Chapter 6: Days Before The Catastrophe⑥
Ashley Noble.
As a Holy Knight, her mission was to protect the seal, and her entire life was destined to be consumed “literally” by that duty.
Originally, just a little ahead in her life, a “certain death” awaited her. She was, in a sense, trapped in an inescapable curse, but it was a young man named Ichiro who shattered those chains completely.
Even when faced with the imminent threat of death, his noble demeanor, seeking nothing in return, embodied the ideal she aspired to be.
Currently, she was staying at a luxurious inn prepared by Lord Bordaf, leaving the maintenance of her estate to Justus and the others. Due to her naturally caring nature, she had been unable to refuse Anon and the lord’s requests regarding the aftermath of the Sealed Domain, and she found herself overwhelmed with work day and night.
It was on one of those days, when peace was finally beginning to return, that Ichiro visited her.
“Long time no see.”
Ichiro had come to fulfill the promise made back then. Inside the Sealed Labyrinth, when it was revealed that “Row” was a pseudonym and that his true name was Yamada Ichiro, the Fourth Holy Knight of the Arcana Kingdom, he had promised to explain everything to Ashley later. His expression, somehow resolute, appeared more mature than usual.
“I wanted to hear your story as well.”
“That helps. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.”
Had he been fighting alone all this time?
As Ashley listened to his tale, her thoughts drifted to his lonely days, and her eyes grew moist. Ichiro was taken aback by her tears and panicked.
“Please stop crying.”
He furrowed his brow.
“It’s not that I think I’m pitiful. But, uh, I can’t find the right words… I mean… thank you.”
She nodded gently.
Ashley was reflecting on his story. It was so absurd and mysterious. Yet… she recalled those days. We Holy Knights fulfilled our duties, risking our lives to protect the kingdom. However, for reasons unknown, the reputation of the Holy Knights gradually, yet surely, declined. The once-bustling estate was now devoid of visitors, leaving only herself and the long-serving servants like Justus.
She remembered the vast, desolate mansion. It was a lonely, sorrowful, and parched memory.
Indeed, many things were explained by Ichiro’s story. However, beyond the circumstances of the Holy Knights or who he was, there was something more important. Though it was a short time, she had been watching him.
“How are you doing?” “If you’re not okay, just say so. I’ll have Sensei take a look at you.” The way he repeatedly asked about Ashley’s health, the way he faced monsters for a world he had no ties to, and the way he shed tears for comrades who betrayed him—she had seen it all.
“Do you trust me?”
Ichiro asked.
“Thank you for sharing your story. I’m glad to know you. But there’s one thing I want you to understand.”
“…”
“I already trust you.”
“Ash…”
“How could I not trust you?”
To be honest, Ashley continued, “A few days ago, Anon came to see me. Without even a proper greeting, they said right away, ‘Ichiro will come soon, so listen to him and help him out.'”
“Anon said that…?”
“Yeah, but that’s a bit intrusive. No, rather, it’s more like unnecessary meddling.”
“Unnecessary meddling?”
“Exactly. Even without Anon’s request, I would have listened to your story and trusted you on my own. Besides, if you had asked for help, I would have gladly offered my support.”
A firm resolve shone in her eyes.
“So, while it annoys me that Anon mentioned it first, Ichiro… you’re in trouble, aren’t you?”
“Yeah… but is it okay?”
Don’t make that face─── Whether it was instinct or impulse, Ashley unconsciously wrapped his hands tightly in hers.
“There’s no way I would disregard your plea for help.”
That’s right.
“So, tell me what you’re fighting against, and what I can do to assist you. With that, I will support you with all my strength.”
Ashley was genuinely happy to be relied upon by him.
After he left and she was alone in her room, Ashley felt ashamed of herself. Until she heard his story that day, she had been under the misconception that Ichiro was the “ideal Holy Knight who could do anything.” The image she held of him was one of overwhelming strength and kindness, akin to a superhero from modern society.
However, as she listened to Ichiro’s tale, she realized her mistake. He was strong and kind… but just as much, he was sensitive, capable of being hurt by the malice of others, and could shed tears—he was just an ordinary young man. How could she have overlooked such a simple truth?
But today, she was glad to have learned more about him. She found herself liking him even more.
Taking a deep breath, she resolved to return to her estate. She intended to seek help from her comrades, who had endured the same hardships alongside her. They too possessed noble and righteous spirits. If she explained the situation to some extent, they would undoubtedly lend their strength.
However, what would she do if Ichiro asked for help? Anon had likely predicted that as well. The fact that she hadn’t reached out to those who should be the first to assist was proof of that.
Honestly, people aren’t just pawns. The next time I see him, I’ll confront him about it.
But regardless of Anon’s intentions, I will be the one to decide to help you. Ashley wished with all her heart.
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Why does everyone keep crying?
The preparations should probably end next time.
Please… forgive me.