Episode 50. Those Who Chase Renisha
Canary wasn't the only guest who came to Turiel.
Meteo, the Prince of Shamdir, had arrived late in the morning.
Even Turiel, who held all the information about high society in his grasp, hadn't expected this visit at all.
"I apologize for the late hour."
Meteo said solemnly.
Turiel, struck by his polite manners, accepted him.
The head butler of Turiel's mansion personally served tea to the late-night visitor.
Meteo, easing the early morning chill with a cup of tea, spoke.
"...While chasing Renisha, I came across Madame Turiel. That's why I've come to see you, despite the rudeness."
"Do you have something to tell me?"
"I came because I have a request to make. I needed someone I could trust. Can I trust Madame Turiel?"
"Since Lady Renisha saved my life, I will do anything as long as it doesn't harm her."
Turiel took out Renisha's card, which she had in her possession, and showed it to him.
The card, made of black mineral and engraved with Renisha's seal, was something Renisha had personally commissioned.
Renisha distributed it to those who worked for her as a mark of mutual recognition.
Meteo also recognized Renisha's seal engraved on Turiel's card.
"...I would like to request a knight. I don't mind even if he's a mercenary, as long as he's skilled with the sword."
"What's the matter?"
"I have a feeling the Emperor might have other plans. I'm heading to Hiloshine to see Lady Renisha."
"Do you have the Emperor's permission?"
"Yes. Still, I have some uneasy feelings."
That was why Meteo had postponed his departure and came to see Turiel.
Judging by the Emperor's mood, he seemed to be trying to attach someone to Meteo's back.
"If the knights I brought clash with the Hientri people, there will be trouble. However, if they are from the Empire..."
"Is there a reason you must go to Hiloshine?"
Even if Meteo and Shamdir were grateful to Renisha, she wondered why they would risk such a thing and go to Hiloshine.
"I am protecting Brixton and Haylin. That is why I am going to Hiloshine."
Clank.
Turiel suddenly stood up.
The chill shook the teacup that had been sitting quietly.
"Now...!"
Meteor's face was unfaltering.
Turiel's heart began to pound.
She had searched for Brixton and Haylin, but had yet to find them.
Cassius, she believed, had dispatched someone else.
However, no force had even found the hem of their clothes... There was a reason.
Shamdir had already hidden them.
"Are you two alright?"
"Yes, they're fine."
Turiel paced the drawing room.
He now fully understood why Meteo had absolutely had to come to see her.
Meteo was determined to ensure Brixton and Haylin's safe passage to Hiloshine, to Renisha's side. He was risking his own life.
The Emperor was a suspicious man, and he would undoubtedly try to find out if there was another reason for Meteor's trip to Hiloshine, and that would undoubtedly create controversy.
If done wrong, it could threaten Brixton and Haylin's lives.
This matter needed to be approached cautiously.
"...I will plan it. However, it seems it will take a little more time to prepare. Could you give me two days?"
"That seems fine."
Turiel nodded.
"Who else knew the Prince was leaving?"
"I didn't hide it because the group seemed likely to grow."
"Well done."
Turiel sat down and whispered quickly.
Now was not the time to be idly enjoying a nap.
"I think I have somewhere to go. Your Highness, please return and finish preparing for your departure. Make a big fuss. Make it seem like you have too much to take with you and can't leave yet. Buy some goods and get a new carriage. That will keep you from the Emperor's eyes for a little while. You can say you're preparing a gift for the youngest Princess."
"I will."
Meteo left, and Turiel followed suit, leaving the mansion.
Wearing a black hood, Turiel and the knights guarding her blended into the darkness.
The black horse carrying Turiel galloped at top speed, trampling through the dawn forest, trying to erase as many traces as possible.
A telegram arrived from the islands. Fortunately, the village's telegram office was still functioning, so there was no problem.
The village was bustling with activity thanks to the telegram office's bell ringing after a long time.
The telegram operator handed the postman a letter.
The postman, upon confirming the recipient, spoke.
"This must go to Lottera."
"I see, with Lottera's return, the village seems to be functioning, doesn't it?"
"So that's why Solein joined Lady Renisha's hand. He told us to actively cooperate with whatever she wishes."
"All the men in the village who seemed capable of exerting themselves flocked to the castle. And the women went to dig for ore, didn't they? My wife is chasing after them, hoe and basket in hand."
"Ore?"
“Why? The black ore that trips you up. They said they’d call it ether. Anyway, the Duchess said she’d pay you to mine it! Even Solein strongly recommends it, so why hesitate?”
“As expected, there must be a Lottera in Hiloshine.”
The men laughed and parted ways.
The letter in the postman’s hand reached Renisha without fail.
Renisha, who had been personally inspecting the mansion’s renovations with Lindy, received the letter.
It was from Turiel.
Turiel had taken over all of Renisha’s businesses.
She must be overseeing Renisha’s work in the islands, so seeing her and sending a letter like this, what could have happened?
Renisha’s brow furrowed.
Or perhaps it was reporting on the movements of the nobles residing in the islands.
However, the letter contained content that was clearly different from what Renisha had expected.
< Lady Renisha.
I am writing this letter to apologize for my mistake, even though it is late. >
It came in Turiel's name, but it was not from her, but from Canary.
"Haha."
Renisha let out a hollow laugh. Lindy made a puzzled expression.
Renisha wore a look that seemed both refreshing and bitter.
< I was arrogant. I have caused you worry and trouble, Lady Renisha, so I do not know how to apologize for this. I would like to apologize for everything that has happened. >
What on earth made Canary change her mind?
Canary was someone who had not received a proper education.
She judged most things based on fragments.
It was right to assume that Canary, having a child, would be revered by the nobles.
She wondered what kind of change in her heart had led her to write this letter.
< Lady Renisha, please spare me, even if it is for the sake of the child who has not yet seen the light of day. I will lie flat on the floor and live as an apology for my past sins. >
"You want me to spare you?"
Renisha's pink eyes were filled with murder.
Canary whispered vicious words into Laxus's ear, further alienating him from Lottera.
It would never be possible to say that Canary was not responsible for the deaths of the Duke and Duchess of Lottera.
Saving Renisha's life, after losing so much because of Canary?
Was she in her right mind?
She even doubted whether she truly trusted Renisha and entrusted her child and her life to her.
Even if Canary was a fool, she should be able to make rational decisions.
Otherwise, what had happened in the imperial family?
Had Laxus lost his mind and decided to kill the woman carrying his child?
Perhaps he believed the child would steal his throne.
"Duchess, you don't look well."
"No,"
Renisha replied softly.
The letter, drawn out in detail, was ultimately a plea for her life to be spared.
"Going to see Turiel."
For Canary, it was a lot of brainpower.
"What on earth did Laxus do?"
Canary wasn't the only guest who came to Turiel.
Meteo, the Prince of Shamdir, had arrived late in the morning.
Even Turiel, who held all the information about high society in his grasp, hadn't expected this visit at all.
"I apologize for the late hour."
Meteo said solemnly.
Turiel, struck by his polite manners, accepted him.
The head butler of Turiel's mansion personally served tea to the late-night visitor.
Meteo, easing the early morning chill with a cup of tea, spoke.
"...While chasing Renisha, I came across Madame Turiel. That's why I've come to see you, despite the rudeness."
"Do you have something to tell me?"
"I came because I have a request to make. I needed someone I could trust. Can I trust Madame Turiel?"
"Since Lady Renisha saved my life, I will do anything as long as it doesn't harm her."
Turiel took out Renisha's card, which she had in her possession, and showed it to him.
The card, made of black mineral and engraved with Renisha's seal, was something Renisha had personally commissioned.
Renisha distributed it to those who worked for her as a mark of mutual recognition.
Meteo also recognized Renisha's seal engraved on Turiel's card.
"...I would like to request a knight. I don't mind even if he's a mercenary, as long as he's skilled with the sword."
"What's the matter?"
"I have a feeling the Emperor might have other plans. I'm heading to Hiloshine to see Lady Renisha."
"Do you have the Emperor's permission?"
"Yes. Still, I have some uneasy feelings."
That was why Meteo had postponed his departure and came to see Turiel.
Judging by the Emperor's mood, he seemed to be trying to attach someone to Meteo's back.
"If the knights I brought clash with the Hientri people, there will be trouble. However, if they are from the Empire..."
"Is there a reason you must go to Hiloshine?"
Even if Meteo and Shamdir were grateful to Renisha, she wondered why they would risk such a thing and go to Hiloshine.
"I am protecting Brixton and Haylin. That is why I am going to Hiloshine."
Clank.
Turiel suddenly stood up.
The chill shook the teacup that had been sitting quietly.
"Now...!"
Meteor's face was unfaltering.
Turiel's heart began to pound.
She had searched for Brixton and Haylin, but had yet to find them.
Cassius, she believed, had dispatched someone else.
However, no force had even found the hem of their clothes... There was a reason.
Shamdir had already hidden them.
"Are you two alright?"
"Yes, they're fine."
Turiel paced the drawing room.
He now fully understood why Meteo had absolutely had to come to see her.
Meteo was determined to ensure Brixton and Haylin's safe passage to Hiloshine, to Renisha's side. He was risking his own life.
The Emperor was a suspicious man, and he would undoubtedly try to find out if there was another reason for Meteor's trip to Hiloshine, and that would undoubtedly create controversy.
If done wrong, it could threaten Brixton and Haylin's lives.
This matter needed to be approached cautiously.
"...I will plan it. However, it seems it will take a little more time to prepare. Could you give me two days?"
"That seems fine."
Turiel nodded.
"Who else knew the Prince was leaving?"
"I didn't hide it because the group seemed likely to grow."
"Well done."
Turiel sat down and whispered quickly.
Now was not the time to be idly enjoying a nap.
"I think I have somewhere to go. Your Highness, please return and finish preparing for your departure. Make a big fuss. Make it seem like you have too much to take with you and can't leave yet. Buy some goods and get a new carriage. That will keep you from the Emperor's eyes for a little while. You can say you're preparing a gift for the youngest Princess."
"I will."
Meteo left, and Turiel followed suit, leaving the mansion.
Wearing a black hood, Turiel and the knights guarding her blended into the darkness.
The black horse carrying Turiel galloped at top speed, trampling through the dawn forest, trying to erase as many traces as possible.
***
A telegram arrived from the islands. Fortunately, the village's telegram office was still functioning, so there was no problem.
The village was bustling with activity thanks to the telegram office's bell ringing after a long time.
The telegram operator handed the postman a letter.
The postman, upon confirming the recipient, spoke.
"This must go to Lottera."
"I see, with Lottera's return, the village seems to be functioning, doesn't it?"
"So that's why Solein joined Lady Renisha's hand. He told us to actively cooperate with whatever she wishes."
"All the men in the village who seemed capable of exerting themselves flocked to the castle. And the women went to dig for ore, didn't they? My wife is chasing after them, hoe and basket in hand."
"Ore?"
“Why? The black ore that trips you up. They said they’d call it ether. Anyway, the Duchess said she’d pay you to mine it! Even Solein strongly recommends it, so why hesitate?”
“As expected, there must be a Lottera in Hiloshine.”
The men laughed and parted ways.
The letter in the postman’s hand reached Renisha without fail.
***
Renisha, who had been personally inspecting the mansion’s renovations with Lindy, received the letter.
It was from Turiel.
Turiel had taken over all of Renisha’s businesses.
She must be overseeing Renisha’s work in the islands, so seeing her and sending a letter like this, what could have happened?
Renisha’s brow furrowed.
Or perhaps it was reporting on the movements of the nobles residing in the islands.
However, the letter contained content that was clearly different from what Renisha had expected.
< Lady Renisha.
I am writing this letter to apologize for my mistake, even though it is late. >
It came in Turiel's name, but it was not from her, but from Canary.
"Haha."
Renisha let out a hollow laugh. Lindy made a puzzled expression.
Renisha wore a look that seemed both refreshing and bitter.
< I was arrogant. I have caused you worry and trouble, Lady Renisha, so I do not know how to apologize for this. I would like to apologize for everything that has happened. >
What on earth made Canary change her mind?
Canary was someone who had not received a proper education.
She judged most things based on fragments.
It was right to assume that Canary, having a child, would be revered by the nobles.
She wondered what kind of change in her heart had led her to write this letter.
< Lady Renisha, please spare me, even if it is for the sake of the child who has not yet seen the light of day. I will lie flat on the floor and live as an apology for my past sins. >
"You want me to spare you?"
Renisha's pink eyes were filled with murder.
Canary whispered vicious words into Laxus's ear, further alienating him from Lottera.
It would never be possible to say that Canary was not responsible for the deaths of the Duke and Duchess of Lottera.
Saving Renisha's life, after losing so much because of Canary?
Was she in her right mind?
She even doubted whether she truly trusted Renisha and entrusted her child and her life to her.
Even if Canary was a fool, she should be able to make rational decisions.
Otherwise, what had happened in the imperial family?
Had Laxus lost his mind and decided to kill the woman carrying his child?
Perhaps he believed the child would steal his throne.
"Duchess, you don't look well."
"No,"
Renisha replied softly.
The letter, drawn out in detail, was ultimately a plea for her life to be spared.
"Going to see Turiel."
For Canary, it was a lot of brainpower.
"What on earth did Laxus do?"
Renisha narrowed her eyes.
"This letter must be just a joke from Turiel for me."
Turiel probably didn't truly intend to help Canary.
She probably just wanted to suck up some of the sweet water and spit it out.
"Canary, Canary."
What should I do with her?
To make a garden tree grow beautifully, it needs careful pruning.
A tree that's too lush will not grow properly.
Canary was one of the branches that needed to be cut off.
For Hientri's sake.
Renisha folded the letter and handed it to Lindy.
"What should we do with this?"
"It's not that important, so burn it. Turiel will take care of Canary's affairs."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
Canary would soon be officially crowned Empress.
As Empress, Canary had to open the salon and entertain the ladies, whether she liked it or not.
Renisha slowly lifted her lips.
"It wouldn't be a bad idea to attend."
It was a long journey, but it might be worth it.
And it would be a chance to imprint her on those who had suffered in the system without Renisha.
"Where is Kassius?"
"He's in the training hall now."
Renisha walked briskly.
"...The sword you wield, Lady of the Fairy Tales, is definitely not cute."
The knight gasped and said to Kassius.
Thud!
Kassius's sword grazed the side of the knight's face and embedded itself in the floor.
The knight rolled to the side, giggling.
"I'll cover your mouth."
"What are you so upset about? You look so good on me, a virtuous lady."
Kassius's eyes gleamed.
"Should I make you a virtuous lady too? Do you want to feel empty down there?"
"Oh dear!"
The knight, who had been lying comfortably on the floor, giggling, rose from his seat and moved away from him.
Kassius sighed and pulled the sword out of the floor.
Kassius, who had been fiddling with the damaged end, turned around.
"Kassius."
The mastermind behind all this, Renisha, appeared, her smile as bright as spring.
"I have something to tell you. Is it time?"
Kassius nodded, as if entranced, at her gentle question.
The knights clicked their tongues as Kassius sheathed his sword and approached Renisha.
Kassius hurried along, draping the shirt he'd taken off over his shoulders.
"If that's not a puppy, then what is it...? He just goes when she calls him."
Kassius, once known as a murderer on the battlefield, now looked like a gentle puppy.
Woof woof!
"This letter must be just a joke from Turiel for me."
Turiel probably didn't truly intend to help Canary.
She probably just wanted to suck up some of the sweet water and spit it out.
"Canary, Canary."
What should I do with her?
To make a garden tree grow beautifully, it needs careful pruning.
A tree that's too lush will not grow properly.
Canary was one of the branches that needed to be cut off.
For Hientri's sake.
Renisha folded the letter and handed it to Lindy.
"What should we do with this?"
"It's not that important, so burn it. Turiel will take care of Canary's affairs."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
Canary would soon be officially crowned Empress.
As Empress, Canary had to open the salon and entertain the ladies, whether she liked it or not.
Renisha slowly lifted her lips.
"It wouldn't be a bad idea to attend."
It was a long journey, but it might be worth it.
And it would be a chance to imprint her on those who had suffered in the system without Renisha.
"Where is Kassius?"
"He's in the training hall now."
Renisha walked briskly.
***
"...The sword you wield, Lady of the Fairy Tales, is definitely not cute."
The knight gasped and said to Kassius.
Thud!
Kassius's sword grazed the side of the knight's face and embedded itself in the floor.
The knight rolled to the side, giggling.
"I'll cover your mouth."
"What are you so upset about? You look so good on me, a virtuous lady."
Kassius's eyes gleamed.
"Should I make you a virtuous lady too? Do you want to feel empty down there?"
"Oh dear!"
The knight, who had been lying comfortably on the floor, giggling, rose from his seat and moved away from him.
Kassius sighed and pulled the sword out of the floor.
Kassius, who had been fiddling with the damaged end, turned around.
"Kassius."
The mastermind behind all this, Renisha, appeared, her smile as bright as spring.
"I have something to tell you. Is it time?"
Kassius nodded, as if entranced, at her gentle question.
The knights clicked their tongues as Kassius sheathed his sword and approached Renisha.
Kassius hurried along, draping the shirt he'd taken off over his shoulders.
"If that's not a puppy, then what is it...? He just goes when she calls him."
Kassius, once known as a murderer on the battlefield, now looked like a gentle puppy.
Woof woof!
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