannot be pardoned. There’s no way that we can let him get away with it. I’ll make sure to.”

“… I see.”

I could tell that Catherine rolled over to the other side of her bed. With a strong sense of shame, I continued.

“Catherine, did you know about this?”

“Mmn, no, not at all. But I guess my brother did, huh~ I guess I was the only one to be left out~”

“My deepest sympathies.”

“Thanks~”

Just what comfort could those words alone really provide. When I thought about Catherine’s circumstances, it was just all too much.

“I intend to appeal to have your sentence lightened as much as possible.”

“Don’t worry about something like that, it’s fine~”

“There’s no way that it could be fine! You haven’t done anything!”

“… Haven’t done anything… Huh~”

“… Catherine?”

Very suddenly, her tone shifted to be self deprecating. Worried, I got up from my bed to peek into the top bunk. Catherine lay with her back facing me, so I wasn’t able to read her expression.

“No… You weren’t somehow involved in the human trafficking too, were you?”

“Nope, I really wasn’t involved with any of that.”

“In that case―”

“But… In a sense, I’ve… Commit an even graver crime than that.”

“Just what… Could that…?”

When I asked, Catherine rolled back over and faced me. Now that I could finally see her face, I could see she was her usual nonchalant―or rather, that she wasn’t.

“Catherine… Your face…”

“… Tahaha, pretty horrible, isn’t it~?”

“It’s so pale.”

She kept her usual tone, but it was very clear that she was forcing herself. Her face was tinted blue and her eyes kept shifting around, unable to settle. This was Catherine we were talking about, just what could have upset her to this extent―?

“Hey, Claire-chan.”

“What is it?”

“Is there anything that you wish you could go back and redo~?”

“… What are you asking so suddenly?”

I couldn’t quite grasp the intent behind Catherine’s question.

“Don’t worry about it and just answer~”

“… Well, yes. Lots of things.”

“If you had to choose just one~?”

“I’d rather you refrain from asking something you already know the answer to.”

“… Yeah, I thought so.”

The fact that my mother parted before I had the chance to make up with her―that was my most painful regret.

“I too… Have something that I wish I could redo~”

“… And that is?”

“It’s still a secret for now~ I’ll give you a proper answer one day~”

“… Is that so.”

But why… Did she choose to bring this up now? Just what sin did she bear? Just what was it that she wanted to go back and redo?

“… I think the time has come for us to be held accountable… for a variety of things. My father, my brother… and I as well.”

“Catherine…”

“Claire-chan, don’t cut any corners with the investigation. You don’t need to make an appeal on my behalf either. Just make sure that justice is served.”

“… I understand.”

That was how I responded. No, that was the only way that I could have responded. What else could I do when Catherine looked so cornered and distressed. If I had to describe her expression in a word, she looked―pathetic. So much so that it felt as though if I had given a different answer, she could have just crumbled to dust right then and there. Despite the many years we had spent together, despite the fact that she was like a sister to me, until now, I had no idea that she had this side to her.

But… Just now, I told her just one lie. Because… There was no way that I could ever give up on her.

“Thanks~”

And with that, Catherine rolled back over to the other side of her bed. Judging by her breathing, she really had fallen asleep. Just for those last words she had spoken before doing so, it seemed that she was back to her usual self. I too returned to bed.

“…”

Surely everyone has a secret or two that they’d like to hide. That said, whatever it was that Catherine bore was clearly of a different nature and incomprehensibly heavy. That’s what I thought.

“Hey, Catherine.”

“…”

Perhaps now completely asleep, my call to the upper bunk received no response. Regardless, I continued speaking.

“I don’t know what it is that you are carrying… But can’t you share whatever that is with me?”

“…”

All I heard in response was gentle breathing that indicated she was asleep.

“This is something Rei told me. When you share your happiness it gets doubled, when you share your worries it gets halved. Whatever burden you’re carrying, won’t you share it with me?”

“…”

Perhaps to be expected, there was no response. It looks like she really had gone off to dreamland. I too could feel my sleepiness steadily take over.

“Catherine… You and I… just like… real sisters…”

My consciousness began to sink deep. As it made its way to the very bottom, the depths of sleep, these words did not reach it.

“I’ll let Rei be the one to do that. After all, I… Don’t have that right.”

71. Justice and Faith

We were at an office within the palace granted to us for use during our investigation. I looked at the various pieces of information sprawled across the walls and our blackboard while reflecting on recent events. Even as rumors of Mount Sassal’s impending eruption and the truth surrounding Sein-sama’s birth spread like wildfire, our investigation was proceeding well.

―At least until now.

We had exposed more than ten nobles at this point. As we went on, the social standing of each of our targets increased. First to medium ranking nobles, and then even some high ranking nobles. However, the higher their social standing, the better they covered their tracks. Until now, we managed to seize enough evidence to force our way through, but we had yet to find any direct evidence against the two key suspects―Salas-sama and my father.

Amidst all that, suspicions of Marquis Achard―Clement-sama― were reaching a boiling point.

(… That said, this is a huge scandal.)

While patting Relaire on her head, I talked to myself. It had been discovered that more than ten nobles were involved in the human trafficking ring that Clément-sama was operating, and among that was Pipi’s own House Barlier. The investigation on those participating nobles was effectively complete. All that was left was to find decisive evidence that Clément-sama wouldn’t be able to slither out of.

“Claire-sama, what do you think we should do? With how things are now, I think we’d be able to corner him to a certain extent but…”

When Rei, who sat by my side, said that. I shook my head in response.

“‘To some extent’, is not enough. If we can’t arrest him with absolute certainty, it’s only a matter of time until these crimes repeat.”

“B-But… Won’t it be rather difficult to find even more evidence than we have now…?”

What Cardinal Lily said was also true. We had the financial records that Rodd-sama provided, testimonies and letters we obtained from negotiations with the guilty parties, financial statements, and various other miscellaneous evidence. It was very possible that we had already gathered all the information that was available to us. If we hoped for more, we may need to be more resolute in our approach.

“Let’s proceed to House Barlier’s manor.”

“H-House Barlier?”

“Pipi-sama’s family. They own the territory where the trades took place.”

“T-That’s right. S-So does that mean that we’re going to arrest Baron Barlier?”

Cardinal Lily asked that after hearing Rei’s explanation.

“No, we won’t be arresting Baron Patrice.”

“Why not?”

“Baron Patrice is too closely connected to Clément-sama. If we were to arrest him now, Clément-sama would put all the blame on him and simply get away.”

“H-How troublesome.”

Clément-sama was a very careful individual. He had likely prepared plenty of ways to frame one of his cooperators should the need arise.

“In that case, why are we headed to the Barlier manor?”

“We won’t be arresting him, but we can ask him to cooperate with our investigation in secret. We will negotiate a plea bargain as Rei has done before.”

“O-, Oh that makes sense!”

As I just stated, Patrice-sama was a noble who held very close connections to Clément-sama. The fact that the trades had occurred within his territory also meant it was likely he was privy to sensitive information. Using the evidence we had obtained so far, we would offer him a chance to reduce his sentence in exchange for evidence that directly incriminated Clément-sama. If we succeed in our negotiations, we may just be able to secure the evidence we needed to close the case.

“But… Are you sure about this, Claire-sama?”

“Just what wouldn’t I be sure about?”

“House Barlier is Pipi-sama’s―your dear friend’s―household…”

“… Why should that matter?”

“Thanks to the negotiation, the sentence may be reduced… But human trafficking is a grave sin. All considered, it’s almost certain House Barlier will lose their rank and title.”

Put simply, Rei was asking if I would pursue justice even at the cost of losing one of my dearest friends.

“Did you really think I was unaware of that?”

“… I see, so you had already considered the consequences.”

“It is certainly true that I may fall out of Pipi’s graces. However, Pipi too is a Bauan noble. So long as I have not misjudged her character, I believe that she will accept her fate.”

She could of course come to bear a grudge against me. Even so, this was my duty, and one that I believed I must carry out. If I were to back out over something like this, it would be impossible for me to investigate my own father later on.

“… C-Claire-sama, why…?”

“Cardinal Lily?”

“C-Claire-sama why? Why―even when faced with your friend’s potential ruin―are you able to pursue justice?”

At first, I wasn’t quite able to grasp what Cardinal Lily was asking me. After all, from my perspective, my choice here was but an obvious one.

“I believe what Lily-sama is trying to say is… With your level of influence, if you wanted to, you could show lenience to whoever you’d like, so…”

“If I were to do something like that, then I would be no different from the corrupt nobles that we’ve been convicting. As a person that upholds justice, I have a duty to practice that justice myself. Yes, regardless of who the suspect is and my relationship with them.”

“… E-Even should that suspect be… Your own father…?”

“…Yes, that’s right.”

After a moment’s hesitation, I responded to Cardinal Lily’s question.

Based on our findings throughout our investigation so far, Salas-sama and my father were unmistakably guilty of something. Perhaps Cardinal Lily felt hesitant about whether or not exposing her own father’s wrongdoings should be considered justice.

“Cardinal Lily, if it’s too difficult to bear, we understand if you choose to remove yourself from the investigation.”

“…”

“You’ve already contributed more than enough. No one would blame you if you were to leave the rest to Rei and I.”

“…”

Cardinal Lily’s expression made her hesitation clear. For a moment I thought that she may actually withdraw from the investigation. However,

“… L-Lily thinks… That she wants to see things through with the both of you after all.”

After vigorously shaking her head as though to shake off her own doubts, Cardinal Lily spoke with determination.

“Are you sure? You yourself are not nobility. You don’t hold the same obligations―”

“L-Lily has decided to live by her faith.”

Before I could finish, Lily respectfully interjected.

“L-Lily thinks that faith is something that should represent justice and morality. Just like nobles need to hold themselves to high standards, believers must also hold themselves to a standard that exemplifies their faith. That’s what Lily thinks.”

Cardinal Lily asserted that to an extent, nobles and the believers of the Great Spirit were the same.

“A-And, even if Lily is not, father is a Bauan Noble. S-So father has an obligation to be just. If Lily’s father is committing a sin, then Lily herself should be the one to correct him, isn’t that right?”

“Cardinal Lily…”

Even with her sadness clear, Cardinal Lily declared her resolve. As she did, Relaire rubbed against her palm as though to comfort her. When Cardinal Lily noticed that, her expression softened before she continued to speak.

“S-Sins must be judged. T-The Great Spirit sees all, so Lily thinks that this chance to investigate father’s crimes herself must be a trial entrusted to her by the Great Spirit.”

Her expression no longer held the hesitation I saw moments ago. It was clear to me that Cardinal Lily did not possess a strong will. However, at her core she was surprisingly earnest and pure of heart. Even though she was one of my rivals who also held feelings for Rei, I felt a certain rapport between us over the way she conducted herself.

“Very well. In that case, let’s make sure to see this through together.”

“Y-Yes!”

“Rei, get all of our evidence together. After that, we’ll be on our way to House Barlier.”

I would be lying if I said that this wasn’t difficult for me. If it could be avoided, then I would rather not do this myself. However, so long as I, Claire François, was a noble, there was no turning back.

(Pipi, I won’t ask that you forgive me. But even so, I can’t allow myself to live any other way.)

To be a noble that embodies one’s ideals―mulling over my mother’s teachings, I was only just coming to understand how painful it could be to live by those words.

72. Father and Daughter

“Is there anything you have to say for yourself, Baron Patrice?”

“…”

Rei, Cardinal Lily and I had arrived at Baron Patrice’s residence. We were in the manor’s guest room, and I was confronting Baron Patrice. After showing him the relevant evidence we brought with us, he cast his gaze downward and maintained silence.

“Patrice-sama, your silence only serves as affirmation. Why not just accept that and confess?”

“W-We are prepared to help reduce your sentence. P-Please, won’t you admit your wrongdoing and assist us in our investigation of Clément-sama?”

Both Rei and Lily helped to pile on the pressure as well. A phrase used in these situations was the carrot and the stick, and those two were doing precisely that. Most nobles would concede here. However, Baron Patrice maintained his silence.

“Baron Patrice, it is often said that silence is golden… But that doesn’t apply to this situation. You understand that yourself, don’t you?”

“…”

“It was your territory where the trades took place. At this rate, you’ll have no choice but to bear all of the guilt.”

“A-Are you really okay with that? Being the only one to bear all of the guilt? If you don’t accept our terms, it won’t just be you, but your wife and Pipi-sama will suffer as―”

“You won’t hear anything from me.”

Interrupting Cardinal Lily’s words, Baron Patrice’s tone remained flat.

“Baron…”

“I admit my wrongdoings. This scheme was mine and mine alone. I’ll accept any punishment.”

His gaze remained downcast, meaning that we were unable to see his expression. However, his voice was strained, as though he was just barely able to wring those words out, he said he was ready to accept any verdict.

“So you’re okay with it, even if it means that your wife and Pipi will be dragged into your mess too?”

“I do regret that they will be caught up in this. I’m sure that I’ll be executed, and House Barlier will lose everything too…”

“Yes, very likely so.”

“I’m sure they will go through a lot of hardship after that, but… That's fine.”

Baron Patrice’s voice was shaking. It was well known that he was a timid man. After hearing that the lineage that he inherited, and that he himself would face execution, there was no way that he could remain unaffected. Even so, as the head of his household, as a baron, he did not break confidentiality.

As I considered my options for what action to take from here, the door to the room suddenly opened.

“Father!”

On the other side of the door that had been violently swung open, stood Pipi. It appeared that she had been eavesdropping, because she looked absolutely livid. The room was meant to be soundproof, so I could only wonder how she had managed it. No, at this point that no longer mattered.

After entering the room, with an apparent determination, she approached her father, and, even as her shoulders shook, she spoke.

“Father, why won’t you say anything!? Isn’t it fine if you just tell them! You only did what Marquis Achard instructed you to!”

“Silence, Pipi.”

Without even looking at Pipi who had lashed out at him, his gaze remained downcast.

“Isn’t there something strange about this!? Father, why should you have to bear everything all on your own!? They’re saying that if you tell them the truth, they’ll reduce your sentence! So just say―”

“Pipi!”

“…!”

With a firm tone, the Baron interrupted Pipi’s fervor.

“There is nothing that I can say. I alone will take responsibility. That will be fine.”

“Father… Why…!”

“Claire-sama, thank you for being such a good friend to Pipi until now. I deeply regret that things had to turn out this way.”

“Baron Patrice… Are you really okay with this…?”

“Yes.”

For the first time, the Baron raised his head. His expression was that of a man with firm resolve.

“Father, you idiot… You’re so…!”

Pipi broke down into tears. The sight was difficult for me to bear, but this was my duty. It appeared that the Baron’s resolve was firm. For now, I would have to give up on the idea of getting additional evidence and prioritize arresting Baron Patrice.

At that exact moment―

“Pipi-sama, please don’t be so harsh on Baron Patrice. After all, he’s chosen silence in order to protect you and your mother.”

A gentle voice echoed through the meeting room, entering the conversation. Turning my gaze back toward the door, I was surprised by the person who stood there.

“Christophe-sama…”

“Claire-sama, I ask that you withhold the Baron’s arrest and allow me to explain his circumstances.”

Christophe-sama was also restraining one of the manor’s servants. After handing that servant over to Rei, who seemed to have clued in to what was going on, he calmly approached Pipi before lifting her off the ground and setting her next to her father.

“Christophe-sama, what is going on? What do you mean by my father’s circumstances? That it’s all to protect my mother and I?”

“Exactly as it sounds. My father―Marquis Clément―threatened the Baron, saying that his wife and daughter would be in danger if he were to disobey.”

“―!?”

Pipi’s eyes opened wide with astonishment before she turned to face her father. The Baron once again faced downward as his body began to shake.

“Didn’t you realize that something was off? That the Baron, well known to be a coward, would commit such a grave crime?”

“I certainly did find that to be strange. No matter how I thought about it, the risks always outweighed the returns.”

After Pipi and I had become friends, I met Baron Patrice as well. That meant that I had known both of them for a long time, and knew the Baron’s personality well. It never made sense to me that he’d take part in something like this of his own volition.

“Everything is part of my father’s plan. While forcing all of the risks onto Baron Patrice, he would be the one to rake in the profits―though he may be my father, I must say that he is absolutely vile.”

While Christophe-sama maintained a calm expression and tone, his words were the polar opposite.

“That servant there actually works for my father. In the case that Baron Patrice should betray my father in some way, the servant was ordered to kill the Baron’s wife and Pipi.”

“―No…!”

“It’s the truth. That’s why Patrice-sama was forced to maintain silence.”

Such a despicable method, one very fitting for someone like Clément-sama.

“Pipi-sama, your father is actually a very upstanding individual. Even as his family was taken hostage, even as he was forced to lend his hand to human trafficking, he did all that he could to reduce the number of victims. Baron Patrice even worked with me to secretly release some of the people who had been captured.”

“My father did…”

“Yes. And that’s not all. The Baron made every effort he could to put an end to my father’s evils. Remember the article covering human trafficking that surfaced? That too was the Baron’s doing. Isn’t that right?”

“…”

“I swear that Baron Patrice is not a bad man. Please be proud of your father.”

Hearing Christophe-sama’s words, Pipi looked up at Baron Patrice. In response to her silent appeal, the Baron said―

“Pipi… I’m so sorry I didn’t say anything.”

“Uu… Urk… Waaah…!”

Perhaps because she learned of her father’s innocence, or from a sense of relief, Pipi clung to Baron Patrice as she cried.

“But, Christophe-sama, are you really okay with this? You’re basically just confessing one crime after the next.”

“It’s fine. It’s time that my father pays his dues. In fact, I wish that this had happened sooner so it wouldn’t have had to come to this.”

“Your cooperation is appreciated, Christophe-sama.”

“No, Claire-sama, in fact I’ve done nothing but cause you trouble… Baron Patrice, go and retrieve that…”

“Of course.”

Urged by Christophe-sama the Baron gently freed himself from Pipi’s grasp before leaving the room. When he returned, he brought a thick stack of papers with him.

“This is proof that the House of the Marquis Achard participated in the human trafficking, as well as the details of all the trades.”

“―!”

“If you have all this, surely not even my father will be able to talk himself out of this one.”

“My faith that a day like this might come has finally paid off. Claire-sama, I entrust all of this to you.”

“Yes, I will make sure to meet your expectations and exact justice.”

The documents we received from Baron Patrice detailed the human trafficking operations in their entirety.

“My father really is a poor judge of character. To think, of all people, that he’d try to frame Baron Patrice.”

“I’m aware that I’m a bit of a coward, so I make sure to be ready if I’m presented with the chance.”

“A real coward wouldn’t keep prepared with fangs this sharp.”

“That’s one thing, but this is another. That’s all there is to it.”

That line was something of a catchphrase that I often heard Pipi say.

“Thank you, Baron Patrice, Christophe-sama. With this, I’ll make sure to corner Clément-sama. Rei, Cardinal Lily, At last, it’s time for us to declare our checkmate.”

“Yes, let’s do our best, Claire-sama!”

“Y-Yes!”

73. The night before the confrontation

“And so, our plan is to arrest Clément-sama tomorrow during the music festival.”

“… I see~ It's finally time my father pays his dues huh~”

It was the day before the music festival that was being held in our kingdom. Catherine and I were discussing it for what could be the last time.

It appeared that Clément-sama was already aware we visited the Barlier residence and spoke to Baron Barlier, so he had gone into hiding. He was likely making every effort to destroy any evidence that he could and get away clean, but where he was doing that was something that not even his own son, Christophe-sama knew.

However, Clément-sama was responsible for organizing the music festival. There was no doubt that he would have to make an appearance tomorrow. Our plan was to prepare ourselves for that moment, and indict him then and there.

“Please make sure to be careful. I think you know, but my father is really stubborn and doesn’t know when to give up~”

“I know, I will.”

“Good, then you’ll be fine~”

Catherine smiled at me, seemingly calm. That just didn’t sit well with me. If I were to apprehend Clément-sama tomorrow, that would spell the end for House Achard. This inevitably meant that Catherine would be without a home and left to fend for herself.

―Somehow, even knowing all that, she smiled.

“Catherine, you don’t need to force yourself, okay?”

“What am I forcing~?”

“My resolve won’t waver, no matter what face you show me. That’s why, I want you to know you don’t have to force that smile.”

“Tahaha… You got me~ I guess I can’t get it past you…”

Even as she said that, her expression remained the same.

“Catherine, what do you think of taking on the François name?”

“Claire-chan, what are you saying~? You know that’s not possible~”

Catherine laughed it off as though it were a joke, however, I was completely serious.

“Adoption is a possibility. As a daughter of House Achard, your social standing should be more than enough, don’t you think so?”

“There’s no way Dor-sama would allow something like that~ It’s well known that he shows no mercy to those that stand against him~”

That was true, father never showed mercy to someone he deemed an enemy. This was one of the reasons that my father was feared. However, that wasn’t enough for me to give up. I couldn’t allow myself to give up.

“I’ll convince him.”

“How~?”

“However, I’ll do whatever it takes.”

“You can't, Claire-chan. I mean, if rumors spread that he showed mercy to the daughter of his political enemy and criminal, the François name would suffer…”

“Or, it’s possible he’ll be seen as magnanimous―”

“Claire-chan.”

In a fervor, I tried to pile my arguments. Just as I was about to say more, Catherine gently, but also flatly, interrupted me.

“Don’t think about anything unnecessary. You must make sure that you put my father in checkmate tomorrow, that’s all you should be thinking about, okay?”

“… You’re right.”

Even as I said that, I still hadn’t given up, not even a little. Wasn’t there something that I could do to save Catherine? Even if she could no longer be a noble, perhaps she could live as a commoner, or as a nun. My mind raced, searching for possibilities.

“Hey, Claire-chan.”

“What is it?”

“How long has it been since we met now~?”

“It’s been ten years.”

“That so~ That sounds like such a long time, but, you know, it didn’t feel that way…”

I’d rather she not make it sound like our friendship was already a thing of the past.

“And we’ll have a lot more time together from now on too. There’s no way I could possibly allow someone as troublesome as you to go off on her own.”

“You’re the one saying that? Claire-chan~ I think you have quite a troublesome personality yourself~?”

“You’ve gone and said it now!”

“Hyaah! I give, I give, Claire-chan!”

“Geez…”

After our playful bout, a sudden silence came over the room. Catherine and I were close so it’s not as though I felt uncomfortable, but this time, somehow, I felt that it would be bad to let this silence linger. Just as I rushed myself to find something to say,

“Claire-chan, could you pass me my candy?”

Catherine was the one to break the silence.

“This late at night, again? I’m surprised you don’t get cavities.”

“Ehehe~””

“Candy, right? Just a moment then.”

“Claire-chan, I’ll give you one too~”

“I don’t want any.”

“Come on, please. Enjoy it with me. It could be the last time you know~?”

“… Catherine…”

I wanted nothing more than to refute her, but I forced myself to endure. Taking two candies from the pot that sat on her desk, I handed one to Catherine and tossed the other into my mouth. The distinct flavor of licorice filled my mouth.

“There’s just one left now.”

“Yeah~”

“If you’re a good girl and behave tomorrow, I’ll buy you a new pot of candy after.”

“And if I’m a bad girl~?”

“I’ll eat the last one myself.”

“That would be terrible~ I’ll make sure to behave~”

“That would be for the best.”

I couldn’t say that I liked the flavor, but the banter between the two of us as I continued to eat the candy felt comfortable.

At that time, I heard a knock.

“It’s me.”

“Emma? Is something the matter? Why are you here so late at night?”

“Ah, I called her here. To prepare for tomorrow~”

“Tomorrow? Just what do y―”

“Emma, come on in~”

“Pardon my intrusion.”

Emma was still in uniform as she entered the room.

“Claire-chan, you don’t have to worry about me, but please, please, take care of Emma for me, ‘kay~?”

“You’re still going on ab―”

“Please.”

Catherine’s expression shifted from her normal, relaxed expression, to a serious one. I always found it difficult to refuse her requests. It appeared that she, too, was well aware of that.

“Sigh… Alright, I understand. I’ll make sure to find her a new posi―”

“I will politely refuse, my ladies.”

Interrupting me as I sighed and was about to accept, Emma sternly objected to Catherine's request.

“Emma…?”

“The only one in this world that I serve is you, my lady, Catherine, you and no other.”

With her usual earnest and serious expression, Emma declared her loyalty to Catherine.

“Emma… That makes me really happy, but after tomorrow I won’t be able to employ you any longer~”

“I don’t mind. So long as I can be of service to my lady, I do not need any pay.”

“You know there’s no way that’s possible, don’t you~? Hey, Emma, can’t you understand?”

“I refuse.”

Catherine, troubled that Emma would not compromise at all, turned to me for help.

“Emma, why are you so fixated on serving Catherine?”

“If my lady had not taken me in, I would have died a dog’s death, long, long ago. My life is hers.”

According to Emma, she had once lived in the slums. While she had held rank and status in another country, she lost everything due to political strife. Fleeing, she lived, but eventually found herself in our kingdom where she was caught for theft. It appeared that Catherine found, and saved her, as people were assaulting her. After that, Emma became Catherine’s personal maid. My first impression of her was that she was simply following Clément-sama’s every order, but it appeared that she truly adored Catherine from the bottom of her heart.

“Hehe… How troublesome, hm? Catherine?”

“Claire-chan, stop laughing and help me convince her~!”

“There is no convincing me.”

“Come on, Emmaー”

I just couldn’t stop laughing at Catherine who was at a complete loss for what to do.

“See Catherine? Just give up and start thinking about how you plan to live on after tomorrow… No, in fact, please let me think about that with you.”

“Claire-chan…”

“You have a friend, and a servant that will serve by your side. Don’t betray our trust now, alright?”

“… Sigh… Everyone’s just so stubborn.”

Catherine averted her gaze up as though in surrender, but even then, she somehow seemed happy. There were a lot of problems we still needed to address, but I just had a hunch that everything would go well.

―Without realizing… That it was all but an illusion.

74. The Music Festival

The Bauan Music Festival was an international music event hosted by the King himself. With King Rousseau at their fore, many members of the royal family were here at the venue. The musicians that were set to perform were not only from Bauer, but hailed from our neighbor, Appalachia, as well as the Rolo Empire to our west. As this concert was well renowned, it held a huge influence in the music industry. To musicians, being invited to perform was not only one of the greatest honors, but a very important opportunity to secure their future success.

“Pipi, Loretta, first, I must apologize that I must ruin this wonderful opportunity, that you both worked so hard to earn.”

Facing the two who were already in their stage outfits, I bowed my head. Pipi and Loretta both panicked to shake their heads in response.

“Please, lift your head, Claire-sama!”

“That’s right! It may be true that this year’s music festival will be a mess, but we’ll still have more chances in the future.”

When I raised my head, they both showed the confidence that they would earn the right to be here again through their own merits. They were no longer the unreliable duo they were when I had first met them.

“Besides, it’s all Clément-sama’s fault that it came to this, isn’t it!”

“Yes, that’s right! This isn’t your fault, Claire-sama.”

“Thank you, you two. I appreciate your cooperation.”

It was thought that Clément-sama would likely only make his appearance at the end of the festival, during its award ceremony. King Rousseau would also be in attendance, so security would be tight and people would be checked before being allowed in. Of course, it should go without saying that only a limited number of people would be allowed anywhere near the stage, so it was vital that we had Pipi and Loretta’s cooperation.

“But first, you two should focus on your performance.”

“Yes!”

“I’ll make sure to enjoy it!”

　◆◇◆◇◆

And so, the music festival began. The royal concert hall, the venue for the event, was packed full with guests. They were primarily nobility of various nationalities, and they were all entirely unaware of the chaos that was about to unfold. They were simply enraptured by the exquisite performances offered by the musicians.

“Claire-sama, it’s almost Loretta and Pipi’s turn.”

“I know.”

“I-It’d be nice if the two are just able to focus on their performance…”

“I’m sure they’ll do fine.”

In response to Rei’s statement after reviewing the event program, Cardinal Lily seemed to be worried. I offered reassurance while diligently observing the concert hall.

(… There are too many guards on security. And, most of them are likely House Achard’s private hires. Clément-sama, just what are you thinking…?)

As that ominous thought crossed my mind, Pipi and Loretta finally made their entrance. Now, at this music festival, the two were about to realize the dream that they’ve long yearned for.

― You know, I… It’s always been my dream to perform with her at a concert, her piano, my violin.

That very Pipi now held her violin, smiling at Loretta with the same smile she had that day. Loretta sat in front of the piano, waiting for Pipi’s sign.

And then, their performance began.

Loretta’s melody, once described to be as vivid and colorful as a rainbow, was accompanied by Pipi’s own. Pipi’s technique was transcendental, so accurate that it was almost stoic. What made it so special was that while their styles should have been complete opposites, contrasting and conflicting, they were able to intertwine, melt into one another creating something entirely new.

(Pipi, Loretta, this really is a wonderful performance.)

The number of people in the audience who had reached for their handkerchiefs was by no means small. That’s just how much the performance had touched the hearts of the listeners.

Their performance had likely lasted about ten minutes. That was about the standard for a concert piece composed for the violin and piano. However, I’m sure all who were here today thought, “More, more―I’d like to keep listening, forever.” When the very last note disappeared into the void, the entire venue erupted into applause.

“Bravo!”

“May these new prodigies be blessed!”

“An absolutely wonderful performance!”

The audience sent their lavish praise to the two on stage. My applause, too, was so intense that my hands began to hurt.

“I’m no expert at music, but even I can understand that Pipi-sama and Loretta-sama are both amazing.”

“L-Lily too.”

“Of course! After all―”

With a great sense of pride, I continued,

“After all, those two are my, Claire François’, very own dearest friends.”

　◆◇◆◇◆

The event continued, and finally, it had come time for the award ceremony. Every musician who had performed for the event had assembled together on the stage, and the audience once again gave them applause. Sein-sama, who had been accompanied by King Rousseau, could also be seen sitting in the VIP gallery.

“And now, a word from the primary organizer of this music festival, Clément Achard-sama.”

With those words from the event’s host, the whole venue settled back to silence. Rei, Lily and I all exchanged glances, and the two nodded at me. We very cautiously focused our attention to the stage.

A spotlight then centered on an elderly man at the side of the stage. The man walked with his cane, making his way toward the stage platform. It was Clément-sama. However, we still couldn’t let our guard down. For all we knew, it could have been a body double that simply looked like him.

“With utmost regard for His Majesty, it is my greatest joy to once again present such a fine concert in your presence. Furthermore, I wish to extend the highest praise to the ladies and gentlemen who performed today. Here, at the Bauer Kingdom’s prestigious music festival―

The sonorous voice, reading the address, was also certainly Clément-sama’s. Surely, this was sufficient to confirm that this was, without a doubt, Marquis Achard.

That concludes my speech as the organizer of this event. Thank you for listening.”

“I object!”

“!?”

Suddenly, a sharp voice of criticism could be heard from the same stage where Clément-sama stood.

“There is no way this criminal, who spurred my father to commit acts of evil, and further tried to place all the blame on him, should have the right to offer a speech for this honorable music festival!”

The voice came from Pipi. With a loud voice, Pipi spoke so that Clément-sama’s misdeeds would be heard through the entire venue.

“I wondered who might raise their voice at such a time like this, but it was Barlier’s daughter… How foolish. Just what is with this nonsense.”

“What she’s saying is not nonsense!”

Before he had the chance to talk his way out of the situation, I stood from among the audience and raised my voice. When Clément-sama saw me, he very openly clicked his tongue and gave a fierce glare. However, I was no longer the same Claire François that was once stricken with a sense of powerlessness that day at the Achard manor. Today, I had reliable friends, people who truly understood me, and Rei by my side.

“Hmph, the daughter of House François too? Bauan nobility has truly never fallen lower. You take your accusations too far.”

“Can you still say that after taking a look at this?”

I created a light using my fire magic, and, with Rei’s help, projected the summary of our findings regarding Clément-sama’s human trafficking operations on the stage curtains.

“Clément, what do you have to say?”

From his seat in the VIP gallery, King Rousseau sternly inquired, but Clément-sama remained calm.

“I am not aware of any of this. I was in no way involved, and know nothing of it. This must be a part of Dor’s plot to ruin me―”

“Enough of your pedantics. It should be clear, just looking at it, that the evidence being presented is not an unfounded accusation.”

“…”

His argument flatly rejected by His Majesty, Clément-sama became silent.

“I’ll hear what you have to say at the prison. Guards, apprehend Clément!

When His Majesty gave the orders, the soldiers serving as security for the event―did not move to arrest Clément-sama.

“… What are you doing, apprehend Clement―”

Clément-sama―no, Clément raised the cane he was holding, and pointed its tip at King Rousseau.

“My soldiers. Relieve the King of Bauer, Rousseau, of his crown.”

75. Settling the Score

“That’s enough, Clément, you know it’s useless to resist!”

“No, that’s quite enough from you, little girl. You may have cornered me with your evidence, but it is obvious which of us truly has the advantage here and now.”

“… Krh!”

This wasn’t good. I thought that so long as I acquired certain evidence, presented it and made his crimes known, that would spell his end. However, that line of thought was too soft of me. Clément was willing to go so far as to go for King Rousseau's head, and, as if that weren’t enough, deliver that head as a souvenir to wherever he intended to flee. If I had to think of who might be happy with such a present, that would have to be―

“Clément, you’re with the Empire, aren’t you!”

“Hmph, you think too little of me, little girl. The empire is but the same as the Barlier over there, nothing more than someone to do business with. To think that you thought that I was, ‘with’, them.”

“Claire-sama, step back!”

“Rei! Let go of me! His Majesty’s life is in danger, there’s no way that I can just sit here and watch!”

It wasn’t just His Majesty either. All of the prominent figures from our neighboring countries, including their diplomats, were all in danger. At this rate, there would be a much larger problem at hand than just capturing Clément.

“Your Majesty, please leave this to me and go.”

“Sein…”

“You are an existence that Bauer needs. You must not allow yourself to come into harm here, by a fiend like Clément.”

“… Sein, could it be you―”

“Please, go quickly.”

“… I’ll leave this to you.”

From the VIP gallery, Sein-sama was doing what he could to allow King Rousseau to escape. He sent most, if not all of their guards to escort the King, thus leaving Sein-sama to fend for himself.

“… Goodness, Sein-sama is so gallant!”

I used my fire magic to put down Clément’s soldiers as they approached. Without my wand, the potency of my magic was already stunted, but even then I held myself back. Even as I did so, I wore a bitter smile. In all likelihood, Sein-sama had heard the various rumors, and now held doubts about his origins. In other words, he might not even be sure whether or not King Rousseau is truly his father. And yet, Sein-sama’s choice was clear. His love and respect for the King ran much deeper, much thicker than blood alone.

“In comparison, just how wretched can this weasel be!”

Up on the stage, Clément had taken the musicians hostage, looking on at the situation here as a distant observer. The ones doing all of the work were his soldiers. And, in all likelihood, those soldiers were only doing this because Clément had dirt on them and was using that against them. It was only because I felt that way that I was holding back, otherwise I’d just reduce them to ashes.

“You girls are rather stubborn. However, it’s the end of the line. Prince Sein, that goes for you as well.”

Clément’s low voice echoed through the hall. When I looked up at the stage, I saw Clément holding a dagger to Loretta’s throat.

“If you take even another step, I’ll kill this girl.”

“Just try. When you do, I’ll be the one to burn you to the ground.”

“Can you really? Even through this human shield?”

“… You’re absolute filth.”

“I call it my sly wisdom.”

When Clément-sama laughed and his wrinkles contorted and deepened, he looked like the personification of wickedness. Under normal circumstances, someone as proficient in the martial arts such as Loretta would never allow themselves to so easily be taken hostage, but right now she was entirely unarmed. If only she could have taken her wand with her, to the very least… Clément should not have had a dagger with him either, but as the organizer he had his ways around that.

“Claire-sama, don’t worry about me and just do it!”

“Just what do you think you’re saying!?”

“If it’s for you, Claire-sama, I wouldn’t mind it even if I died.”

“Absolutely not! I’ll be sure to find a way to save you, so you just be quiet for now.”

“I won’t!”

“!?”

Her scream just then was so grief stricken that for a moment I was taken aback.

“In the end, the little girl is but a little girl. Milia’s daughter, don’t you understand what the Cugletto girl is trying to say? It appears you don’t.”

“… And you suggest that you do?”

“Hah, as if I wouldn’t. This one here seems to have taken quite the liking to you. How haven’t you noticed?”

“!? Loretta… You…”

“I’m sorry, Claire-sama… That someone like me fell in love with you. However, just thinking that something might happen to you here, I…”

Loretta faced downward as she spoke. Her face had gone dark and I couldn’t make out her expression, but I could see something sparkle as it trickled down her cheek before falling onto the carpet.

“Now, little girl, give it up. Think of it as a temporary draw, just for right now. Broadly speaking, I’ve already lost―to the very least here in this kingdom. However, I will make sure to settle the score with you sooner or later.”

“Do you really think we’d just let you go?”

“Hmph, commoner, there’s nothing that you can do here either.”

“Loretta means nothing to me. In fact, neither Sein-sama nor King Rousseau do either.”

“Rei!?”

My eyes opened wide in shock in response to Rei’s incredulous statement.

“That is precisely why. Your top priority is always the little miss François, isn’t it?”

“Even as decrepit and senile as you seem, you understand pretty well, don’t you.”

“That’s right. Even if you do manage to take me down here, if those important to the little girl were to die, there is no doubt that you’d be betraying her trust.”

“… Damned geezer…”

“Just like I’ve said, sly wisdom.”

Was even Rei simply in the palm of this old man’s hands? Something… Isn’t there something…!?

“Alright everyone, remain as you are. My soldiers, go after King Rousseau. I will―”

“And so, don’t you think we’ve waited long enough, Pipi?”

“Yeah, Loretta.”

In that moment as everyone wondered what was happening―

“Angelic Howl!”

A bass note so low that one could physically feel its weight echoed, causing I, and everyone else here to drop to their knees.

“What… This…!”

“Alright, so this time it really is checkmate… Right Loretta?”

“Yeah.”

Loretta approached Clément, who was still unable to stand―and more than that, still didn’t have a clue what was happening―and tied him up using the string of a nearby contrabass.

“Y-You, the Barlier girl… Just what did you…!”

“There’s something called the Hate Cry, are you aware of it, Clément-sama?”

“Huh?”

“Just now I reproduced that very Hate Cry with an instrument. Though I didn’t expect for it to affect such a wide area or be so effective.”

With a grin, Pipi revealed the ace up her sleeve. The Hate Cry she mentioned was a howl that monsters often used as a way of intimidation. If one is caught off guard by it, they will be rendered unable to move. It’s one and the same as the one that Relaire’s mother had used in the past. It would appear that Pipi replicated that as a spell.

“What… Then that instrument is…?”

“Why yes, it’s a magic artifact. I did dress it up a bit though.”

Pipi stuck her tongue out with a teehee, almost like a little kid who had successfully pranked someone.

“No… Because of something like this… I…”

“That’s right, it’s over.”

“Impossible…! My army, just what are you doing! Hurry and stand and do something!”

Clément, the poor sport he is, shouted with all his might, but no one responded. Now convinced that Clément had been caught, his private army surrendered one after another. It spelled a pitiful end for this old man, who had only ever taken advantage of others and threatened them to do his bidding.

“What an achievement, you two!”

After Pipi’s magic had worn off and I could stand back up, I rushed up onto the stage and hugged them both.

“Ow, ow! It hurts, Claire-sama!”

“Oh, you’ll have to put up with at least this. After that little act you did, you made me worry so much!”

“An act… You say?”

“Yeah, like when you said you had fallen for me and such.”

I thought that, of course, it had all just been an act.

“… Sigh…”

“What is it, why are you sighing?”

“You have my sympathies, Loretta-sama.”

“This really was a love never meant to be.”

“I mean, Loretta will be fine because she has me, right?”

“”””Eh?””””

Just as a new chaos was about to spread,

“Everyone, you’ve done very well.”

“Your Majesty!”

When King Rousseau stepped down from the VIP gallery and appeared before us, we all kneeled.

“Be at ease. You all handled this situation marvelously. Especially the girls from House Barliet and House Cugletto. I must see to it that you are both rewarded in kind.”

“Not at all!”

“Your kindness is wasted on us!”

Pipi and Loretta both shrunk back in response to His Majesty’s praise.

“Claire François, Rei Taylor, Lily Lillium.”

“Sire.”

“Yes.”

“Y-Yes!”

“In your report, you appealed for House Barlier to have its sentence for participating in human trafficking reduced, isn’t that right?”

“That is correct, Your Majesty.”

“I will certainly consider it. I ask that you all continue your work in your investigation.”

“Understood.”

His Majesty gave us one final nod before leaving with his imperial guards.

“But well, that really was quite the pinch wasn’t it.”

“It was quite the surprise. Rei, I never would have thought there were situations where even you’d be at a complete loss.”

“Well, that’s because he and I are the same kind of people.”

“T-The same?”

“If there’s something we really want, we’d do whatever it takes.”

“A-Ah…”

Lily-sama seemed to be satisfied with Rei’s explanation, but,

“You’re not at all the same.”

I flatly denied it.

“What’s different then?”

“In the first place, Rei, your goals aren’t malicious. You’re entirely different.”

“… Hey, see that, Loretta?”

“They really do understand each other, don’t they.”

“Just what do you mean!”

“Oh nothing!”

“Just that Claire-sama is an idiot!”

“Eehhh!?”

As we shared that exchange and had a moment of laughter, I saw someone just in the corner of my periphery. Wrapping up the conversation, I rushed after them.

76. Farewell

“You there, stop where you are.”

“…!”

I left the concert hall through its back door to find that the alleyway, only meant to be used by the hall staff and authorized parties, had already gone dark.

The individual I called out to was likely one of the musicians that performed for the festival, he was wearing a tailcoat. At first glance, he didn’t seem particularly suspicious, but then why would he feel the need to restrain his breathing and quietly leave from the back door? I just found it to be a little curious.

“Hm, do you need something?”

“Pardon me, there are just two or three things I’d like to confirm. Could you spare a little of your time?”

“Unfortunately I’m in a bit of a hurry. Well then, I’ll be―”

“Move an inch and I’ll shoot.”

“!”

Drawing the wand I had reclaimed upon leaving the hall, I pointed it straight at the man. I couldn’t quite place it, but something just felt out of place. Perhaps it was a sense of deja vu.

“What is the meaning of this?”

“Your hand―let me have a look at your hand.”

“Go ahead.”

The man openly did as I said. I approached him and took a close look at his hand. On the stage, he performed the violin. That meant that, like Pipi, he too should have calluses from the violin’s bow. And even though his hand did have them, for some reason I still had my doubts.

“Look at the bracelet~, Claire-chan!’

“…! It’s a magic artifact that’s used for disguise!”

“Tch…!”

The man clicked his tongue with obvious frustration before making a break for it.

“Milord, this is as far as you go.”

“!? Ema, you… Do you intend to betray me!?”

“Lady Catherine is the only one that I serve. I have no recollection of ever serving you, Milord.”

“Let me go! Let me go…!”

The one who had subdued the man was none other than Ema. The technique she used to pin him down was definitely not one that you’d expect from a regular maid.

“Ema… And Catherine too. Milord… Wait, does that mean this man is…?”

“Yup. Ema, the bracelet~”

“Right away.”

When Ema tore the bracelet off of the man, his appearance rapidly changed―

“Clément Achard… How, just how is this possible…?”

“There was a mage that House Achard had made arrangements with at the festival~ He can use a spell to swap people’s paces~ I believe the magic was called Castling~?”

Catherine gave her explanation from her wheelchair. She skillfully used her hands to operate the wheels and approached me.

“Catherine! You… ungrateful… Have you no regard for how much trouble I’ve gone through to raise you!”

“I truly am grateful for that, really, from the bottom of my heart, father~ But don’t you think it’s time we put an end to this~? Don’t do anything that would further sully the Achard name.”

Even while still pinned firmly to the ground, Clément continued his struggle to break free.

“I myself AM the Achard legacy! So long as I live, the Achard lineage continues!”

“But it’s already long over, father~ It’s been over ever since that day ten years ago…”

“Ten years ago…? Catherine, what are you saying…?”

I suddenly felt uneasy, a sinking feeling, like something terrible was about to happen.

“Claire-chan, I need to apologize to you.”

“Catherine…?”

“Ten years ago, the one who killed your mother, Milia-sama―was me.”

“ー!?”

For a split second, I couldn’t at all parse what she was saying. No, I’m sure that my ears heard what she said, it’s just, my heart had rejected it. I mean, it sounded so ridiculous, just how could something like that!?

“Catherine, what do you mean? My mother passed away in an accident…”

“And that accident… Was not an accident. My father sent me out to the François manor as an assassin.”

“What… Just what are you saying, I don’t understand any of it!”

Unable to comprehend what was happening, my body instinctively held my wand at the ready. Catherine showed no sign that she’d move out of the way, she simply sat on her wheelchair smiling.

― That very same smile she always put on.

“On that day, I, along with three skilled assassins, were all riding the carriage that crashed into House François' personal carriage. We feigned an accident to stop the carriage, and the four of us were to attack Dor-sama and any others there.

As though she had entered a soliloquy, Catherine’s words continued on.

“The one who fought us off was Milia-sama.”

“My mother did…?”

“If I had to guess, Dor-sama can’t really use offensive magic, right? Either way, Milia-sama was the one to intercept us. After casting some sort of defensive seal to protect the carriage, Milia-sama stepped out alone and empty handed to intercept us.”

As though to recall the events of that day within her mind, Catherine closed her eyes.

“… And then…?”

“I suppose you could say it ended in a draw. On my end, everyone but me was dead, and I had a grave injury to my leg leaving me immobile. Milia-sama―”

“And my mother…?”

“She died trying to protect me.”

“What… Do you mean by that…?”

When I asked for an explanation, Catherine opened her eyes. Her expression, filled to the brim with self hatred, was twisted and contorted to extremes that I had never seen from her before.

“There was another party keeping an eye on the situation. When they realized that we had failed, they moved in to erase the evidence. I and the other three assassins were about to be erased. But then, Milia-sama saved me.”

“Mother…”

“After it was all over, I used my magic to make it all as though it had never happened. I’m sure that to the people at the scene of the crime, it had all just looked like a simple accident.”

“Catherine… Just what are you…”

“That’s why, Claire-chan, I’m the one who killed Milia-sama. I’ve always felt that I needed to apologize properly. I’m sorry.”

From atop her wheelchair, Catherine gave me a deep bow.

“Even if… You tell me all this now… What do you want me to do about it…! That… There’s no way that…!”

“I won’t ask that you forgive me. I know the gravity of what I’ve done. However, I ask that you allow me to repent.”

“Repent…?”

When I asked, Catherine raised her head. And there, in her hand, was her wand.

“!?”

“Just relax. I’m not going to hurt you.”

Catherine then pointed her wand―at Clément.

“Wait, Catherine! What are you doing!”

“I’m sure you already know, father. After all, my magic is―”

“Wait, stop! I won’t end this way! After running to the Empire, I’ll wait for my next―!”

“Eraser.”

I sensed an incredibly strong magic force from Catherine’s wand. The invisible force traveled toward Clément, enveloping him.

“No! I don’t want to forget! I’ll no longer be me!”

“Someone…! Anyone… Help… Me…”

And then, as though he had lost all strength in his body, Clément dropped with a plop.

“… Did you kill him?

“Mn, no. But I just tampered with his spirit a bit.”

“Wasn’t your magic… The ability to turn invisible and conceal yourself?”

“I can use it to do that, but fundamentally, it’s entirely different.”

Catherine instructed Ema to take Clément away.

“My magic allows me to erase memories.”

“Erase memories?”

“Yup. To conceal myself, I just erase the specific memories people have of seeing me.”

“How clever.”

“Ehehe~ But you know, the way that this magic is really meant to be used is―”

“!?”

I had let my guard down. I had just blindly trusted her when she said that she wouldn’t harm me. Catherine had now pointed her wand at me.

“Catherine…!”

“Claire-chan, I’ll take it upon myself to erase your… No, everyone’s memories of me.”

“No…!”

“My sin is so grave, that even death would be too lenient. From now on, I’ll continue to live without ever allowing anyone to retain memories of me.”

“No… That’s… You're practically going to be denying your very own existence!”

She won’t be seen by anyone, nor will she ever remain in their memory―such an existence can no longer be called living.

“That’s right. That cursed way of life―will be my punishment.”

“Please think this over!”

“I’m sorry, Claire-chan.”

As I felt my strength slipping out of my arms and my legs, I felt something very important vanishing from within my mind.

“I… I definitely won’t forget! No matter what it is that you’ve done, I won’t… I absolutely won’t!”

“Claire-chan…”

“Just watch Catherine…! Even if you try to act tough like this… Deep down I… Know…”

I could feel my consciousness drift away.

Just now, I… Who was I talking to, and what were we talking about…?”

“… I don’t want to do this… I really don’t… But… But!”

As my consciousness faded away, I heard someone’s words through their tears, but I no longer knew who those words belonged to.

“Goodbye… Claire-chan.”

Those last words were so wrought with so much sadness… Unable to hold back my tears from flooding down my cheeks, I dropped into a deep sleep.

77. Memories of Licorice

When I awoke, I found myself back in my room. If I recall… I managed to corner Clément…

A thick fog seemed to cover my memories. I took a look around my room, but didn’t notice anything out of place. The bunk bed, with bedding only set in the bottom bunk, and just one desk and dresser for furniture. It was just my usual dorm room, where I had been living alone.

I could already see the sun shining through the curtains. The sun’s rays had a warm hue which suggested that rather than morning, it was closer to noon.

“Claire-sama~!”

Without giving me even the chance to respond, the door swung open. The one who rushed into the room was, of course, Rei.

“Hey, Rei! Even if it may be you, to the very least you should still knock.”

“Even… If it’s me!? Does that mean… That I really am special to you after all?”

“Krh… Lately… You’ve been getting a little too carried away.”

“Tehehe, my apologies. And so, how are you feeling?”

With a drastic drop from playful to serious, Rei cast me a worried gaze.

“How am I feeling? No different from usual.”

“That’s great…! For a while I was really worried.”

“Did something happen?”

“What do you mean? Don’t you remember?”

Rei placed her hands on her hips and leaned forward angrily.

“My memories seem to be a little vague. I’ll need you to explain.”

“I found you on the ground in the alley just outside of the concert hall. I was just starting to wonder where you had gone… What were you doing at a place like that?”

“What, of course I was… Hmm, what was I doing?”

I couldn’t really seem to remember. I do seem to remember chasing someone out of the hall…

“I suppose lapses in memory even happen to people as sharp as you, huh, Claire-sama.”

“Well I mean, of course. I certainly am confident in my memory, but there are limits.”

“That’s true~ By the way, Claire-sama, I remember all of the different clothes you’ve worn, and hairstyles you’ve had ever since the day I first met you!”

“What a huge waste of headspace!”

Just what enjoyment did she get from doing something like that?

“But I mean, aren’t there just some things you never want to forget?”

“Of course.”

“To me, that’s any and all information about Claire-sama. I want to remember it all. As much as I can, and as long as I can.”

“Yes sure, that’s all fine and well.”

In response to my exasperation, Rei’s face momentarily lit up as though she had realized something.

“Hm, what was it…”

“Is something the matter?”

“No, well, I can’t quite place it, but I feel like I’m forgetting something…”

“That’s a coincidence, I seem to feel the same.”

“Oh, you feel the same way! Alright then, it’s time for our good morning kiss―”

“Something like that should just be left forgotten!”

I threw my pillow at Rei.

“I’m just kidding. After all, I’d much prefer our first kiss be from you, Claire-sama!”

“Something like that will never happen, so don’t worry about it.”

“Claire-sama, you’re so cold~ But that’s exactly the part I love~!”

“Y-You truly exhaust me…”

When I let my fatigue show,

“But well, you really did collapse, so please make sure to get proper rest today. I think it would be best if we take a day off from our special duties tomorrow as well.”

“There’s no way we could. We still need to investigate Salas-sama, not to mention my own father.”

“Even just apprehending Clément is a huge achievement. I’m sure the King wouldn’t mind it if we just took a day.”

“But…”

“Listen to me, Claire-sama.”

With a serious expression, Rei pointed her forefinger up.

“Good work stems from good health.”

“R-Right…”

“Even if you push yourself while you’re feeling unwell, the only one that would be happy seeing that is a sleazy boss.”

“You wouldn’t happen to be referring to Rodd-sama, would you?”

If so, she really must learn to rein her disrespect in.

“Ah, no, it’s an entirely different matter.”

“But your words definitely seemed to carry some weight.”

“Well… I just have some strong opinions when it comes to worker exploitation.”

“I-Is that so…”

I didn’t quite understand exactly what she was referring to, but from the context I got the gist of it.

“In any case! Please just take it easy tomorrow. For now, we should have breakfast… No, I suppose it would be lunch? Either way, I’ll bring it right away.”

“Thank you.”

“Claire-sama, are you feeling hungry?”

“Yes, as I normally would.”

“Great, then please just wait a little longer.”

“Thank you, I appreciate it, Rei.”

I saw Rei off as she left the room to prepare my meal.

“That said, it doesn’t feel right for me to lie back down when I’ve just gotten up…”

If Rei were to see me, she might say something, but I wanted something to read so I stood and approached my desk.

“? What’s this…?”

There on my desk was an unfamiliar pot of candy. I thought perhaps Rei had purchased it, but when I opened the lid and looked, there was only one left inside.

“This is… Licorice?”

Its very unique scent seemed to tickle my nostrils. I certainly wouldn’t say that I liked the scent, but for some reason, as though by reflex, I put the candy in my mouth.

“… Eh?”

Suddenly, I found myself crying. I didn’t understand why, but no matter how much I wiped away the tears, the stream kept flowing.

There was no proof of it, no traces of it, and no memories of it either… And yet, somehow, I couldn’t help but feel that someone precious to me, that was and should have been here by my side, was missing.

“Just what’s happened to me…”

I simply stood still, working away at the candy. By the time it was gone, the storm of emotions I felt had passed too.

“Sorry to have kept you waiting, Claire-sama―wait, that’s no good, you need to be resting.”

“I only just woke up, so it’s not like I can simply go back to sleep―wait, wha!?”

The moment Rei saw my face, she placed the tray she was holding down on the desk and leaned in very close.

“Claire-sama, did something happen?”

“S-Something? Hey, wait, Rei! You’re close! Way too close!”

“Your eyes are red. Were you crying?”

“It’s just because I just woke up.”

“But you were fine just before. Didn’t I tell you? I don’t forget anything if it’s about you, Claire-sama.”

“Don’t know and I don’t care!”

Where did all of those tears come from? Why did I suddenly feel so sad? I really didn’t understand it myself.

“Either way, I am doing just fine, so let’s eat. What are we having?”

“I’ll make sure I ask for all the details after then. Today is―”

After that, we returned to our usual selves.

And, just like that, I had lost the memories of someone very precious to me. Without even being able to realize what I had lost.

78. Even if everyone else forgets

　※Told from Catherine Achard’s perspective.

I erased Claire-chan’s memories of me first, and then erased my existence from the memories of all who knew me save one person. From now on too, I intend to erase the memories of anyone that I may meet.

―Because… That was the punishment that I had decided on for myself.

I looked at Claire-chan who had fallen unconscious. She normally gave a rather strict impression, but asleep, she looked terribly young… And, for a long time now, I had been trying to kill her.

I never said this to Claire-chan, but our meeting, and the fact that we became childhood friends was neither coincidence or fate. It was an order from my father. Following my father’s orders, I vigilantly awaited the right opportunity.

―Or rather, I pretended to.

I had never intended to actually kill her. After all, my very life had been saved by her mother, Milia-sama. Just how was I supposed to bring myself to kill the daughter of someone I owed so much to? The sole reason I maintained the facade of obedience was because I knew that, if I did, my father would not elect to send another assassin.

But now, even those days were at their end.

Giving Claire-chan one last hug, I let her go. I’d been preparing for this day for a long time, and I couldn’t afford to stay here long. I must hurry and get out of Bauer.

Hurry as I might, I was in my wheelchair so I wasn’t able to move especially quickly. While experiencing that frustration first hand, I made my way toward the capital’s west gate.

“…”

The capital remained crowded even at night. Even though the moon was already high in the sky, I could still hear the sounds of merrymaking from the restaurants and bars that lined the street. It was likely coworkers and friends, getting together to celebrate the end to a long day of work. However, from here on, I would never have someone like that.

― Completely alone.

Until now, I had pretty much always had Claire-chan by my side. Really, it was unclear to me how long I’d really be able to last on my own. Even so, this was something that I must do. Suicide was a lukewarm escape that I would not allow myself.

“Mm~ I wonder if Claire-chan safely made it back to her room~”

There should be no need to worry. After all, Claire-chan had Rei-chan, her wonderful partner. It would seem that Claire-chan hadn’t quite completely opened up to her just yet, but in my eyes it was only a matter of time. Sooner or later, those two would surely end up together.

Even aside from Rei-chan, Claire-chan had plenty of supportive people around her. For example, Pipi-chan, Loretta-chan, and until recently, Lene-chan. The one who had left the strongest impression on me was Manaria-sama. You could say that she was something like Claire-chan’s older sister. When we met for the first time, she nullified my magic and said this,

―Are you Claire’s enemy? Or are you on her side?

It appeared that Manaria-sama already knew the truth behind my magic. That’s why she immediately recognized that it was a spell very suited toward assassination. Depending on my response, it was largely possible that I could have been killed then and there. That’s why I chose to tell her everything.

― If it comes to it, feel free to rely on me. I should be able to help in one way or another.

It was then that Manaria-sama accepted me as her little sister’s friend. From her words, I truly sensed just how sincerely she cared for her little sister.

“How nice…”

Unintentionally, words of envy slipped out. No, I can’t. I don’t have the right to hope for someone that would care for me as much as Rei-chan or Manaria-sama care for Claire-chan. Isn’t this what I decided? To be alone, forever.

“I really hope that, to the very least, Claire-chan can find happiness~”

As that thought passed my mind, I had arrived at the west gate.

“Hm? What’s your deal?”

The gatekeeper noticed me.

“Good evening~”

“Ah… Could it be that you want to leave?”

“Yeah~”

“Well we’re closing the gate for today, you’ll have to come back tomorrow.”

“Ah, but you see, I really can’t wait that long~”

There shouldn’t be anyone who remembered who I was anymore, but because of what happened with my father, the capital was in a state of alert. As a result, I suppose it made sense that the gate protocol would be strict.

“Nope, not happening. Give up on going tonight.”

“I suppose it can’t be helped~”

Gathering the small amount of magic I had left, I stole the gatekeeper’s memories of me. As he lost consciousness and collapsed, I gently caught him.

“Sorry~ But I’ll be making my way through~”

Gently setting the gatekeeper down on the ground, I pushed myself through the gate.

“My lady, just where is it that you intend to go? And while leaving me behind?”

“… Eh?”

Just after I made it past the west gate, an unexpected voice called out to stop me. When I looked in the direction of the voice, I saw the silhouette of someone that should not have even possibly been here.

“Ema…?”

“You disappeared on me when I took my eyes off of you for just a moment, so I’ve been looking for you.”

“No… But that’s…”

“If you plan to go somewhere, please make sure you let me know first.”

“… But why…?”

I was sure that I had cast memory magic on Ema as well. And yet, it seemed that Ema hadn’t forgotten about me.

“What do you mean, why?”

“Because… My magic lets me erase the memories of my target. So, Ema, why are you…”

“Ah, so that’s what this is about.”

Ema was the pinnacle of calm as she continued.

“I have a body that makes it difficult for magic to affect me.”

“It’s harder for magic to… affect you…?”

“Yes. I’m unaware of the specifics, but my daughter is completely resistant to magic. Perhaps it’s my genetics.”

From what Ema told me about her past, it seems that she was actually a member of a former kingdom’s royalty. She said that the kingdom had fallen to ruin, and she was forced to abandon it. Apparently the daughter she had given birth to prior to all that completely nullified magic.

“That’s why, it’s not possible for my lady to erase my memories. Please just give up already, and allow me to remain by your side.”

“No but… I just can’t… I decided for myself that I must continue to live alone. Ema, not even you can be an exception to that rule.”

“I don’t know anything about that. All I know, Lady Catherine, is that you, and you alone are my lifelong master. Regardless of what my lady thinks of it, I have no intention to change my mind.

Ema simply shrugged off my explanation as if it meant nothing to her. I knew that she was very stubborn. Now that it’s come to this, it would be difficult to convince her. However, I had to.

“I’m no longer part of the Achard lineage.”

“I am aware.”

“I don’t have any money to pay you.”

“Yes, I’m aware of that too.”

“That’s why, there’s no need for you to serve me anymore, Ema.”

“I still need to repay you for your kindness.”

“Ema…”

It seemed like Ema insisted on coming with me no matter what.

“My lady, you are the one who saved my life. When I was without direction, and knew nothing of the real world, you are the one who gave me a new path.”

Ema’s eyes expressed her sincerity.

“I believe that accompanying you on your journey toward atonement is my way of repaying you.”

As she said that, she bowed before me as my loyal servant. With a loud sigh,

“I don’t care anymore. Do as you’d like.”

“Yes, that is exactly what I’ll do.”

“… Darn stubborn…”

“I will return those words straight to you, my lady.”

I turned my wheelchair and tried to get away from the area, but suddenly noticed that I didn’t need as much force to push myself.

“I can do this myself.”

“I am simply doing as I’d like.”

“My arms will atrophy.”

“You’ve already traveled much further than you normally do on your own. I believe that you’ve already met today’s quota.”

“…”

It appeared that no matter what I said, Ema had no intention to budge. Even as that made me feel an immense sense of guilt―I felt a tremendous happiness knowing the long journey ahead of me would not be one that I had to make alone.

“… Ema”

“Yes, my lady?”

“… Thank you.”

“You waste your words on me.”

How I’d live, or how long I’d be able to live were both things I still wasn’t sure of. However, one thing I could be sure of was that my journey for atonement would, surely, be a long one. Even then, I choose to live on.

Along with my awkward, but kind hearted servant.

79. Forbidden Fire

As a deep sense of loss still weighed heavy on my heart, and, even while I still didn’t know the truth behind it, I continued on with my mission to expose corrupt nobility. As part of our investigation, we came into contact with a rebel force within the kingdom and negotiated with them, just as Rei told us to. I didn’t quite understand the meaning, or significance behind her actions, but it appeared that Rei had something to gain from doing so. Then finally, we cornered Salas, and with Relaire’s help, were just about to put him in checkmate. But then, at that very moment―

“Lily… Truly, what a pitiful child you are. May the Spirit show you mercy. ”

Perhaps those words were some sort of curse? After Salas-sama recited them, Lily very suddenly collapsed to the floor.,

“Cardinal Lily!?”

I tried to rush to her side, but,

“Claire-sama, watch out!”

Rei grabbed my clothing and pulled me back. At that exact moment there was a flash of silver as something swung in an arc, causing a couple of my hairs to scatter.

“Really… Just makes me sick.”

A carefree voice, unfitting for the time and occasion, echoed through the room. Rei had forced her way in between me and Cardinal Lily, who almost seemed like an entirely different person. Without letting her guard down, she spoke,

“You’re…”

“Hey, Rei-san, and Claire-sama, how’ve ya been, haven’t seen either of you since last night.”

She spoke like an entirely different person as well, and I knew where I had heard these mannerisms before. There was no way that I could forget. It was the masked man who had gotten in our way numerous times before.

“Salas! What have you done to Cardinal Lily!”

Remaining wary of Cardinal Lily, I pressed Salas for an answer.

“If I recall, that commoner there was a dual caster, isn’t that right.”

“Answer my question!”

“Oh, but I am. When I attended the academy in my youth, I specialized in studies of suggestion. The theme of my research was to find a way to artificially imbue individuals with multiple affinities.”

Salas spoke with a grim smirk.

“Guards, apprehend Salas and Lily, immediately.”

On King Rousseau’s command, the guards moved to surround Salas and Cardinal Lily. However―

“Hah, d’ya really think trash like this could stop me?”

Cardinal Lily drew her knife and brandished it. All of the guards were forced to go on the defensive. Saying it in that way may make it sound like the kingdom’s royal guard was useless, but it must be said that these soldiers were the kingdom’s finest, handpicked to serve the King. It would be different if it was one on one, but it would likely be difficult for even Rei to take on this number of people all at the same time. Simply put, it was not that the guards were weak, but that Cardinal Lily was exceedingly strong.

“Cardinal Lily, please stop!”

“It’s futile. While that is Lily, it is also no longer Lily.”

Salas gave a low chuckle.

“My experiments to create a dual caster were… Half successful.”

“What does that even mean?”

When Rei asked, Salas took the tone of an instructor explaining something to a failing student.

“With the power of suggestion, I succeeded in creating alternate personalities within people. Then I discovered that this new personality could possess new and different affinities.”

Cardinal Lily should have only had affinity in water magic. Salas claimed that through his suggestions, a new personality surfaced, which was capable of using other elements. Was something like that really possible? I found it difficult to believe.

“So you intend to say the masked man was actually Lily this whole time, then?”

“That’s right. While she helped you investigate me, the whole time, she was leaking the details, and your progress behind your back.”

Then with a sneer,

“Though, at the very last moment you did almost manage to get the best of me with your surprise.”

That would go to explain why we didn’t find anything when we looked at Salas’ ledgers in his office the first time. He had gotten information through Cardinal Lily, and knew what he needed to adjust.

“But they looked entirely different! This isn’t something that’s possible just through disguise…”

“It’s likely a magic artifact. Remember? Lily-sama let us borrow it during the incident with Yuu-sama.”

When Rei pointed that out, it was like everything seemed to snap into place. That’s right. When Rei swapped places with Yuu-sama, we had used a certain magic artifact. At the time, I just simply thought it was convenient that she had such a thing ready, but now that Rei mentioned it, this was likely what the artifact was really for.

“Is Lily-sama, herself, aware that you’ve done this to her?”

Rei’s tone as she asked the question was firm, as though she already knew what the answer would be.

“Of course she doesn’t. If she did, I’m sure that child would take her own life.”

How absolutely despicable. Making Cardinal Lily, who was so pure and innocent, his pawn to chase after his selfish ambitions.

“Go on Lily, dispose of all of them.”

“Ya really make it sound simple huh. Rei and Claire are right there you know.”

“I’m sure that you’ll find a way.”

“Not saying I can’t, but I might not be able to protect ya through it.”

“Hm…”

Even as they talked, the royal guards kept falling one after another. Lily’s blade remained steadfast. It was clear this personality felt no hesitation to hurt others. If we left things as they were.. Who knows what tragedies would result from it.

“In that case, let’s make retreating our priority.”

“I won’t let you!”

I had already made preparations to cast Magic Ray. I really didn’t care what happened to Salas, but potentially harming Cardinal Lily did weigh on my mind. That said, given the circumstances I couldn’t afford to entertain such thoughts.

“Salas, Cardinal Lily, this isn’t a spell that I’m able to pull my punches with. If you value your lives, surrender now.”

I moved to a position where I’d be able to maintain light of sight with both of them and gave my ultimatum.

“Well, what are you going to do about this?”

“I think ya should do a bit more work… Yourself!”

Cardinal Lily cut down the last of the guards that once surrounded her before moving on to the guards that surrounded Salas. It didn’t appear as though either of them had any intention to heed my words.

“Cardinal Lily, stop right this instant! If you do anything else, I’ll shoot!”

“Be my guest.”

“!”

She continued to swing her knife without any concern for my final warning. I couldn’t afford to let there be any more victims.

“… Krh… Forgive me!”

Left with no choice, I hardened my resolve and fired my Magic Ray at Cardinal Lily. The four streams of light flooded toward her, burning through―

“What!?”

The streams in fact did not burn through her, but instead dispersed just before making contact.

“Ah, I should have mentioned that Lily here is my greatest masterpiece. She perhaps falls short of Queen Manaria overall, but she can use a spell that rivals Queen Manaria’s own.

Salas seemed especially pleased with himself as he spoke through his wide grin.

“So that wasn’t Spell Breaker?”

“Oh, no, it’s nothing as outlandish as that. This Lily here has a high affinity for wind magic and her speciality is controlling time.”

Controlling… Time…? Then―she had reversed time on my Magic Ray, returning it to a state where it was raw magic and not yet a proper spell―is that what happened? That sounded absolutely ridiculous.

“You just said, your masterpiece, didn’t you? That means… Lily-sama isn’t the only one you tampered with?”

“Of course. What parent would choose to first experiment on their own child. I only operated on Lily after I had finished my research. And of course―”

Salas paused before continuing,

“It took quite a lot to complete my research. Ten, maybe twenty? Even that is likely a low estimate of how many orphans either lost their minds or went comatose.”

Even as he spoke of something so horrific, he appeared completely unperturbed.

“You’re absolute filth.”

Now aiming at Salas, I fired my Magic Ray once more.

“Whoops, can’t let that happen.”

But once again, after clearing away the surrounding guards, Cardinal Lily had made it just in time to nullify my attack. In that case―!

“Rei, go after Salas! Prioritize quantity!”

Rei immediately grasped my intentions and immediately created twenty or so ice arrows before sending them to surround Salas.

“Tch… They sure do know their way around fights.”

If Cardinal Lily wanted to neutralize all of Rei’s frozen arrows, she couldn’t afford to leave Salas’ side. In effect, we were grounding her in place. Rei and I continued to fire off one spell after the next, and Cardinal Lily neutralized the spells to protect Salas. It would appear as though we were in a stalemate―but in truth we weren’t.

“Surrender, Cardinal Lily.”

“Why should I.”

“If this continues, you’ll be the one that runs out of mana first.”

In contrast to Cardinal Lily who fought alone, I had Rei with me. On top of that, the magic that we were using was all very basic. We were just creating a large number of magic arrows. I didn’t specifically know how much mana she consumed to control time, but I felt it was a safe bet that it took more than our arrows did.

“Lily-sama, please, just give up already.”

“I mean, it’s not like I’m here doing this cuz I want to, ya know?”

“In that case!”

“But even so.”

Cardinal Lily paused for emphasis.

“Even if he’s like this, the guy’s still my dad.”

Cardinal Lily’s face twisted in a self deprecating smile. She then retrieved a potion from her robe pockets, and instantly drank it all.

“No, it couldn’t be… Cantarella!?”

Rei’s shriek brought to mind memories of what happened during our battle with Louis at Euclid. Even just a run of the mill adventurer had gotten so much stronger. If Cardinal Lily became an undead that could also nullify magic, I couldn’t even begin to fathom how much danger we were in.

“Nah. This here’s just a super grade mana potion.”

So when she flatly denied that possibility, I felt quite relieved.

“Hmph, those are difficult to come by, there’s no way you could have more than a few.”

“Hah, that’s what ya think, but in my case it just happens to work out.”

Cardinal Lily looked at the potion’s bottle, focusing her gaze on it.

“!? But that’s basically cheating!?”

I could understand where Rei’s words came from. The empty potion bottle steadily filled back up before our very eyes. If I had to guess, this too must have been due to the effects of her time control.

“As ya can see, I can use the spell like this too.”

“Krh…”

I clenched my teeth, grinding them together in frustration. A super grade mana recovery potion would practically replenish all of one’s mana. If she could just keep downing the same potion, over and over, it was clear that we would be the ones to run out of mana first.

“Welp, if this keeps up, guess I just have to prepare myself for a long one.”

While making sure to keep a careful eye on Cardinal Lily, I wracked my brain trying to figure out some sort of countermeasure.

But then―

The ground began to shake violently.

◆◇◆◇◆

When the ground began shaking, I was suddenly pushed over. The next moment, I heard the sound of glass breaking. It must have been one of the audience room’s windows.

“But, just what…”

It appeared that Rei had pushed me down to the ground, trying to protect me. As a result, she was currently on top of me. We remained in that position for a little while.

“It looks like… It should be okay now.”

After Rei said that, she stood up and offered her hand to me. Still very much confused about what had just happened, I could only look around the audience room in shock. The once resplendent room had devolved into tragedy. All of the furniture was broken and a variety of gems, both big and small, littered the red carpet.

“Your Majesty!”

One of the guards raised his voice. The moment I saw, I immediately rushed over to the throne and tried to help him up. I felt myself turning more and more pale by the second. King Rousseau had collapsed to the floor, and blood gushed through a wound on his head.

“Rei, heal him!”

Even before I finished my statement, Rei had already rushed over to try and cast a healing spell. But even then―

“… It’s not doing anything. He’s already passed.”

“Just how could this…”

Bauer had just lost its wise king, King Rousseau. The kingdom had been thrown into a state of crisis.

“Right! What happened to Salas and Cardinal Lily!?”

I looked around the room, but neither of them were anywhere in sight. It appears that they took advantage of the chaos to make their escape.

Doing all that I could to contain my unease, I worked to sort out our current situation. In all likelihood, as had been recorded and predicted by history, Mount Sassal had just erupted. I couldn’t be sure, but it made sense as a conjecture. According to recorded history, even worse than the eruption itself, was what would come next. The time had come for the Kingdom of Bauer to be tested.

What I needed to do right now was―

It was at that moment I suddenly realized that Rei had collapsed onto her knees, just staring blankly. I couldn’t blame her. However, I needed her to remain by my side and support me.

“Rei… Rei! Pull yourself together.”

When I called out to her, Rei’s blank eyes slowly moved to focus on me. However, she still looked a little out of it.

“Forget about Salas and Cardinal Lily for now, there’s a lot that we need to get done.”

“… Claire-sama.”

“The Kingdom is on the verge of facing its largest crisis yet. The last time Mount Sassal erupted, it is recorded that a great famine followed.”

It is thought that debris from the eruption, as well as the ashes caused a massive decline in the kingdom’s agriculture. If we didn’t do something about that, many within the kingdom would face starvation. We needed some sort of countermeasure.

“The Kingdom must overcome this crisis… And it must do it without King Rousseau.”

That’s right. The Wise King, King Rousseau, was no more. We needed a new king to take his place, and we needed him urgently.

“Guards, contact the chairman of the House of Lords to call an emergency meeting. Also, please confirm Rodd-sama and Sein-sama’s safety. Go! As quickly as possible.”

Deciding that I’d deal with Rei later, I quickly gave instructions to any guards that could still move. We were in a race against time. It seemed the guards too had been left out of sorts, but as expected of the kingdom’s elite, once they knew what needed to be done, they quickly recovered and sprang to action.

Rei still seemed to be out of it. This wasn’t something I wanted to do, but it seemed I had no choice. I gave Rei a firm slap on her cheek.

“Get yourself together! Aren’t you the one that said that you’d support me! Were those words a lie!?”

My scathing words were in truth, a plea. In order to face the hardships ahead, she was necessary. She needed to recover. I needed her. For a little while, Rei seemed to just absently rub her cheek, but determination soon returned to her eyes.

“My deepest apologies. I’m alright now.”

“Very good.”

After I said that, I pulled her in for a short hug. We held each other, as though to affirm one another’s existence.

“We’re going to overcome this.”

“Right!”

Right after that, we both hurried to do what needed to be done. Our early response to the crisis wasn’t a bad one, but before long, we’d receive some terrible news.

A report came back stating that Rodd-sama had gone missing.

----

This concludes Chapter 7.

It will be some time before Chapter 8 is released.

We hope you will be patient.