Ch.87Preparation (2)

As I said before, a festival only truly becomes a festival when people are present. Proving this point, our territory became increasingly crowded with people as time passed.

Until just two weeks ago, our territory had been quiet to the point of silence, but now it was bustling with so many people that it resembled a decent-sized city. And this was before the exhibition had even begun.

At the same time, I couldn’t help but worry. While having tourists flood our territory might be good for now, the aftermath was the real concern.

As I’ve mentioned before, our territory has almost no distinctive features. Though the imperial family is providing various forms of support for the exhibition, that’s only a temporary effect.

Even if the exhibition ends successfully, I had concerns about the maintenance costs afterward and whether tourists would ever return, which left me worried on multiple fronts.

‘Thankfully many merchants have come, but still…’

Tomorrow the exhibition begins, and even more people have gathered than before. Not only humans but occasionally other races could be spotted, and numerous security officers had been deployed to maintain order.

The appearance of the territory had changed dramatically compared to before.

According to Rina, though it was hastily arranged, whether it was originally designed this way or the supervisor had good sense, it hardly looked rushed at all.

She had said they originally planned to develop the territory starting three years from now, so perhaps they simply moved that plan forward.

‘No major problems should arise.’

The imperial side had inspected the buildings not just once or twice but multiple times to prevent any accidents. I know they were especially meticulous about the inns where nobles and artists would be staying.

Many shops and other stores had also appeared. Originally, our territory only had shops selling basic goods, a clothing store, and a blacksmith, but after contracting with merchant groups, various branch stores had begun to appear.

Of course, as more people came and went, various problems emerged as well. Most notably, illegal street vendors.

Upon hearing news of the exhibition in our territory, they had arrived faster than anyone to set up stalls and make a profit.

While most vendors had properly contracted with my father, there are unscrupulous types everywhere.

True to his former knight background, my father would investigate as soon as a report of an illegal vendor came in and promptly expel them from the territory. Thanks to this, there were no stalls blocking the middle of the road and impeding traffic.

‘But street vendors in the medieval era…’

As I always feel, this world is a peculiar place. I alternated between watching the illegal vendors being removed and their angry protests before quickly turning my attention elsewhere.

There were more important matters piled up than the street vendors. While my parents were busy processing paperwork that came in like a tidal wave, I was occupied with greeting guests.

Starting with Marie’s family made things less burdensome, but after that, I had to face people I didn’t know at all.

I met nobles living in the Empire and even distinguished guests from other countries, creating tremendous tension. If I made a mistake here, it would not only reflect poorly on me but also tarnish my parents’ reputation.

Fortunately, since everyone had come because they loved the Biography of Xenon, things proceeded without any issues.

Moreover, most guests who arrived a day early had come from distant regions, so they spent the entire day resting at the inn.

However, not only nobles but also artists had arrived a day early for rehearsals.

“Pleased to meet you. I am Lirus Huzeman, conductor of the Lirus Orchestra.”

“I’m Issac Ducar Mayshall. It’s an honor to welcome the renowned Lirus Orchestra.”

It’s Mr. Pringles.

That was my first impression upon meeting Lirus, the conductor of the Lirus Orchestra.

His head was completely bald and even reflected sunlight, but his mustache was quite distinctive. He seemed both jovial and professional.

In any case, his first impression was perfect. Most renowned artists tend to be picky or arrogant, but Lirus was quite different.

As I had seen in his letter, Lirus was quite polite and humble, yet he exuded an undeniable charisma.

He had an appearance perfectly suited to being a “conductor,” and his neatly dressed formal attire radiated dignity.

“Your red hair is truly unique. And those eyes that shine like a beast’s as well.”

“Your mustache is impressive too, Mr. Lirus. It must be difficult to maintain.”

“Your speech is as blunt as your expression. But thank you. Few people appreciate this mustache, but you do.”

Lirus gently pulled at his distinctive mustache with a satisfied smile. It seems he considers his mustache a sort of identity.

I muttered to myself that his personality was as unique as his appearance, but since I had stated a simple fact, I didn’t say anything more. Indeed, maintaining such a mustache would require considerable effort and dedication.

I stared at Mr. Pring—no, Lirus sitting across from me before quietly speaking.

“Are you satisfied with the stage? As you know, it was hastily constructed, so there may be many shortcomings.”

“Not at all. In fact, it doesn’t look hastily made at all. Of course, it differs from the stages in the Kingdom of Teres, but that’s because they had time. If the Empire of Minerva had had time, they could have built an even more splendid stage.”

As Lirus said, if the Empire had had enough time, they would have built a much more magnificent stage. The problem was that the Kingdom of Teres had dumped the exhibition on them out of spite.

Still, it was fortunate for both me and the Empire that he liked it. However, concerns remained.

“What do you think about holding the exhibition like a festival?”

“That’s not a problem either. What could be more festive than gathering people who love the Biography of Xenon to enjoy it together? And looking at the schedule, you’ll be showing paintings and sculptures during the day and we’ll perform in the evening. It seems the plan has been well-coordinated.”

Mr. Pring—no, Lirus kept saying embarrassing things. Thanks to him, I could breathe a sigh of relief.

But while the Lirus Orchestra might feel this way, other artists might think differently.

I’d heard that the Matrix Troupe in particular had high pride, given their reputation for spectacular productions. Not just the Matrix Troupe, but artists in general tend to have high self-esteem.

“I’m glad you’re satisfied, which is reassuring for us. If there’s anything uncomfortable, we’ll address it immediately.”

“Well… rather than uncomfortable, there’s one thing that concerns me.”

“What is it?”

When I asked with slight tension, Lirus opened his mouth with a regretful expression.

“I wonder if Xenon will really come to see our performance.”

“…”

“Although the publisher said he would attend, it’s not certain, is it? Perhaps unavoidable circumstances might arise.”

Mr. Pringles is right in front of you. I could only give a bitter smile hearing his words.

But his next statement turned my bitter smile into curiosity.

“Above all, there’s a performance I want to show Xenon. Even the Matrix Troupe gladly agreed, which makes it more disappointing.”

“A performance you want to show?”

“Yes. I can assure you, it will be a perfect performance for fans of the Biography of Xenon.”

What kind of performance have these perverts—no, these people created to be so confident?

Since artists throughout history have had somewhat perverse tendencies, I couldn’t help but be curious.

I looked at Lirus with bright eyes and subtly probed.

“Can you give me a hint?”

“That’s not possible. It wouldn’t be fun if you knew in advance. I’ll only tell you that we’ve rehearsed with the Matrix Troupe several times before departing to create a perfect performance.”

It seems to be some kind of collaboration.

I was looking forward to seeing a performance created by two world-renowned masters coming together.

“I understand. You must be tired from your long journey, so please rest well.”

“Thank you for your hospitality. If possible, I’d like to see this territory transformed into a cultural city. Then we wouldn’t need to travel around everywhere.”

“I’ll consider it. Actually, I’m not without ambition myself.”

“Hahaha. A street for Xenon… As a fellow artist, I’m jealous, but as a fan, I’m looking forward to it.”

Afterward, Lirus left, saying he hoped I would enjoy his performance. It was natural to develop a liking for him, given his humble attitude until the very end.

‘But a collaboration…’

I wonder what kind of performance the artists will show. And it’s a collaboration with the Matrix Troupe, known as the ultimate masters of production.

Although it might be unreasonable to compare it with movies from my previous life, I’m slightly excited given how confident they are.

I escorted Lirus back to the inn reserved for nobles and artists before returning to the mansion.

Not only Lirus, but there are still others to welcome. The Matrix Troupe should arrive soon, so I want to prepare in advance.

‘The real VIPs will visit tomorrow…’

Distinguished guests of duke rank or higher have already arrived at the imperial palace in the capital. They will stay at the palace and then travel to our territory by carriage when the time comes.

By now, Leort and Rina are probably dealing with them. Perhaps Cecilly is with them too.

Just as I was about to enter the mansion…

“Issac!”

“Huh?”

A familiar male voice reached my ears. A very welcome voice to me.

Turning my head in surprise, I saw a man slowly walking toward me from the main gate I had just passed through.

With red hair like my father’s and striking golden eyes, he was a handsome man with an overall cheerful appearance.

It was Dave, my older brother, who I’d heard had joined the Navy Knights a few months ago and was in training.

“Dave? Is that really you?”

“Hey, how long has it been? You seem to have grown taller since I last saw you.”

When I expressed surprise, Dave gave a cheerful smile and patted my head. I was so stunned by the unexpected situation that I stared at his face.

In terms of appearance, nothing had changed, but being a soldier, his skin was quite tanned from training under the sun.

Also, his short-sleeved shirt revealed small scars on his arms, and his physique seemed slightly larger than before.

“Are you on leave? I thought you were in training?”

“That’s normally the case, but for some reason, the vice-captain sent me here. I think it’s because of the exhibition being held in our territory. I heard orders came down from the imperial family, but I’m not sure.”

“…”

I can guess whose influence was behind this. Still, I’m glad to see Dave.

I had been disappointed that Dave wouldn’t be able to see the exhibition, but someone had timely given us this gift. I should express my gratitude soon.

“How’s the training?”

“Don’t even ask. Thanks to it, I’ve deeply realized how amazing Father is. Have you ever fought for a month straight without sleeping or eating properly?”

“How could a human do that? Even elves would find it extremely difficult.”

“Exactly. But somehow, with sheer willpower, it’s possible. Is Father inside now?”

“Buried under a pile of documents.”

“Father’s working hard too. Oh, right, Issac. Do you happen to be acquainted with the Princess of Helium?”

“Huh?”

I opened my eyes wide at Dave’s question. Had he met Cecilly before coming to the mansion? Otherwise, there would be no reason for him to ask such a question.

When I expressed my confusion with wide eyes, Dave explained what had just happened.

“Before coming to the mansion, someone called your name while looking at me. But I thought our red hair isn’t that common, right? So I looked at her face, and it was the Princess of Helium.”

“Where did you meet her?”

“At the entrance to the territory. But she didn’t seem to arrive by carriage, but on foot. With her bodyguard.”

“Huh? How?”

“She probably used magic. The direction I first heard her voice was from above.”

Well, being a demon race who can use magic as easily as breathing, she wouldn’t necessarily need a carriage. Still, it was surprising that she came directly to our territory rather than the capital.

‘I should visit her later.’

She’s probably staying at the noble-exclusive inn by now. Just as I was thinking this…

“Anyway, what’s your relationship with the Princess of Helium? The way she called your name seemed unusual.”

“We’re just close friends.”

“Hmm… she seemed too happy to see you for just a friend…”

Dave muttered quietly while looking at me. Deep suspicion was evident in his golden eyes that shone brilliantly like mine.

I don’t know exactly how Cecilly reacted, but judging by Dave’s response, she must have been extremely excited. From the perspective of an uninvolved third party, it would be suspicious.

‘I hope I’m not being branded as a playboy.’

I deliberately avoided his gaze and changed the subject. Dave would soon learn that I have a girlfriend once we entered the mansion.

“By the way, are your seniors nice? I’ve heard that places like the Navy Knights have many mischievous people.”

“Don’t even mention it. They tease me at every opportunity because I’m an apprentice. They even asked if I’d forgotten my sword and told me to go buy one at the blacksmith…”

“…”

That’s a repertoire I’ve heard many times before.

In my previous life, such absurdities had mostly disappeared by the time I enlisted, but I remember seeing them often on the internet.

I suppose in an army without computers, let alone televisions, such absurdities would be much more prevalent than in my previous life.

Well, in the case of the Navy Knights, they engage in battle almost daily, so they probably don’t have time for such absurdities.

Instead of causing trouble, they’d focus on building their bodies to avoid death.

“And recently, there’s been a rumor that a young lady from one of the affiliated families made an outrageous statement. The atmosphere has been quite bad because of it.”

“An outrageous statement?”

“Yes. She supposedly said soldiers are just beasts guarding homes. Fortunately, she wasn’t expelled from her family, but she must be suffering greatly now. They put her in a knight training facility, not just a regular training camp.”

Without needing to investigate, I’m 100% certain it’s Aira. She brought it upon herself, and I inwardly chuckled at the satisfying thought.

A knight training facility is not just for training ordinary soldiers. Not only is the training period much longer, but the intensity is also notoriously brutal.

Normally, talented individuals are selected from general training camps and sent to knight training facilities, but it seems Aira’s family forced her in.

Moreover, they must have instructed the facility to completely reform her mindset, so her bleak future is predictable.

“That’s unfortunate. Was there any impact on you?”

“We’re too busy guarding the border to worry about such things. Fortunately, there’s been almost no activity from elven scouts or monsters, so it’s relatively relaxed.”

“When does your leave end?”

“Three days and four nights. My seniors call it a ‘3.4-second leave,’ but surely it can’t be that short? Tomorrow is the exhibition, so time will pass quickly, but I should be able to enjoy it fully.”

“Hmm… Do they have the Biography of Xenon in the knights’ order?”

“Of course they do. Places where people live are all the same.”

I returned to the mansion with Dave, unpacking all the stories we hadn’t been able to share.

Thanks to him, I had a feeling the exhibition would be even more enjoyable.

*****

“So this is his mansion.”

Right after Issac and Dave entered the mansion, someone was looking down at them from the blue-filled sky—it was Cecilly, the Princess of Helium.

If she were human, people would be astonished to see Cecilly standing proudly in the sky, but she was of the demon race. Along with elves, they are said to be blessed with magic.

Using magic to move through the sky is basic for her, and she can even use teleportation to traverse between spaces, so this is child’s play.

‘The brothers look similar yet subtly different.’

Even from the high heavens looking down at the mansion, Cecilly could see everything as if it were right in front of her. Not only does she have superior vision as a demon race, but this is also easy with magic.

‘I should have just gone to the mansion with them…’

Cecilly regretted watching the brothers enter the mansion. At the territory entrance, she had mistaken Dave for Issac because of his red hair, and when she realized her mistake, she fled back to the sky out of embarrassment.

But thinking about it now, it was an opportunity to enter the mansion with Dave, which she had thrown away. As someone who had been eagerly waiting for such a chance, she couldn’t help but feel regretful.

The one fortunate thing was that she was wearing her outdoor clothes when she met Dave. If it had been the dress for the exhibition, this regretful feeling would have been even deeper.

She wished Issac would be the first to see the dress she would wear to the exhibition. Just imagining him blushing and being embarrassed like at the freshman event made her heart flutter.

“…Princess?”

While Cecilly was thinking about Issac, a man quietly called to her from beside her. He was also of the demon race, and while Cecilly had horns protruding upward, he had horn-like structures resembling those of a sheep.

His appearance was typical of the demon race, with pitch-black hair and red eyes, but he wore a black mask, making it difficult to discern his detailed features. Still, judging by his visible appearance, he was quite handsome.

His name was Gartz Balack, a member of the “Reaper” who had been appointed as Cecilly’s bodyguard.

Being of the demon race, Gartz was also proficient in magic and could stand in the sky like Cecilly.

“Please wait a moment, Sir Balack. I need to check something.”

“…”

Gartz silently waited at Cecilly’s instruction without saying a word. However, he couldn’t help but feel puzzled.

From her running happily toward the red-haired man (though it was a mistake) to now watching from the sky—

As a member of the Reaper, it’s a basic principle to exclude the personal affairs of royalty, but Cecilly’s behavior today was enough to raise suspicions.

Cecilly had usually shown almost no interest in men, but she was displaying deep curiosity and interest in this red-haired man. Even as a Reaper member, he couldn’t help but be curious.

‘It looks like an ordinary mansion on the outside…’

While basic protective magic was in place around the mansion, it was meaningless to Gartz. After all, it was set up by humans, so he was confident he could easily break through.

But there was something different about the energy felt from inside the mansion. Despite being concealed, a powerful force was proudly guarding the mansion.

While Gartz was staring at the mansion with a bland yet curious gaze, Cecilly was thoroughly examining the mansion with her scrying magic.

Naturally, her gaze was fixed on Issac, but she soon had to twitch her lower eyelid.

‘…Marie is here too.’

Somehow, Marie had already arrived at the mansion. Given that the exhibition starts tomorrow and she’s staying at the mansion rather than the noble-exclusive inn, it seemed she was trying to establish a fait accompli.

At this thought, Cecilly clenched her fist. She was the first to take interest in him, and she was the first to notice his identity.

But she had made a mistake without realizing her own feelings. If she had approached slowly without getting excited… things might have been different.

Even if Issac found her burdensome, it wouldn’t matter. She wouldn’t mind saying she wished he would see her for herself, not as the author of the Biography of Xenon.

Issac is the author of the Biography of Xenon, and the author of the Biography of Xenon is Issac—what’s the problem? These are all meaningless words.

‘If only I could turn back time…’

Cecilly bit her lip as she vividly watched Issac and Marie secretly embracing.

Perhaps because her “evil cycle” was approaching, she could feel a sinister desire creeping up in her heart.

‘Just a little… let me endure just a little longer. And now…’

After barely suppressing her desire, she thoroughly searched the mansion’s interior with her scrying magic. While it’s impossible to see it like a cross-section, she could at least confirm the structure of the rooms.

Eventually, she was able to identify what she presumed to be Issac’s room. How could she be sure? Because it had far more bookshelves than the other rooms.

She already knew that Issac was a bookworm. And that he not only liked history but loved it.

‘And there…’

The original manuscripts of the Biography of Xenon, except for the first volume, were resting there. For the demon race, these manuscripts were beyond treasures—they were like sacred relics.

However, the level of protective magic laid on the mansion was too inadequate. While it might stop humans, other races like elves or demons could easily infiltrate.

Moreover, with the exhibition starting in the Mayshall territory, there would surely be villains harboring suspicions and causing trouble. Of course, the Empire would prevent this in advance, but it was still concerning.

If all the manuscripts were stolen from here… Issac might not just be disappointed but could fall into despair. And he might even discontinue the Biography of Xenon.

That must be prevented. Cecilly firmly resolved and called to Gartz, who was quietly waiting beside her.

“Sir Balack.”

“Yes, Princess. Please give your orders.”

“Look at the room on the right side of the second floor with your scrying magic. It has more bookshelves than the other rooms, so it should be easy to distinguish. Nod if you’ve confirmed it.”

“I have confirmed it.”

“We will enter the mansion shortly. And the moment we enter that room, install detection magic. So we can immediately notice if anyone intrudes.”

“Understood.”

Gartz inwardly wanted to ask why, but he suppressed the question. He was merely a sword that followed the orders of royalty.

Cecilly smiled with satisfaction at the loyal Gartz’s response. Indeed, he was a Reaper with patience several times stronger than the average demon.

“Ah, and did you bring that?”

“If you mean the book containing the history of our demon race, I have brought it.”

“Good. Then…”

Cecilly smiled brightly and pointed toward the mansion’s main gate.

“Let’s prepare to make an official visit now.”

“Yes, Princess.”

The guests were beginning to gather.