Chapter 228

TL: TangSanFan

ED/PR: Tanthus

To Those Who Survived (3)

"I'm going to sneak into Triss Hall to peruse the Sage's Encrypted Letters."

The scripture of the great sage Sylvania, which had not yet been half deciphered, is known as the Sage's Encrypted Letters. This mysterious book is filled with all sorts of writings on celestial magic, magical engravings etched in runes, and bizarre contents in an indiscernible foreign language.

In practice, this book akin to a treasure of Sylvania Academy had often been at the center of various mishaps.

There was a record of senior professor Glast stealing it and fleeing, and due to chronic financial difficulties, it once even passed into actual ownership of Elte Trading.

During the last recapture of Elte Trading, Lortelle negotiated to return the Sage's Encrypted Letters to the academy, ensuring it made its way back to the treasure vault of Triss Hall...

"I just want to go through its contents once. But no matter how many requests I submit, Principal Obell won't meet me. Of course... it's understandable. It's unlikely they would allow a mere student to look at a treasured artifact of the school, already notorious for theft.."

"So, you're planning to steal it again?"

"It's not stealing, it's borrowing, just for a moment."

Aila's face was so nonchalant that it left me feeling a sense of dissonance.

The setting is the student plaza where the royal orchestra is performing. Though the heat of the day hasn't fully arrived with the sun high in the sky, today is certainly the last day of the festival.

It's the day when the festival is celebrated most grandly, with everyone gathering at the central plaza for the closing ceremony.

I thought I might take it easy for once on this last day, so I sat on a bench in the plaza to enjoy the late spring weather.

That only meant sipping a drink and letting the breeze cool me down, but considering my recent busyness, these small moments of leisure were precious to me.

"If only you had come a month earlier, I could have asked Lortelle to let me peruse it."

"That's true... At that time, the letters were still in senior Lortelle's possession... But back then, we did not realize the gravity of the situation, it's unavoidable."

The Sage's Encrypted Letters had already shifted to the academy's possession. Lortelle had used it as a bargaining chip to take back control of the trading force.

"So... while the festival reaches its peak tonight, you're planning to slip into Triss Hall... But, senior Ed. What is all this...?"

While we were having our serious talk, Aila, unable to contain her curiosity, questioned me about the pile of gift boxes on the bench table.

"This... has the imperial crest on it..."

"Oh, this... it's nothing much, just things Princess Sella sent, saying that they might be useful during my time at the academy."

"Princess Sella...? Senior Ed, you have connections with Princess Sella as well as Princess Phoenia?"

"I did make a connection this time... But, I'm not sure it's a good one."

Aila's eyes widened in disbelief upon seeing gifts from the royal house heaped on the table.

'I was aware of Ed Rothtaylor's extensive connections, yet I hadn't expected him to have dealings with the frosty Princess Sella as well.'

"Then why is senior Yenika...?"

"She is... just don't pay her any mind."

Yenika, who was meant to wander the festival stalls with us, lay collapsed with her face buried in the table amidst the gift boxes.

For me, taking some rest was all that mattered; there was no need for me to roam around. I was merely keeping Yenika company as her energy drained.

Speaking softly, so Yenika couldn't hear, I said,

"She's been betrayed by her parents recently."

"You mean Senior Yenika has such a gloomy family background?!"

"Hmm... It's not quite that dark, really..."

Yenika's parents, Kadan and Silla, had been thoroughly brainwashed by Lortelle during the remainder of the festival.

It may not be appropriate to call it brainwashing exactly; they had simply been swayed by Lortelle's natural eloquence and shrewdness, becoming fervent supporters of Elte Trading.

Watching them endlessly discuss Elte Trading's business plans, Phulanshan region's development, and their neighbours' life improvements, clapping vigorously, it's clear that Yenika's spirit is gradually being worn down.

While Yenika seems a kindly girl, she becomes particularly stubborn in Lortelle's presence.

Generous enough to effortlessly give up the top student position, she is unwilling to yield even a single word to Lortelle.

But since she is not the type to be angry with her parents, she lies there sulking and repeating Lortelle's name to herself.

As often said, Lortelle, who can manipulate even the slyest of elder merchants, would find convincing a simple countryside couple to be no challenge at all.

However, watching her lure a rival's family into her fold and engage in such mind games is quite a chilling sight from the sideline.

"Ugh... Ed... Suddenly my mom and dad started talking about sheep's wool distribution or the future trends of the stock market... They used to only ever worry about the cows at the ranch..."

"......"

She looks like the child of a household head who's been roped into a pyramid scheme. I nearly teared up, but the situation is, in fact, better than that. At least Kadan and Silla are planning a robust future, aren't they?

Just that the involvement of Elte Trading is a bitter pill for Yenika to swallow.

"It's too much! It's crossing the line for them to even get involved with my parents!"

"Crossing the line... Your parents haven't been harmed in any way. If anything, they've received help..."

"Do you think everything in life comes down to money?! Why does Lortelle always act this way!"

"Sadly, money does get you almost everything... Aren't you realizing that right now...?"

"... I just might run away from home if this keeps up."

Technically, isn't she already a runaway? Hasn't it been a while since she last went home?

... I refrained from tripping over that point. After all, Yenika simply isn't the type to be at odds with her parents from the start.

"I feel like I'm going through puberty, Ed."

"People usually don't declare they're in puberty..."

"No, I am in puberty. If I go home now, I won't help out with the ranch work at all. Hmm... But I do enjoy harvesting the herbs from the vegetable garden, so I'll keep doing that... But I absolutely won't do the hard, grueling tasks. Although, when it's about herding the free-ranging cows back into the pen at dusk, I should help with that. It's much more efficient with more people.... Yet, I won't help with cleaning up manure or milking cows. Or maybe I should assist with milking to meet delivery dates. So maybe I should sleep in instead of sweeping the front yard... Yeah, I'm not going to fold the laundry or tidy up my bedsheets... let them see...!"

Even the most rebellious don't rebel in quite such a concerted, constructive manner.

"Then, I better start making a list of what I will and won't do."

"And what's that for?"

"I'm planning to sort out the ranch schedule for the holidays, to determine up to what extent I'll help and from which point I can indulge in laziness, to firmly establish my rebellious stance. Falling for Lortelle's charms, even mom and dad... they'll regret it...."

She would be the only one to rebel so industriously and constructively.

Considering Kadan and Silla's nature, they would most likely shrug it off, barely bothered to see their daughter sprawl out at home during the holidays.

I couldn't bring myself to offer even words of encouragement, envisaging all too clearly her future once she graduates, donning her title as Baroness and solo managing the outskirts of the Rothtaylor territory... Her only concern still being the mundane ranch tasks, it made me anxious. But considering it's Yenika's way, it somehow even feels reassuring.

I let Yenika mutter on as if casting a spell, and with a deep sigh, I turned my attention back to Aila.

"Well, there's no need to risk stealing the Sage's Encrypted Letters. Speaking with Lortelle or Princess Phoenia, and negotiating well with the academy, you might be able to gain access. Seeking my advice was a wise decision."

"But that would take too much time."

"It would, but it's certainly less risky than being caught sneaking a peek."

"Senior Ed. Considering the unpredictable timing of your prophecy's fulfillment, I don't want to leave any uncertainties lingering for too long. Above all, Taely's life hangs in the balance. I don't want any half-measures when it comes to risks that could befall Taely."

No need to rush like this... would be my advice, but I'm not exactly in a position to relax either. On this point, Aila had her reasons.

"It could take a week, a month, or even a semester if we go through official channels."

"That's definitely valid, Aila."

"I'm going to sneak into Triss Hall during the festival tonight when everyone's preoccupied. In the meantime, I'd appreciate if you could draw attention away from me. Preferably near Triss Hall."

"You're quite serious about this task."

"You're the one who convinced me of the seriousness of the situation, senior Ed."

Looking at Aila sitting composedly with a serious expression, I stroked my chin and nodded in agreement.

"No, I think you're also entitled to know this at this point."

"What? You still have something hidden?"

I pulled an old tome from my leather pouch and, to keep it from prying eyes, removed the cover I'd put on it and placed it on the table.

Aila glanced at the book's title with a bewildered look, sucking in her breath uncontrollably for a moment afterward. The reaction was delayed.

"An Introduction to Celestial Studies" — Author, Gluckt Eldain.

—Kwang!

Aila shot up from her seat, covering the book's cover, scanning the surroundings frantically.

Being somewhat knowledgeable about celestial studies, she understood the value of this book. So, the panic was evident, a question of whether it was appropriate.

"Wh-why do you have this... casually popping out of your pouch?"

"It's just... I had it with me."

"That's not something you 'just have'! This is... this is...!"

It's an unpublished work of the archmage Gluckt, unknown to the world.

Whether genuine or not could be discerned by the book's age, the handwriting, and the celestial magic emanating from it.

Although laypeople may not recognize it at a glance, Aila noticed it right away.

"I'll lend it to you."

"This, this isn't something that you can 'lend'!"

"Being made up of archmage Gluckt's research and also containing records of the great sage Sylvania to an extent... it should advance your research."

"......"

"And when you find time, come over to the camp so you can talk to Merilda. Make your own opportunities to visit. Bringing Taely along would be good too."

"Merilda, as in... the wolf spirit?"

I nodded in confirmation, silently acknowledging Aila's zeal.

He spoke of the encounter.

"It's a spirit that has actually met the Great Sage Sylvania. At this point, she's the only being that can remember that personage and is capable of communication."

"... Gasp."

Aila seemed to catch her breath at the revelation, nodding with great effort.

"Indeed, consulting with senior was the right answer."

"The fundamental problem remains unresolved though. The most important question is what was the true intention of the Great Sage Sylvania? The details surrounding the sealing of Bellbrook must also be clarified."

"For now, I'll find out everything I can within my abilities. However..."

Aila was adamant in her next words.

"Under no circumstances can Taely be put in danger."

"I can't assure that... Taely is fated to live through ordeals."

"......"

"Rather than placating you with empty lies, it's better to be clear like this from your perspective, right?"

"... That's true."

Aila, acknowledging my words, wore a sorrowful expression. It couldn't be helped.

"So, we'll move tonight? Let's discuss the specifics of the plan."

* * *

As the evening approached, preparations began for the grand finale of the festival.

The faculty assistants were busily darting around setting up the stage, while the student council members started checking the attendees.

The culmination of the event would be the speeches from esteemed guests at the central square, followed by a grand performance and then a fireworks display against the night sky, marking the end of the Crestol Festival.

Given the magnitude of the event, with famous orchestras arriving and various notable imperial figures attending, including the sight of the Saintess and imperial princesses, anticipation was high among all the students. It was an extravagance hardly fitting for a mere academy festival—a lifetime event.

Before heading to the faculty area, I packed various equipment and tools from the camp. Since the faculty and camp were some distance apart, I took advantage of arriving early and having some spare time.

Yenika was busy with the Spirit Association, Lortelle was caught up with the peak season of the merchant guild, and there was no telling where Lucy had gone, leaving the camp quite empty.

"Huff..."

The day had faded to night, stars now at play in the sky.

Given the bulk of students were gathering at the central square, the paths leading to and from the camp were tranquil.

The camp, devoid of anyone, exuded a solitary air. This quiet state was the norm when I first fought to survive here, but recently, with more temporary dwellers and visitors, such quiet times have come to feel unusual.

Reflecting upon it brought a profound sense of life's progression. This camp had now become my home.

The thought of leaving this camp upon graduation felt oppressively heavy—it was akin to my heartfelt homeland.

Setting aside those sentimental thoughts, I gathered a dagger and arcane tools.

When I emerged from the cabin, someone was sitting by the campfire. I hadn't been inside for long and was puzzled by the occurrence.

"Oh, Master Ed. Have you just arrived?"

The robust muscles and hearty physique were familiar. It was Yenika's father, Kadan Faelover.

"Why have you come to the camp when the final event is about to happen at the central stage?"

"Kahaha. Naturally, I should be going to the event. But thinking about 'the last event' put me in a strange mood. The festival is coming to an end, and Silla and I will be heading back home early tomorrow morning... So in a way, today is the last, isn't it?"

Kadan seemed as if he had just arrived and settled by the fire, leaves and debris of the forest adorning his frame.

As he shook them off, Kadan poured himself a drink from the liquor he brought.

"Something just struck me to have my last drink here at your camp. While I was at it, I thought it would be good to see your face one last time."

"And your wife?"

"Silla went towards the central stage with Yenika. I will be following shortly."

There seemed to be no particular reason for him to leave the festivities and come to the camp.

In due course, Kadan's subsequent actions revealed his intent.

"Would you care for a drink?"

"I don't drink."

"Aigo, Silla will be pleased. That woman prefers men who don't drink—wonder why she married me."

In essence, Kadan had come to see my face one last time.

Without his family involved, just man to man.

I sat across the campfire from him, and after a brief deliberation, accepted the mug he offered.

"No need to accompany me. I will drink just fine on my own. Kahahat."

"No. Since it's our last time seeing each other..."

"Is that so. Haha, how magnanimous of you to cater to such an uneducated fellow."

Soon, while gulping down his drink, Kadan burst out laughing and then exhaled heavily. Wiping his mouth with his muscular forearm, he gave a sly smile.

"Let me offer my thanks one last time. I came by to tell you."

"I haven't done anything significant enough to deserve thanks. I have needed Yenika's help more."

"Still, I have received, and I acknowledge that. Guk- Oh, I apologize."

Kadan burped amidst conversation and jovially excused himself.

"An ignorant man like me is blessed with an extraordinary wife and daughter. When I was young, I lived for my strength, and as I aged, I lived for raising cattle. Before I knew it, my life had reached its turning point."

Unlike his usual boisterous tone, there was a significant drop in the vibrancy of his voice.

"To be frank, I haven't lived with lofty goals and high ideals like Master Ed or others of esteemed nobility. My head was so thick that it took me a long time to learn to read as an adult. It's been a third-rate life, but haven't I accomplished enough? My wife is Silla, and my daughter is Yenika."

"That's a successful life indeed."

"Exactly. Since those two are my greatest achievements, I cherish them greatly."

Twirling his cup, Kadan, satisfied, continued.

"And me, Kadan, I know my place well. I come from humble peasant stock, uneducated, only skilled in brute labor, a fool. Therefore, I don't oppose those of higher standing, always loyal to my superiors. As for Master Ed, it's all the same. With so much received, it's loyalty upon loyalty. Heh."

"It's pressuring to hear things put that way."

"Why would you feel burdened by that? No need. I have no pride. I just go with the flow~"

Sipping the alcohol, he added,

"However, anyone who makes my daughter cry won't get off easily."

Yet, Kadan had a firm resolve of his own.

I could sense it, even vaguely.

"Even as I vie to survive, I'm prepared to bow before a merchant lad decades my junior... but if my family is harmed, I won't hesitate for even a second."

I held the mug silently for a moment, then smiled faintly as I spoke.

"For someone with such principles, you seem quite fond of Lortelle, whom Yenika vehemently despises..."

"Well, having a rival in one's youth can often be a good stimulus."

"... You are more open-minded than I expected."

"From the start, I could tell Lortelle was someone who knew her boundaries. Besides... a sudden thought occurred to me."

Reflecting on the past few days, Kadan spoke in a nostalgic tone.

"Watching Yenika drag us around, trying to hide the truth, it struck me. So many secrets have been kept while living apart. Things she doesn't want to share, problems she wants to handle herself..."

"......"

"She has grown up."

Kadan and Silla had always known. Yenika had kept many secrets from her family during her school life.

"Seemed like just yesterday she was tumbling through the pastures, crying as she scraped her knees. Now she's commanding spirits as large as houses, what would you think?"

"I can't quite imagine it."

"To be honest, it doesn't feel all that extraordinary. It's more like 'how did she grow up so fast? Is this even a normal pace?' I'm not overly sentimental, so that's about as far as it goes."

With a chuckle, Kadan took another sip of his drink.

Then, rising from his seat, he suddenly knelt down, touching the ground and deeply bowed his head.

Startled by the abrupt gesture, I remained silent until Kadan spoke first.

"My daughter lacks in many areas."

Simply wishing to convey that, Kadan had traversed the northern forest alone to come to this camp.

"Please assist her greatly. There's not much left I can do for her."

Sensing the depth of meaning in his words, I closed my eyes briefly before answering.

"I receive far more help than I give. Please don't bow your head."

* * *

It seemed my conversation with Kadan had neatly wrapped things up regarding Yenika's family matters.

It hadn't been a grand affair, but meeting Yenika's parents was a quite special experience; they were undoubtedly Yenika's parents in every sense.

With that settled, it was time to focus on more pressing matters. My immediate concern was to aid Aila in examining the Sage's seal, and ultimately, to conclude the imperial succession struggle and vanquish Bellbrook.

After checking the equipment I'd prepared, I headed towards the faculty buildings. Following the event at the central square, my plan was to join Aila at the Triss facility.

However, plans have a way of not always following their intended course for reasons unknown.

"Emperor Clorel has summoned you."

Recently, I've come to recognize him from a distance without mistake.

Dest, the head steward of Sella's entourage, stopped me on my way to the central square and with a lowered head, he announced.

"It seems likely... that the contents of the letters sent by Princess Sella thus far have reached Emperor Kloeil's ears."

"... What?"

Surfacing in my thoughts was Emperor Clorel's satisfied look post-duel—the gaze akin to finding a treasure.

"That... to the reception room, Master Ed, you are summoned. This is... an imperial command."