Chapter 18: Imperial Capital – Martial Arts Tournament – 09
Leaning against the edge of the hot spring, His Imperial Majesty continued speaking.
“I called Count Okuno here primarily because I wanted to hear from her… Geshura. For us, the mere fact that we can engage in dialogue with the ‘Kin of Twilight’ is an unprecedented event. The revelation that they are plotting a continental invasion is nothing short of astonishing.”
“I felt faint when I first heard it as well.”
“That is understandable. I believe Count Okuno is aware, but the appearance of the ‘Kin of Twilight’ within the Empire had been nearly zero for the past three months. Yet now, they are appearing in greater numbers than ever before. Moreover, they are exhibiting organized movements that we have not seen previously. We can certainly sense their intentions for a continental invasion.”
“I also heard the ‘Kin of Twilight’ that came to capture Geshura mention a king named Rendurm. I believe the information regarding the continental invasion is credible.”
“Incidents similar to what Count Okuno encountered in the dwarven mines are occurring in multiple locations. Adventurers who went to those sites have been reporting that the ‘Kin of Twilight’ seem to be moving for some purpose. This is undoubtedly the greatest crisis the Empire has faced since its founding.”
“I can only imagine your concerns. As an adventurer myself, I am willing to assist in any way I can.”
“That would be greatly appreciated. Ah, I apologize, but I did not come here solely to discuss such matters. Count Okuno… or rather, since everyone seems to be calling you Soushi, I shall refer to you as Soushi. There is something I wanted to ask you.”
“What would you like to know?”
As I replied, His Imperial Majesty narrowed his eyes and looked at me with a piercing gaze.
“What is your purpose in continuing as an adventurer, Soushi? Given that you have been granted the title of Count, you could have sought a territory. Surely there were other paths available to you, so why do you cling to the life of an adventurer?”
“My reasons are not particularly grand. One is that I wanted to ascertain how far I could go as an adventurer. The other is that I wish to see this world… to travel across the continent.”
“To ascertain how far you can go as an adventurer… does that mean you are aiming to become the strongest or to make a name for yourself?”
“I view the purpose of an adventurer’s activities as conquering dungeons, defeating monsters on the surface, and protecting those who are not adventurers. I want to see how far I can go in those endeavors.”
“That sounds like something one would pursue over a lifetime.”
“Perhaps. However, I am of a certain age, so I will need to draw the line somewhere. When that time comes, I think I will settle down and live a leisurely life.”
“Fufufu, you are quite an interesting person. To think that someone who has achieved so much and is even called a hero would ultimately wish to live leisurely.”
“I feel that might be the most difficult part…”
As I sighed, His Imperial Majesty nodded deeply.
“Indeed. For instance, if I were to wish to retire from the throne and live leisurely five years from now, do you think that would be possible?”
“No, I believe it would be impossible. A suitable successor would not appear immediately, and more importantly, even if Your Imperial Majesty were to step down, there would undoubtedly be those who would not allow you to do so.”
“Exactly. It is absolutely impossible. And Soushi, you are no different. In fact, I believe it would be far more difficult for you.”
“…”
His Imperial Majesty spoke as if stating a fact, without any hint of reprimand. Yet, that only made me feel the weight of his words more acutely.
“We have already decided to grant you a noble title within the Empire, Soushi. Of course, it will be above that of Count, but considering such matters, you should think about a life beyond merely ‘living leisurely.'”
“Y-yes…”
Faced with the mischievous smile of His Imperial Majesty, I found myself at a loss for words.
“By the way, I heard you will be participating in the martial arts tournament in the Imperial Capital. Should I take it that you aim to win?”
“Ah… yes. Since I am participating, I have no intention of holding back. I am responsible for many party members.”
“That is delightful to hear. By the way, the members of ‘Soul’s Guidance’ seem to be all beautiful women. Are there any personal relationships involved?”
“No, I do not have such relationships with them. …For now, at least.”
I was aware that several of them had developed feelings for me, and some had already proposed marriage. I couldn’t simply say there was no relationship.
“I see. It seems there was also a discussion with Marquis Zanzagil, and similar conversations likely took place in Oz Country as well. I have heard that beastmen are attracted to strong men, and it would be surprising if there were no such discussions in Mecalinan. It must be quite challenging for someone of your caliber, Soushi.”
“…Yes, it seems that way.”
As expected of His Imperial Majesty, he was well-informed and possessed exceptional insight. As a commoner, I could only feel deeply humbled.
“By the way, as you may know, my sister will also be participating in the upcoming martial arts tournament. She is a bit of a tomboy, and I would like you to teach her a lesson.”
“I have heard about Princess Marishielle, but what do you mean by ‘teach her a lesson’?”
“Despite being royalty, she insists on only forming bonds with those stronger than herself, which is quite selfish. Moreover, she is the strongest in the Empire, making her unmanageable. As her brother, I wish to allow her some freedom in marriage, considering she has already contributed significantly to the Empire as an adventurer. However, if she remains without suitors, it becomes a troublesome matter with various people getting involved.”
“…Indeed, it must be difficult for a princess to go unnoticed by those around her.”
“Exactly. That is why I have high hopes for you, Soushi.”
“Are you suggesting that you expect me to defeat Princess Marishielle in the tournament?”
“From there, I believe it will be a matter for the two of them to discuss, so I cannot say too much.”
His Imperial Majesty’s intent was clear from his meaningful gaze, but I wondered if it was appropriate to say such things to someone he had just met.
Before I could voice that question, His Imperial Majesty chuckled softly.
“I understand what you are trying to say, Soushi. Of course, I have thoroughly investigated your character, aside from the mystery surrounding your origins, and I can see that you are indeed as I have learned. You may consider this conversation in that context.”
I could understand that reasoning. It was only natural for a ruler to seek to incorporate someone like me, who was difficult to handle, into the Empire through strong connections. Given that it would be challenging for me to live leisurely, it would be necessary to establish ties to avoid being ostracized by those in power.
The problem was that my own sensibilities were not aligned with such political considerations. However, I was no longer young enough to act solely on emotion. If necessary, I would not strongly oppose entering into a marriage alliance. Yet, as someone with modern Japanese morals, it was difficult not to consider the feelings of the other party.
“…For now, if I can defeat Princess Marishielle, I will consider having a conversation with her. I personally wish to share information with capable adventurers.”
“I believe that is a splendid idea. Fufufu, it seems I will not have to worry about any bad luck in the hot spring.”
With that, His Imperial Majesty quietly stood up and exited the hot spring.
“Princess Marishielle will be present at tonight’s dinner, so please take a moment to speak with her. She is quite curious about you, Soushi.”
As I sensed the inevitability of my fate in those parting words, I inexplicably felt a chill in the warm water.