Episode 76: Moving to the Royal Capital.
《Serios’s POV》
The cold winter wind blew through the Aegrid Territory.
The air was clear, and the branches of the trees were beginning to be coated in a thin layer of ice. This season, having finished our preparations within the territory, we had reached the time to depart for the Royal Capital.
“Lord Serios, with this, the arrangements for the territory are complete.”
Arnaud reported, bowing deeply.
The agricultural plans were also progressing, and the strengthening of the Knights Order and the maintenance of defenses were on track. Even during my absence, they would surely protect the territory well.
“Thank you, Arnaud. I’m counting on you while I’m away.”
“Please leave it to me. Lord Serios, you too, please take care.”
We finished our preparations for departure and loaded our luggage onto the carriage. It was decided that Emma would also accompany us to the Royal Capital, and the Dark Guild would be responsible for transportation services, such as exchanging letters with the territory.
If we have more manpower, I intend to run a transportation business as a venture for the frontier. The population in the current frontier is increasing due to the effect of lowered taxes.
By accepting refugees and the like, a new city is also currently under construction near the town of Aegrid.
We are creating a place to serve as homes and workplaces for the new residents.
Maria, Claris, Liese, and Faina will board the carriage in turn and accompany me to the Royal Capital. The escorts are Emma and Kanon.
I suddenly remembered the letter.
In the letter that arrived from Duke Everett a few days ago, a surprising proposal was written.
“My son-in-law Serios. Regarding your school life in the Royal Capital, there is no need for you to enter the dormitory. Together with my Daughter, you may use my Duke’s Residence in the Royal Capital. I will also prepare the necessary security and personnel. I am looking forward to your decision.”
I hadn’t expected to be offered a residence by the Duke, so it was honestly surprising. However, given the current situation where Liese is being targeted, living a life with strict security is preferable.
It was clear that it was a more suitable place than the dormitory.
“Lord Serios, the preparations are complete.”
Faina smiled at me.
“Serios, leave guiding you around the residence to me.”
Claris exuded a sense of relief towards the familiar Duke’s Residence.
“Ah, well then, let’s depart.”
Inside the carriage was warm, and the scenery visible from the window announced the arrival of winter. Liese, while gazing at the scenery outside, was smiling happily.
“Lord Serios, it feels like it’s been a while since we headed to the Royal Capital, doesn’t it?”
“That’s right. But this time, instead of the school dormitory, we’ll be living in the Duke’s Residence.”
“In the Duke’s Residence?”
Liese looked at me with a surprised expression.
“The Duke proposed it. It’s a comfortable environment for Claris too, and the security is well-arranged. I think it will be more comfortable for you and the others, Liese, than the dormitory.”
“That’s a relief. Lady Claris, thank you very much.”
Claris was smiling quietly, her gaze directed out the window.
“For me, it’s a familiar place. But… I don’t know what Father is thinking. Please be very careful.”
“Yeah, I know. But honestly, it’s a great help.”
“Well, that’s true.”
“I’m looking forward to it since it’ll be my first time visiting. Claris, you don’t need to be overly considerate on my account.”
“Yes, thank you.”
Maria, while listening to their conversation, had a somewhat complicated expression on her face.
“Maria, what’s wrong?”
“No… I’m just a little worried if I can adapt to the new environment.”
This time, since we’ll be living in the residence, I decided to have Maria accompany us as a Maid. It wouldn’t look good for me not to have a Maid attending me even when Liese and Faina aren’t around.
“Don’t worry. The Duke’s Residence has Maids and Butlers who are acquaintances of Claris. Besides, I also intend to make sure you all can live comfortably.”
“Thank you, Lord Serios. Then, I’ll allow myself to depend on your kindness without worry.”
After a carriage journey of several days, upon entering the Royal Capital, the city was bustling with preparations for the end of the year. Dazzling decorations adorned the streets, and lively voices echoed.
As the carriage advanced, the large gate of the Duke’s Residence came into view.
When the gate opened, strict security and a magnificently arranged garden jumped into view. The Duke’s Residence, as expected, boasted a splendor that stood out even within the Royal Capital.
“This is…”
Liese let out a voice of admiration. Beside her, Maria was also holding her breath in awe.
“Amazing!”
Claris gazed at it nostalgically, and when the carriage arrived at the entrance, the Butler and Maids greeted us in an orderly fashion.
“Welcome back, Lady Claris. And Lord Serios, everyone. Welcome.”
The Butler welcomed us with a bow. Behind him were lined up the faces of the Maids whom Claris had apparently adored since long ago.
“Lady Claris, it is an honor that the day has come when we can serve you again.”
“Everyone, I’m happy to see you all again.”
Claris’s expression softened. Glancing at her, I was grateful for the Duke’s consideration this time.
“Everyone, we will be in your care for a while.”
When I spoke, the Butler and Maids bowed deeply.
Our life at the Duke’s Residence began.
Claris, with a familiar air, proceeded with official duties and living arrangements. Liese and Maria are a little nervous, but they seem to be enjoying the new environment within the luxurious residence.
Once the new year begins, school life will start. Until then, how fulfilling a time we can spend in this Duke’s Residence will be key.
“Lord Serios, I’m looking forward to seeing what life in the Duke’s Residence will be like, aren’t you?”
To Liese’s smile, I also naturally returned a smile.
“That’s right. Life here will likely become a great strength for the next year.”
Our new challenge begins from this place.
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Afterword
Hello, I’m the author, Iko!
That’s all for today ^^