Chapter 30: Holy Knight vs Hero ②
From within the Barrier, Ryuguin was thrust back into my presence once more. Chancellor Madison, having confirmed the two of us, opened his mouth to speak.
“I regret to say this about Princess Puffy, but it seems she is not suited for this occasion. I had no choice but to silence her.”
With that, he continued.
“If you were here from the beginning, you must be aware of the discussions that have taken place. I shall ask Holy Knight Yamada whether what has been said thus far is the truth or not.”
I silenced Ryuguin with a glance as he attempted to interject. He bit his lip but ultimately closed his mouth.
“Everything that has been said so far is the truth.”
Indeed. Everything was cloaked in deception. Ryuguin had colored everything in his own hue.
“It was not Hero Ryuguin who conquered the eight high-difficulty Labyrinths, including the Sealed Labyrinth, but rather I—Holy Knight Yamada.”
Chancellor Madison nodded once.
“Is there anyone who can vouch for the credibility of his statement? Heroes of the Hero Party, I grant you the opportunity to speak once more.”
As he directed his words toward the three of them, Eris spoke up.
“I, Eris Gladius, shall make a statement. Everything that Saintess Mika said earlier was the absolute truth. The four of us took all the credit for his achievements, inflicting great humiliation and wounds upon him, deceiving the nation and its people.”
Following her, Angelica added, “There is not a single error in Sword Saint Eris’s words.”
At this, Ryuguin trembled, his shoulders shaking as he bowed his head in resignation.
But this was not the end. The testimonies continued, heedless of Ryuguin’s emotions. First, the massive beast Saga raised his voice boldly.
“Yamada is truly something else. Just thinking about what would have happened if he hadn’t been around sends chills down my spine. Without a doubt, he is the key player in the subjugation of the Sealed Domain.”
In response to his statement, Kuroe coolly replied.
“My opinion aligns with his. Regarding this matter, I am convinced that all the credit belongs to him. He possesses such incredible strength and a character to match that it compels me to declare it. Compared to the tales of gods and saintesses… it may seem a bit lacking, but… well, that’s fine. I swear by the name of the Old Capital (Bienetta) and Kuroe Tesoro that there is not a single lie in my current statement.”
Then Pul-san added her voice.
“The Three-Headed Dragon was the worst monster I have faced so far. If it weren’t for Ichiro-kun, I would never have been able to defeat that abomination. Without a doubt, the Fog would still be proliferating, and the Three-Headed Dragon would be spreading destruction, causing endless suffering. I stake my name, Pulmy En Dynast, on the truth of this.”
Next, Anon chimed in, “Hmm, did I arrive late to the party?” and began to make his declaration.
“There is not a single error in their words. The subjugation of the Sealed Domain and the conquest of the Sealed Labyrinth were led by him at the center. Above all, through his tireless efforts, countless lives were saved. I apologize for being just a mere information broker, but I shall stake my name—Anon—on all that has been said thus far.”
Hearing his words, Orphe muttered.
“It’s a bit annoying to follow Anon, but…”
With that preface, it was her turn.
“My name is Orphelia Verite. Please allow a mere Seeker like me to speak in the presence of such distinguished individuals. The strength of this Holy Knight is unparalleled. Moreover, he is selfless and noble, wielding his power without regard for his own safety. I believe that without him, not only this country but this world would have perished. You may think that sounds exaggerated, but it is the truth. Though it may not be worth much, I shall stake the name of this S-rank Seeker, Sword Dance Orphelia Verite.”
After hearing everyone’s statements, Chancellor Madison nodded thoughtfully and turned to me once more.
“Holy Knight Yamada, it seems many are praising you.”
I felt my eyes welling up at their kind gestures. This debt of gratitude was one I could never fully repay.
“Everyone here has their own quirks. To have earned their trust is no small feat. I wish to greatly commend you for making them say such things. And along with that, I want to express my utmost gratitude for saving this country.”
As Chancellor Madison’s expression softened, he bowed his head.
“Thank you very much.”
Though it lasted only a few seconds, I could clearly feel his sentiments. Then, he continued.
“Yamada, I assume you have more to say?”
Ryuguin had not only stolen my achievements—what he had done was so heinous that it felt trivial in comparison. I could not forgive him for that.
“Hero Ryuguin not only took my accomplishments but also manipulated my precious companions through his mysterious ability, forcing them to commit vile acts.”
Ryuguin visibly flinched—his shoulders trembled noticeably even from a distance.