Chapter 307 – The New Knight

“…This isn’t… metaphorical, is it?”

King Eberhart showed a surprised expression, but then seemed to recall something and his expression turned serious.

“Indeed, considering that powerful blessing, this does make sense.”

“Everything I’ve told you is the complete truth. I guarantee its veracity upon my name as King of Verdgar.”

King Melvin responded to King Eberhart’s words.

Everyone seemed to be experiencing varying degrees of confusion. A brief silence fell, which was broken by Old Sigmund.

“So that’s why… that extraordinary teleportation magic, something unimaginable under normal circumstances… It’s not something to be spoken of lightly.”

“Yes. That’s why that magic isn’t solely my power. I also borrow the labyrinth’s power and the strength of everyone praying at the temple.”

Claudia spoke in her usual tone.

Indeed. Precisely because the Sages’ Academy possessing teleportation magic is on Silvatoria’s side, we cannot leave these doubts unaddressed. Whether it’s teleportation using the Moon Temple or anything else, it’s necessary during emergencies. We want to avoid the foolishness of coordination gaps arising from distrust.

“…I knew you were no ordinary person, but… this is…”

“Indeed, even when fighting the Black Knights, the miasma didn’t affect you at all.”

Princess Adriana and Elliot showed astonished expressions.

“Um. Claudia-sama is Theodore-kun’s fiancée, correct? Which means…”

At Valentina’s words, Old Sigmund’s expression twitched.

“That would make him the goddess’s husband. I thought I was beyond surprise, but now I’m truly speechless.”

“…That’s the situation. Regarding the labyrinth, there are aspects we cannot handle directly. That’s where Theodore bridges the gap for us. I believe you now understand both the labyrinth’s importance and Theodore’s position in our country.”

King Eberhart nodded as if satisfied with King Melvin’s words.

“…I see. I understand the importance. With that said… there’s something I’d like to request of Theodore-dono.”

“If it’s something I can do.”

“Indeed. This would be an ongoing request. Would you be willing to perform the purification of the miasma that the Silvatoria king receives through the ritual? Of course, I promise we’ll prepare adequate compensation.”

Given that currently no one else can use circulating ki, I had anticipated this request. Part of conveying Claudia’s importance was likely to communicate my position in Verdgar and gain understanding from King Eberhart and Old Sigmund.

Just as Elliot returned to Verdgar, there might have been considerations about me, as a direct descendant of the seven families, being on Silvatoria’s side.

“I humbly accept.”

There’s no reason to refuse this. A prompt agreement should be fine.

“Oh! You’ll do it? My thanks!”

“I’ve heard that users of magical power circulation have their bodies revitalized, making them resistant to aging and able to maintain their youthfulness indefinitely. This should ensure the Silvatoria king’s wellbeing for several generations.”

Said Old Sigmund. …Is that so? I wasn’t aware of the long-term effects of magical power circulation.

“Indeed. That’s reassuring. And one more thing—this isn’t for immediately, but since it concerns you as well, I’d like you to consider it.”

King Eberhart said this and looked toward Old Sigmund.

“Hmm… This is about the Wilcloud family, I presume?”

“Indeed.”

The two nodded to each other. Old Sigmund then took over the explanation.

“With Patricia gone, we have the problem of the Wilcloud family having no successor…”

“The Wilcloud family’s succession issue?”

“Indeed. However, the family headship isn’t an immediate concern. Though I’m of advanced age, we’ve discussed and finalized with the other six families the plan to adopt Valentina into the Wilcloud family as the next head.”

Valentina bowed in response to Old Sigmund’s words.

I see. Since the seven sage families are also related, even if not direct descendants, adopting someone as a temporary head makes sense.

This ensures the Wilcloud family won’t die out for the foreseeable future, regardless of what I decide to do. But the head family of the seven families having no direct descendant… that must indeed be problematic.

Which brings us to the discussion about me.

“We understand that given Theodore’s position, he cannot leave Verdgar. With that in mind, if we may express our hope, we’d like to eventually welcome a direct descendant of yours as the Wilcloud family head…”

“I see… That’s certainly not something too early to discuss.”

This involves not just me, but the future of my children as well.

“…Indeed. We don’t want to force someone unwilling, nor separate young children from their parents just because they’re successors. Of course, if they have the will and talent, we couldn’t ask for more.”

…That’s true. Considering the nature of the Sages’ Academy, not just any direct descendant will do. While it’s a long-term matter, we need to start thinking about it now.

The premise is having someone who properly understands and is determined to correctly inherit the ancient policies and values of the Wilcloud family and the other six families. If they also have the talent to use magical power circulation, that would be ideal…

And of course, that naturally involves education from the early stages. No one can predict who will have aptitude.

“Understood. I’ll consider it.”

“My apologies for having to bring this up with you now. It shows our inadequacy…”

“Not at all. This also concerns my mother’s family home.”

“I appreciate you saying that.”

So, that should cover matters regarding me?

“Indeed… I’m glad we’ve reached understanding. Next—”

King Melvin turned his gaze toward Elliot.

“Elliot. This concerns you.”

“I’m listening.”

As Elliot straightened his posture, King Melvin nodded.

“Indeed. Actually, after discussions with Eberhart, we’ve decided to form a joint operational unit against demons from both Verdgar and Silvatoria to assist Theodore. They’ll undergo training assuming combat against demons, including aerial battles. I want to appoint you as that unit’s commander.”

“Me, sir?”

“Exactly. I’ve heard you have experience leading soldiers in monster extermination within Silvatoria. Additionally, this decision considers your capabilities, connections in both countries, and familiarity with Theodore’s circumstances.”

“From Silvatoria’s side, it’s already been decided that Elmer and others from Marquis Zilbolt’s subordinates will be assigned.”

“Indeed. After you’ve achieved merits, I plan to raise the Silun barony’s rank and grant Elliot territory in the north. With this promise, even if someone emerges later to support Elliot, it shouldn’t cause confusion in the Silun barony.”

Hmm. …For example, if Ashley’s rank were raised to viscount or count. Then Ashley, as the head, could transfer the original baron rank of the Silun family to Elliot. Since ranks come with territories, he could eventually govern the north.

The aim is likely to create that path by having him achieve merits as the operational unit leader and gain accomplishments worthy of nobility.

From King Melvin’s perspective, he can establish a noble close to the Verdgar royal family as a northern lord… And even if supporters of Elliot emerge in the Silun barony, since he’s promised to become a lord eventually, there’s no reason to cause trouble. They’ve really thought this through.

Elliot’s eyes widened, but he bowed deeply.

“Though lacking in talent, I will devote my full efforts.”

“Indeed. Then as of today, your status is under my direct command. I’ll contact the unit members separately, but officially from this moment, you’re now my personal knight. You may inform Donato and the others accordingly. If necessary, I’ll arrange for a residence in Termwills as well.”

“Yes! I’m deeply grateful for your repeated consideration!”

Elliot responded with the courtesy of a subordinate. Well, this should settle matters regarding the Silun barony.

Actually, regarding Elliot and Camilla, it seems like they might proceed all the way to marriage. His previously uncertain status is now confirmed, and with the concerns removed, there’s no reason not to.