Chapter 123: I Have Become a Viscount
“The Royal Academy members… Rest, Lord Wilhelm Lübesse, and Lady Isis Carbelt have entered the chamber!”
The attendant declared loudly as the doors to the audience chamber swung open. Following the order of their names—Rest, Lübesse, and Isis—each stepped into the room in turn. Accompanying Rest were the Rosemary Sisters, who entered alongside him, having received his escort.
“…………!”
The audience chamber was filled with a multitude of people, and for a brief moment, Rest felt overwhelmed. The individuals present were all impeccably dressed, making their noble status immediately clear. Although he had received prior explanations from his father-in-law, Albert, he understood that those gathered were nobles from the Royalist Faction, supporting the King and Crown Prince. This meant that, as a faction, they were allies, yet their gazes held a scrutinizing quality. Even within the same faction, there were hierarchies, rivalries, and attempts to undermine one another. They were likely assessing whether the young individuals representing their faction would become allies or rivals, or if they would prove to be useful.
(Aside from my father-in-law, the only faces I can recognize are… Duke Crocus, the Chancellor, Marquis Cattleya, and the two princes.)
In the audience chamber, Rest spotted the King’s aides, Crown Prince Richard and Second Prince Andrew. As Student Council President, Andrew met Rest’s gaze and flashed a knowing smile.
(And there is His Majesty the King. It’s my first time seeing him this closely…)
Seated on a throne elevated by several steps was a bearded man—David Aiwood, the ruler of the Aiwood Kingdom. He was often compared to the previous tyrannical king, known for his gentle disposition and benevolent rule. Of course, the unfavorable comparison often led to a more favorable perception of him, but even without that context, he appeared to be a kind and approachable figure.
(While he may lack a certain regal gravitas… he has a friendly demeanor. It might be disrespectful to call a king ‘friendly,’ but…)
As Rest approached the throne, he separated from the sisters and knelt, bowing his head. This was a formality he had practiced countless times under the guidance of his butler, Dibble. Beside him, Lübesse and Isis also knelt in a similar manner.
“Raise your faces.”
The King spoke solemnly. Rest and the others lifted their heads while still kneeling. Looking up at the throne, they were met with the King’s gentle smile.
“You are the young heroes who have dedicated yourselves to the subjugation of the Master of the Demon Realm and the rescue of participants during the Monster Hunting Festival on the Subnock Plain. Your achievements are truly commendable.”
The King opened his mouth, offering words of praise.
“I am genuinely pleased to see the next generation of our nation flourishing. I shall bestow upon you a reward.”
The King rose, taking a step or two down from the throne toward Rest and the others. Rest bowed his head once more, awaiting the King’s words.
“Rest, vassal of the Marquis family, I hereby confer upon you the title of ‘Viscount’ and grant you the surname ‘Clover.’ Serve the royal family with all your strength.”
The King placed the tip of his scepter on Rest’s shoulder. Taking a deep breath, Rest responded to the King’s words.
“My sword shall be wielded for the royal family and the kingdom. I pledge my heartfelt loyalty to the glorious Aiwood Kingdom.”
These words were the customary declaration made when receiving a noble title. Having practiced them numerous times beforehand, he was able to deliver them smoothly, despite his nervousness.
“Wilhelm Lübesse of the Knight Baron family, I hereby confer upon you the title of ‘Baron,’ allowing you to be known as Baron Lübesse. Serve the royal family with all your strength.”
“My sword shall be wielded for the royal family and the kingdom. I pledge my heartfelt loyalty to the glorious Aiwood Kingdom.”
In a similar manner, Lübesse was also granted the title of Baron. Following him, Isis was also ennobled.
“I shall grant the three of you territories on the Subnock Plain. I will provide personnel and funds for development, so strive for its advancement.”
“Understood.”
“Now then… there is something I must announce to everyone present.”
The King paused briefly, surveying those gathered in the audience chamber. A palpable tension filled the spacious room. Everyone present understood… that the King was about to speak.
“Recently, Marquis Berlio Aiger, a supposed vassal of the kingdom, has turned against the royal family. Therefore, I hereby declare Marquis Aiger a rebel!”
“…………!”
As expected, everyone gasped in shock. The Marquis had long exhibited a rebellious attitude toward the royal family, but now he had finally taken action.
“We have already captured the relatives of Marquis Aiger who were in the royal capital. The Marquis is gathering soldiers with the nobles of his territory. Henceforth, I shall dispatch the Subjugation Army, led by Crown Prince Richard as the commander and Marquis Cattleya as the vice-commander!”
The King turned his gaze toward the three still kneeling.
“Young heroes, I ask you to join the Subjugation Army. Deliver justice upon the fools who rebel against the royal family!”
“Yes, my lord!”
Rest and the others accepted the royal command, expressing their intent to join the Subjugation Army. The deep Darkness that had plagued the Aiwood Kingdom since the time of the late Queen Dowager was now ready to be confronted. The time for action had come.