Chapter 187: A Request from Ula
Ula Lavender is the daughter of the Border Count family, responsible for guarding the eastern frontier. The Lavender Border Count family is a martial aristocracy, standing alongside the magical Rosemary Marquis House and the martial Cattleya Marquis House as the kingdom’s sword. In the past, during the war with the neighboring Geisel Empire to the east, they fought bravely, taking down many enemy soldiers. Of course, they were also the nobles who suffered the most casualties.
“So, a dragon has appeared in the wetlands to the east of the Plain… a ‘Worm,’ huh?”
The scene shifts to an open café. Though it’s called an open café, it is merely a modest establishment in a development village located at the frontlines of the Demon Realm. The place is far from fancy, consisting only of wooden box chairs and barrel tables.
“A Worm… indeed, it is a type of dragon.”
Just moments ago, they had been speaking formally, but at Ula’s request, they switched to a more casual tone. In reality, there isn’t much difference in their status. Rest is the head of a Count House, while Ula is the only daughter and heir of the Border Count family. The title of Border Count carries more authority and territory than a typical Count, effectively rivaling that of Dukes and Marquis.
“By the way… is your usual attendant not here today?”
“……Hmm.”
Upon pointing out the absence, Ula turned her gaze elsewhere. Following her line of sight, Rest noticed her attendant hiding in the shadow of a building, watching them as if she were a detective on stakeout.
“……What’s that?”
“……A bodyguard?”
“Why the question mark?”
Ula is quite the enigma. Nevertheless, Rest refocused on Ula’s request. Her speech was fragmented and brief, but through gestures and written notes, he managed to extract the necessary information. The Lavender Border Count family is responsible for developing the land to the east of the Plain, but it seems a type of dragon known as a “Worm” has appeared in the wetlands there. The Worm’s presence has been hindering their progress.
“Recently… it’s been quite…”
“……Recently, the Worm’s activity has become particularly vigorous.”
“The trigger… the barrier…”
“Ah… the Monster-Repelling Barrier we set up has likely provoked the Worm. In other words, I share some responsibility for this.”
While it was Andrew who took the lead in establishing the barrier, he had informed the Lavender Border Count in advance to raise awareness. Thus, Rest shouldn’t need to take responsibility, but it was undeniable that the burden had fallen on the girl before him.
(I suppose I’ll report this to Andrew… but I have a feeling I’ll end up going myself.)
Though the Worm is ranked low among dragons, it is still a dragon. Rest doesn’t believe it to be stronger than the Magical Beast Sabnock, but it is undoubtedly a formidable monster.
“I don’t mind taking on the monster hunting after consulting with Prince Andrew. After all, I’m already in this boat.”
Rest knows that the Clover Count House will eventually acquire territory in the northern part of the Plain. Likewise, the Lavender Border Count family is expected to receive a portion of the eastern Plain. They will be neighbors, so it’s better to create a ‘favor’ than leave behind any ill will.
“……I’m so happy. Yay!”
When Rest gave his consent, Ula placed her hands on her cheeks, beaming with joy. Her cheeks flushed a soft pink, and her lips blossomed like petals. As her bangs fluttered, her beautiful, rainbow-hued eyes sparkled.
“Wow…”
How adorable. Especially the color of her eyes… they shimmer like precious opals, changing hues with the light.
(What a mysterious color… could it be a ‘Magic Eye’ or something?)
A Magic Eye, also known as “Evil Eye” or “Holy Mark,” refers to eyes that are naturally inscribed with special magic. While rare, there are individuals who possess abilities like the “Magic Vision Eye,” which allows them to perceive the flow of magical power visually.
(I’ve heard there are Magic Eyes that can see into a person’s past or future… it sounds a bit like something out of a fantasy novel, but I can’t help but feel a little envious.)
“Let me hear the details!”
At that moment, a loud voice rang out. With a swift sound, Yuri appeared above them.
“Fugoo…”
Yuri was carrying an elderly healer in a princess carry. How she managed to get here while carrying him was a mystery, and the old man appeared dizzy from the transport.
“As for the Worm hunting… I’ll join you!”
“Oh, so you really were listening.”
“Of course, my hearing is excellent. This is an apology for the injuries caused. I will wholeheartedly assist in the monster hunting!”
Yuri declared with enthusiasm. Though it was unexpected, a new mission had been activated. Rest found himself set to join Ula and Yuri in the hunt for the Worm.