I walk towards Emilia's room to spend time with both of them. After dinner, they decide to return to the room as they are completely captivated by the story.
"It's extremely interesting, and Betty reads with great beauty," Emilia smiles as Beatrice pulls her.
Both look radiant, and I am glad I went to that bookstore. I hope Helena is also fine; it is the least I can do for her.
I head to my room with the intention of resting, but before descending the stairs, I am stopped.
"Marco," Crusch calls, making me turn towards her.
She wears a feminine black dress with transparent parts that enhance her beauty. A perfect contrast to her loose green hair. It's a way of showing confidence, though even if I wanted to, I doubt I could do anything to her right now.
"Would you mind accompanying me for a chat?" Crusch smiles cordially, inviting me.
I nod without hesitation and follow her to a balcony where there's a small table decorated with a bottle of wine and two glasses.
"Would you like some?" Crusch asks as she pours wine into a glass.
"It's an honor to be served by someone like you," I smile, accepting the glass.
I appreciate the aroma of the wine, sensing its sweetness as I gently move the glass to analyze its consistency.
"This wine hails from the esteemed Karsten family," Crusch gazes at her glass, elegantly tilting the arm that cradles it, subtly encouraging me to follow suit.
Our glasses meet with a melodious clink, and I maintain a poised smile.
"Let us toast to the actions that have facilitated our acquaintance," I take a delicate sip, marveling at the exquisite sweetness of the wine.
It truly boasts an impeccable quality.
"It's intriguing how you refer to fate," Crusch takes another sip, relishing her drink with serene composure.
I shake my head in disagreement.
"Something like destiny does not exist; it was our actions, the deeds of every individual in this world, which have forged our encounter," I gaze directly into her eyes, smiling. "It was the collective will of each being in this vast world that has made our initial meeting possible, and, of course, this conversation here and now."
Taking another sip of the wine, I contemplate the radiant moon in the night sky, bathing us in its warm glow. "In my opinion, it's a beautiful way to perceive it. Much more meaningful than simply attributing it to destiny."
My words cause Crusch to pause for a moment.
She looks at me for a few seconds before smiling and sighing gently. "The collective effort...," Crusch briefly closes her eyes.
"I see... undoubtedly, that perspective proves much more rewarding."
I nod, assimilating her words while taking another sip of the wine.
"Is there a particular reason you wished to share this moment with me?" I inquire as I watch her meticulously contemplate her glass.
She fixes her gaze on mine, her eyes intense and unwavering.
"You said it yourself," Crusch responds confidently. "I want to get to know you better."
Her sharp yet beautiful eyes captivate me for a moment. The undeniable beauty of Crusch, especially emanating from her mature and intelligent aura, leaves an impression.
Somehow, I feel a connection with her, though that is not genuinely significant to me.
Gaining her trust and acquiring relevant information is what truly matters at this moment. I need to ascertain how much she knows about the history of Lugunica; being a Karsten, she must be aware of the hidden secrets behind the dragon's contract.
Surely, there is a deeper reason behind her selfish desire to break that pact.
"I understand... I suppose this occasion is fitting before facing a formidable beast," I sigh, smiling as I take another sip of the wine.
Crusch smiles as if my small, yet realistic jest has deeply pleased her.
"Even in the darkest moments, one can enjoy a good wine," she responds, her gaze lost in the moon.
For a moment, I sense a hint of nostalgia in her.
Crusch turns towards me, observing as if seeing something beyond my presence. I attempt to break the silence, but it seems Crusch is entangled in her thoughts.
"Crusch," I call to bring her back to reality.
"Apologies, I was lost in my own thoughts," she responds, taking another sip while gazing at the wine bottle.
"Is something the matter?" I inquire curiously.
"I simply recalled someone who resembles you, not exactly the same, but in your way of expressing yourself," Crusch remarks without divulging too many details. I lack much information about this, as I never delved deeply into it during my investigations into the novel. I'm unsure to whom or what she is referring.
After a brief moment, Crusch continues speaking.
"Marco, you're a peculiar individual," she asserts, staring at me intently.
"Well, that's a strange way to get to know someone," I comment with an ironic smile. She briefly smiles in return before returning to her serious expression.
"You remain calm even in the most precarious situations; you think so strategically as to manipulate the intentions of the wise, and you've faced one of the kingdom's strongest knights," she observes each word carefully.
"Well, Julius held back quite a bit," I respond modestly. If Julius had intended to kill me, I would surely have perished without a remedy. Who knows how many lives it would take to defeat him.
"That's not the important part; your goal was to showcase your strength to intimidate your enemies," Crusch asserts confidently. She hit the nail on the head, but it doesn't surprise me in the least.
"You have crafted the steam engine, the rifle, and cannons. Additionally, you are an exceptional merchant with vast knowledge across a wide range of subjects," Crusch continues, enumerating my achievements with admiration. "You are eloquent and composed; your magical talent is undeniable. Your contractor, Irlam, possesses a great spirit that has flourished under your leadership. Moreover, you have innovated revolutionary construction materials and forged a formidable army that has battled the witch cult."
I am left astounded by the impressive list of accomplishments she now mentions. So many things about me that I am unsure how to respond adequately to her words.
Crusch persists without pause, "You defeated an archbishop and several members of his entourage; your strategic skills are notable from what I have observed. You can engage in fluent conversations without succumbing to nervousness. You are insightful and possess an attractive physical appearance." Her eyes continue to penetrate mine deeply as she speaks. "If it were you vying for the throne... undoubtedly..."
My eyes widen in surprise at the avalanche of words escaping her lips. I am bewildered by the numerous qualities she highlights at this moment, so much so that I am left without knowing what to say.
However, I perfectly understand her underlying intention behind that previous question in the garden: In Crusch's eyes, I represent a latent threat that requires extreme caution.
"Fortunately, I feel that we could get along well," I smile, attempting to alleviate the tension in the air. "I may have my ambitions, but I am also capable of recognizing what surrounds me, and that is precisely what has allowed me to achieve so much."
I survey my surroundings, recognizing the yet unpolished stones. If Crusch and I were to form a duo in pursuit of the throne, I am confident that we could conquer much more than Lugunica.
"To be a king does not imply solitary rule," I calmly explain. "The Council of Sages wields immense power when it comes to political decisions."
This world is more intricate and political than it appears; even if the king makes decisions, they can easily be overruled by the wise.
I continue my argument:
"If we were to ascend the throne together, I can assure you that both of us could leverage it to fulfill your objectives. It would be like a political rebirth: a queen and a vice queen making joint decisions."
The queen's decisions would retain their significance above others, but at the same time, the other's opinions would not be underestimated.
This would complicate manipulation by the Council.
As I articulate my thoughts to Crusch, she falls into deep contemplation for a few seconds.
"The way you phrase it makes it sound like you've already considered this possibility," she comments as her eyes scrutinize mine more intensely.
I smile, confirming her suspicions.
Yes, though I may deviate from your expectations, which does not signify any danger to me.
After all, you haven't escaped mine.
"Each person has their approach to matters. I chose to forge an alliance with you because we share the same objective," I conclude my glass, pouring wine for both of us.
"In my perspective, this alliance will provide us the ease to attain what we desire.
The union of Emilia and Crusch, two women with similar ideals, may give rise to an indomitable force.
Certainly, I see it as a possibility.
"We will discuss this further after facing the White Whale," Crusch says with a coy smile, looking directly into my eyes. "If that means having you by my side..."
"It would be an unparalleled honor," I respond sincerely.
We continue imbibing and conversing about steam engines and industrial development. I omitted mentioning the steel production process, but I did speak about wrought iron, capturing her complete attention.
We reach an agreement to send all the iron extracted from her mines to our factory to be converted into ingots, only if the quality of wrought iron is verified.
If so, we will absorb their entire production, leaving them exclusively in charge of weapon manufacturing, under the condition of including the name "Irlam" in their distinctive brands.
After concluding the night, I retire to my room to rest fully, while Beatrice and Emilia remain peacefully engrossed in reading.
The next morning unfolds without notable incidents until the awaited moment arrives: the banquet preceding the attack, scheduled for tonight. The guests, all knights seeking glory or vengeance for their loved ones, are about to arrive.
Clad in my military attire, I stand before my soldiers, who await orders with discipline and determination.
"Soldiers, I hope you will give your utmost. Always maintain composure, and never forget to demonstrate your worth," I assert firmly.
"Yes, my general!" they exclaim in unison, executing a military salute.
After a few minutes, the majestic gates of the venue swing open, revealing a multitude of individuals—elderly knights adorned in imposing armor. All remain somber as the venue continues to fill with their presence.
For several minutes, I scrutinize each individual, sensing certain disdainful glances that at times intertwine with disapproval and murmurs upon seeing me.
Nevertheless, I maintain my smile, patiently awaiting Crusch to address the assembly.
Crusch ascends a platform, capturing the attention of all present. Following a brief introduction, she begins outlining the strategy, detailing the abilities of the White Whale and the risks we face.
"The White Whale is a formidable adversary, but thanks to the information gathered by the campaign of candidate Emilia, we have managed to formulate a strategy," Crusch explains, eliciting surprise and whispers among the assembly, some expressing disagreement with her words.
It appears that Crusch intends to make things unequivocal; I had thought she would take a more conciliatory approach.
"Now, it shall be the second in command, the general of Irlam's army, Marco Luz, who directs the strategy," proclaims Crusch firmly, pointing towards me and drawing all eyes upon me.
The tension in the atmosphere is palpable, yet I remain confident in my abilities. I disregard everyone else, smiling as I ascend the platform. Crusch and I exchange brief glances, understanding the implicit message within them.
I must prove my capability to lead them.
Standing tall before all, I direct my gaze towards the knights. The elders observe calmly, while the younger ones seem to abhor the idea of seeing me here.
Perhaps, it is simply envy motivating their reaction.
Hence, I need to take them by surprise.
I concentrate mana in my throat and, with strength and determination, exclaim:
"Attention!"
The murmurs and comments cease immediately, and all eyes focus on me, stunned by my call. Some look with annoyance, powerless against my position.
Beatrice ascends the platform and takes my hand, marking the beginning of my discourse. I commence explaining the strategy, and as I progress, I can perceive how the expressions of those present begin to change.
Before my plans, several countermeasures become apparent that cannot be ignored.
The dense mist surrounding us will significantly hinder any attempt at communication among us. Therefore, it will be crucial to take proper precautions to ensure our survival.
I elucidate the effects their abilities would have and make it clear that, in case they cannot endure the situation, they must obey the orders given to them.
"My objective is to minimize casualties, so everyone must follow my instructions, as well as those of Miss Crusch. If anyone has any objections..."
Some knights approach, demanding a reason why I should be the one to command them.
"It is true that you defeated an archbishop, but that is not sufficient to lead us, the knights," they assert with pride, though a certain fear is also evident in them.
The elder knights observe the situation with displeasure, while others seem satisfied with me as their commander, which comforts me.
The five knights continue with their comments, proclaiming that they are the true root of everything and that they had the right to choose their own commander.
But there comes a moment when I cease to pay them attention, exhausted by their senseless words.
"Betty," I call Beatrice by her nickname, and she releases my mana, filling the room with force.
The knights who had approached were the first to feel it, clutching their chests and kneeling instantly.
The elders remained standing, highlighting their resilience, while the rest wrestled with a blend of fear and resistance.
I channel my anger towards the youth before me, seeking to eliminate any hint of trouble.
"As the commander, I will not tolerate disrespect," I warn, aiming my rifle at one of them, causing him to gaze at me with terror. Perhaps they had witnessed my previous combat, adding an intriguing layer to the situation.
"You are relieved of duty for the impending attack. Your mission is to safeguard the borders. It is an order," I instruct them firmly.
They attempt to articulate a response, but I exert even more pressure on them. Releasing my strength, I direct it towards them, using mana to create a pressure zone that keeps them kneeling.
This is the last resort to maintain order, and although I would prefer not to resort to force, it is necessary to demonstrate my steadfastness as a commander to ensure group cohesion and protect all under my leadership.
With Beatrice by my side, I control the situation.
"This is not a joke. We must all collaborate; having individuals like them will only make us weaker," I release them, allowing them to desperately catch their breath.
With a single arm, I point to a shelf where an iron armor rests—the breastplate that constitutes the usual attire of knights.
Few possess steel armor due to the high costs involved, mostly reserved for royal knights with complete steel armor or prominent families, as is the case now.
A resounding "Bang!" resonates as the rifle effortlessly pierces through the armor, prompting those five youths to depart amidst accusatory glances from the others.
"We have our unique way of combat, combining our foremost skills and devising the most effective strategies," I remind them, seeking to reassure.
Yes, now was the moment to commence.
"While I draw breath, I pledge to bring forth the head of that whale!" I shout, raising my rifle and gazing at everyone with unwavering determination. "Let us embark on this hunt! Honor to our battle!"
Onlookers observe me in astonishment, but quickly, I sense determination resonating in each of them. I cast a glance at Emilia, who smiles approvingly, while Crusch stands beside her.
I will continue advancing, continually improving; as long as I retain strength, I will be unstoppable.
I shall devour this world, and none can hinder my path.
"Let us slay the white whale!" I proclaim fervently, feeling the spirit of combat ignite in every heart present.