Silent week
Are you sick?
I am told that quite often.
I hate reading the most. I prefer horse racing or practicing the sword.
Bastian shrugged.
The young soldier took a few books from the pile on the table.
This work tells a story about a super swordsman, his enemy includes a 100Co(44m) tall monster. It is a tense battle.
This too, the heroine uses magic, while the protagonist is a strong support. Though the male lead is a really tough man.
Are, are you talking about magic cult?
Ah? You do not know about the bestsellers in the Empire? Nobles around your age are buying these the most.
Is that so? I really hate books after all
I also recomnd this one No, perhaps this is a little extre. The way he describes the battle is fabulous, but the girls clothing are a little thin.
What is with this guy Well, whatever A cool fight scene? Why dont you lend that?
Is that so? Im glad that you like it. The author is the sa age as you.
Eh!? Isnt this written by an adult!?
The author? As the target audiences are towards youth, there are more young authors. Perhaps they just have similar mindsets or simply just childish adults.
Do you write too?
... I was interested, but If I write, there wont be enough ti to read right?
Ah, I see.
Bastian concentrated on reading the book.
It was an outstanding work.
Furthermore, it was written by soone the sa age as him.
How Incredible That was his true thought.
... ...If, you write a story and it becos a bestseller in the future, theres a chance that I might read it.
The soldier was a handso young man, who had a gentle smile.
Bastian hugged the borrowed book tightly.
At that mont, a soldier with black beard entered with loud footsteps.
He shouted while red in the face.
Hey!! Regis Auric you bastard! Break ti was over long ago! Are you going to make the Marquis wait for you!?
Ugh!
He stood up quickly
At the sa ti, at the door of the library,
Soldiers from the First Army, the strongest White Tiger Order, appeared in the library, which did not suit them.
The powerful knights pointed at Bastian.
Hes here!
Bastian then fled through the gap between the tables, smashed the windows and escaped outside. In his hand, he was holding the book ...
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After a short rest in the mill, Bastian moved into the forest with Elizabeth. They moved in the direction of the streets and reached Applewood by dusk.
We didnt lose our way.
Isnt that normal? Considering my speed and I had morized the map, its impossible to be lost. There isnt much difference between this and dodging bullets.
Ah Youre weird, Bastian.
Really? Latreille can do it too. Ah, though Argentina is not good with directions. She is quite interesting as she can get lost in the forest.
That is normal.
Bastian tilted his head upon hearing that.
Applewood was a fortress city that was surrounded by walls. A bustling city that was the biggest in the east.
Even when the sun set, the streets would still be filled with stalls, and the noises were similar to that of a festival.
The lives of the citizens here, even with the rapid advancent of technology, were no different than Belgaria's.
As a precaution, Bastian wore his sunglasses. After all, there might be soone in this big city that knows about the features of Belgariane royalty.
Bastian who was beside her whispered in Elises ear, ... There arent that many soldiers.
His shoulder lightly bumped into Elises shoulder.
Ah, not all soldiers are on Margaret's side, due to various reasons.
Although Margaret is the mastermind, but do you know who was the one that ordered it? After all, ordering an assassination of a royal who is nad as successor sure is cruel.
I need to return to the capital.
Leave it to . I will definitely bring you there, so trust .
Thanks, Bastian.
She had no idea when soone after her life might attack.
Because of that fear, she moved closer to Bastian.
Even when in the schools dorm or the canteen, their shoulders were not as close as now.
Bastian has a mixed emotion of being proud and shy. At the sa ti, his desire to want to protect her intensified.
I wonder if we can stay here.
I wonder if they accept students?
That reminds , you cant reveal yourself as a princess, right?
Yeah, its dangerous after all.
They have considered visiting Applewoods mayor, but they decided not to as they were unsure which side the mayor was on.
If he was on Margaret side, it was likely that he would call the army imdiately.
They entered the shop before the sky darkened.
It was a building with white walls, the first floor being a bar while the second floor were the guestrooms. Both High Britannia and Belgaria have the sa inns layout.
There were six n drinking at a table that was ant to seat four people.
At the counter, there was an old woman.
What is it, this isnt a place children should co.
She uttered words of rejection.
How should we explain this? Bastian was stumped.
Elise walked to her and said, Sorry to disturb, we are actually students and we are on our way back ho to visit our sick relative. The carriage that our family arranged seems to be late Is it possible that we can stay here for a night?
Hmm
The old woman ca out of the counter and surveyed them
... Do you have money?
Ah, that
Bastian searched his pockets.
It was a futile search. Not just money, he did not have his stationery for studying.
Theres only an old watch, a short sword and my future masterpiece. Oh no, no matter how I think, the thing with the most value is my masterpiece!
What about my handkerchief? It was sothing given by my mother, though I seldom use it. Anyway, I dont think its cheap.
The granny stretched her hand out.
Elise passed her the handkerchief.
The grannys eyes changed after seeing that.
Is this ...silk?
If it is not enough, its fine, we'll go and find another shop.
Eh? Ahh Well, it cant be helped, Ill let you stay, though only breakfast and dinner will be provided.
Thank you.
Elise lowered her head.
Bastian was relieved.
Thats great, Elise!
Yes, Bastian. I really feel like sleeping after running around the whole day.
The granny tilted her head.
Erm, both of you are siblings, right?
Is it fine for it to be only one room?
Eh?
Elise blushed,
While Bastian scratched his head.
Its fine, Im fine with being outside-
No! Its cold outside. Granny, its fine even if there is only a room. We are siblings after all.
Is that so? Then, this is the key, its fine if you bring the key out. Well, it isnt the ti for children to go outside right now anyway. If you want dinner, it is best that you have it now as our stock is about to run out.
Yes!
I want to eat so at.
After finishing his words, the granny laughed.
I don't think this suits the tastes of a young noble.
So bread and a thin soup with chicken was served.
Normally, one would drink beer to go with it, but they were still children, so water was served instead. The shelf life of beer was about one week while water would go bad after three days even during the cold season
And so, in a sense, warm potable water was more valuable than beer.
Bastian used the wooden utensils to eat
Delicious!
After finishing his novel overnight, he went to school without eating anything, hence he had gone without food for the entire day.
From him catching up with Elise to the intense battle in the forest, it was not surprising that he was hungry.
The hot soup filled his empty stomach and its light seasoning was appropriate for his thirsty tongue. Its really tasty, granny, I guarantee you that youre fit to be Belgarias palace chef!
Haa ... Is that so? That was prepared by the old man.
It really is delicious.
Elise was in a similar situation and tears ford at the corners of her eyes. Thinking about it, after she resolved to be the queen, abandoning her normal life and left the dorm, she was chased by soldiers who were after her life for the whole day and was showered with bullets.
Perhaps today's event has taken a toll on her Bastian thought.
Thats right!? Granny, I want a second serving!
Wait, Bastian.
What, Im not wasting it! Its just another serving!
Ah, is that so?
Erm That too
Elises face redden as she hand over her utensils.
After finishing dinner, they went to the room.
After opening the door, both of them were petrified.
In the room, there were table and chairs, but there was only one bed.
This is for one person?
There are two pillow, so probably for two two people sleeping together here Elises face redden once more.
Suddenly, she went weak in her knees.
Bastian supported her shoulders in a panic.
Hey, are you alright?
Noo!?
Perhaps she was confused, Elise wriggled around, causing her to lose balance and fell on the bed.
It should be fine if he let go of her hand.
However, Bastian stretched his hand out.
In the end,
It resulted in Elises back on the bed
While Bastian was on top of her.
Her golden hair was disheveled against the gray bed sheet.
A fragrance that were mixed of sweat, dirt and soup were exuded.
Elise closed her eyes, trembling.
You cant
O,oh no
That, and
Wait, please dont be angry! I, I just lost control of my legs, Im tired too!
At this mont, a cough could be heard from the door.
The two separated in a hurry and looked towards the door.
The door was opened
The granny who was at the door frowned.
Fools! You should do those kinds of things behind closed door!
We are not doing anything!
Elise groaned.
While Bastian shook his head, thinking that his face has reddened to the point that it could be his latest special skill.
That reminds , what is she referring to?... ...
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Their back touched each other as they were lying on the bed.
Hyaah!?
Ah, sorry.
T,the bed sure is small.
Y,yeah.
Their hearts were beating very fast as both were conscious of each other.
As both of them were exhausted, they fell into a deep sleep before they knew it.
The next morning,
Bastian and Elise were having their al together on the first floor.
Although it was still early, there were people here having their al.
Today's breakfast was toast, ham and egg.
Water was served too.
To commoners, this might be a little luxurious, but it was normal to nobles.
The two of them were from Belgarias royalty and High Britannia's royalty, they could ask for any kind of luxurious dishes.
Though both of them lack general knowledge.
Be it Bastian or Elise, both were unaccustod to a commoners life, they only knew that a commoner and noble lives were different.
Todays food is delicious too, granny.
Thats what I think too, granny.
Fools! You dont have to keep repeating it, just eat your food.
Suddenly, soone opened the door with great montum.
Bad news!
The man was wearing linen clothes. His right hand was holding the newspaper, while his left hand was holding a frying pan for so reason.
Sothing big happened!
What happened, why all the fuss?
Her Majesty has passed away!
The man raised the newspaper.
High Britannias Queen Charlotte Steelart has passed away, year 42, 15th April midnight.
The royal physician declared that Her Majesty has passed due to a heart disease.
The Silent Week of mourning would start on 16th.
The custors that were here for breakfast were surprised by that.
The granny began to pray.
Bastian looked at Elise, whose face and lips were pale.
W, what should I do, Bastian?
Hey, stay strong!
If If thats the case I couldnt make it on ti
Its different! Didnt the knight said it yesterday, that this was unexpected.
Ah, yes...
Their actions caused a slight commotion.
The custors who were in an uproar and the hotels granny looked at them in surprise.
Bastian hugged Elises shoulder to support her standing up.
Are you able to walk?
Yes...
If possible, Bastian wanted Elise to rest a little longer. Though it could not be helped as people were looking at them, it was not an optimal location to rest.
They moved towards the main streets from the hotel.
To be safe, Bastian wore his sunglasses as it would be troubleso if soone recognised him as a Belgarias royalty.
The bustle streets were filled with many small stalls and tourists.
Though that was a scene from yesterday
Her Majesty!?
News of the death of the queen was spreading.
So were holding newspaper in their hand, while so were crying.
The queen was the symbol of High Britannia, there were many citizens who were depressed as they lost their queen who was a motherly figure to them.
Does Elise feels the sa as them?
Uhh Her Majesty Aunt is a gentle person
This was usually not acceptable in public, but it was different today. Everywhere on the streets, one could observe similar scenes.
Not long after that, Elise cald down.
Wiping her eyes which were red from crying, Elise said in a trembling voice.
Sorry Bastian.
Have you cald down already?
Yes.
You should groom yourself a little. You seem to be tired.
Its fine.
The queen died at night on the 15th. Today is already the 16th.
Bastian nodded.
Confirming that, Bastian continued,
From now till the 22nd, should be the mourning period known as the Silent week, right?
Yes.
Then, the new queen will be decided on the 23rd?
That should be the case, the parliant will declare the new queen on the Dawn of the Declaration.
Elise, you are chosen as the successor, right?:
Yes, take a look at this. She stretched her left hand out. A golden ring engraved with the image of petalwas on her ring finger.
This flower is the symbol of royalty?
The white rose is High Britannias national flower. If I bring this to the capital, where there should be many people who oppose a war, I shouldnt be ignored.
Of course. This is also Queen Charlottes wish.
... However. If its now, there is a possibility that Margaret will beco the new queen.
If I successfully returned to the capital, I will be hindrance to them.
Even with the ring, you cant beco the queen?
Yes, its another matter if the location of the one with the ring is known. If the candidate is missing, she will not be forgiven if others deem that she is being held for private reasons.
Is there any other way
It took half a day when using the train, five days for carriage. If it was on foot, they would not be able to make it even with full seven days.
Bastian sighed.
This journey sure is tough.
It will be nice if the queen announced her candidate.
Perhaps thats what she wanted todo, but she has been waiting as Im still a student.
Ah, is that so?
However because the queens health wasnt good, I was escorted back in a hurry. We should be able to make it in ti if we use the train.
The queens death happened yesterday.
If they set off from Applewood by train, it was likely that they would make it back in ti.
She probably told others about , but with the key personnel gone, they couldnt do anything.
Is that so?
Is it possible to use the train?
I think its impossible, though I want to take a look.
Bastian and Elise walked towards the city central. The black smoke tells the location of the train station.
The tallic sound of wheels rotating.
Steam coming out of the exhaust.
Opposite of the fences was the majestic train.
And the soldiers guarding the station.
So this city also realised that a war is starting soon.
This isnt a ti for jokes, Bastian. No matter how one looks, those are soldiers who were dispatched to find .
I see.
Bastian rescued Elise when she was surrounded by the soldiers at dusk yesterday.
The incident was reported to either so unknown person or princess Margaret, hence more soldiers were dispatched..
Their order, most likely, was to assassinate princess Elizabeth.
Looks like the train is not an option. In any case, lets try and find a carriage on the street.
That will be more appropriate.
Eh?
Bastian looked at Elise who was in deep thought.
...
What is it, do you need to use the toilet?
Huh!? How do you even reach that conclusion!?
S,sorry, looks like Im wrong again.
... Bastian From here on, theres no return, but its still not too late for you to return to the academy.
Bastian tilted his head.
What did you just say?
B,but, the situation now
I already promised that I will definitely bring you to the capital.
But this is dangerous, I believe you only ca to give your work.
That is so, but if you die, then there wont be anyone reading my work anymore. This is more than enough reason to help you.
I dont understand you, Bastian.
Sa here.
Eh?
Im similar to the person called Margaret. Every day is boring So this isnt for you, but for myself. So dont mind it, go ahead and exploit a weird person like .
I cant do that
Ah, here!
Ah?
Bastian grabbed Elises hand and ran.
The main street was now filled with people and soldiers.
They ran to an alley.
That was dangerous. We will probably be seen at the exit of the city.
How can that be!
They ran towards the gap between the buildings, but they were unlucky as they t so soldiers who were having their al in the alley.
The opponents numbered three.
H,hey Could it be that she is princess Elizabeth!?
Stop!
Another person blew a whistle.
The soldiers quickly gathered there.
Bastian grabbed her small hand and started running.
Bastian who has a keen hearingable to detect the armoured soldiers in the forest, was unable to utilise it in this alley.
The soldiers were moving quietly, with no sound of footsteps.
We screwed up!
Bastian, hurry and escape!"
Enough is enough, Elise! How can you, who is carrying the fate of the nation, act like this and worry about !? Who will stop the war if you die!? To protect this peace, you have to live even if you have to eat mud!
Ah
She was reprimanded.
Though an apology would have to wait after they survived this.
They continued running in the alley.
Bastian was not sure how far they ran as he did not morize the map.
A feeling of unease
Most likely, they will catch up with us.
Its like we are entering the centre of their encirclent instead of breaking out.
Elise, keep running! Dont look back! Dont stop! I will definitely protect you!
I understand.
Bastian let go of his hand, believing that she would continue to run.
He was attempting to break through the troops converging on them by force.
As the alley was narrow, the three soldiers were in a single file. They were surprised by Bastians sudden attack.
The enemy who were near the back of a noodle stall raised their guns.
Y,you brat
Bastian took out a dagger. It was an old dagger.
He brought it along when he decided to study oversea.
It was an Emperor Sword.
It belongs to the Belgarias founding emperor, LEmpereur Flam. Seven weapons were created using spirit silver that was granted by spirits themselves.
It was indeed a legendary weapon.
belongs to the second prince Latreille, while Eddie, whose house have been dukes for generations, held .
In addition, was given to the fourth princess Argentina.
The first prince Auguste and the fifth princess Felicia was not given any, one of the reasons was them recuperating.
No matter what, Argentina who is younger than also has it! Even I can be a commander! Probably Bastian thought back then.
Hence, one day before leaving the country, he took it from the treasury.
Of course, it caused a commotion when it was discovered next day.
However, Bastians father, who was the emperor of Belgaria said, It was I who loaned it to him., and ended the incident.
A long sword was not suitable to bring to school. While studying overseas, a dagger was a more convenient weapon.
The dagger was nad Vite Espace Trois
The blade was placed on a beautifully designed scabbard, from its wide base to its point, it drew a long and narrow triangle. The blade's length was about 4 Pa(30cm), about the sa size as L'Empereur Flam's foot.
The double edged dagger was as thin as paper, and it was said that it could execute an action as fast as the speed of sound.
Bastians right hand was holding the dagger.
He was in a good mood.
How incredible.
It feels like I can run faster than normal.
Bastian himself was also surprised when he ran to the enemy in one breath.
Do not point your guns at your own countrys princess, foolish soldiers!
Before the gun could be fired, that arm was cut off.
It did not make a sound even as it cut through the wind.
When the soldier pulled his hand back, his whole arm was already severed.
The three witnessed the slash. Blood was spurt out from the stump. The soldier yelled in pain.
Waaaah!?
The gun dropped to the floor. Bastian imdiately picked it up and fired it towards the three without any hesitation. How is it!? Turn back if you dont want to die!
That was High Britannia latest designed gun.
Reloading was easy and fast, the firepower was strong too. Even so, there was still a need to reload after each shot.
Hence Bastian threw it away after firing.
At the sa ti, he jumped up and continued attacking. He slashed at the enemy, stealing their loaded guns and fired.
Bastian aid and fired at the back of the retreating soldiers This new type of gun had the firepower to even shoot through armour at close distance. Though the soldiers were weak.
?
Soone walked from the depths of the alley
And stopped before Bastian.
At this mont, Elise finally caught up.
Ahah haa Bas ah.
As there was an enemy in front, she avoided calling his na.
The opponent was probably female.
Her black hair was cut neatly above her brow, sharp eyes and her lips were pursed together.
Wearing a High Britannias officer uniform, she was lightly armoured, a long sword and pistol were hanging at her waist. In addition, a dagger was probably hidden on the inner side of her legs.
She placed her gun onto the ground.
The distance between them was at most ten steps. If she were to use the gun, Bastian would reach her first. The opponent most likely understood this.
Bastian broke into a grin.
What is it, youre not going to use it? Perhaps you are soone who is confident about your own strength?
I am Lieutenant Glenda Graham of High Britannia Army First Division. May I know whoyou are?
His back was trembling.
Bastian readjusted his sunglasses.
Kukukuku To the person who nad herself, Im the ssenger of darkness, Chevallier Sombre! Have a taste of the power of darkness that resides in my right arm!
I see, a Belgariane is it?
W, wait ! ... . Im the dark knight! The dark knight!
Glenda drew her sword from her waist.
That ordinary sword could be easily destroyed by Vite Espace Trois.
However, the whitish silver tal was made using High Britannia latest blacksmithing technology.
Are you a foreigner that was bought by money? You shall regret it!
She suddenly attacked after saying that.
Bastian clicked his tongue
Hey hey, she took the initiative? That seems like it. It has been a long while since I had an opponent like her. Youve got to be kidding.
Im not afraid of death! If theres an enemy, I will fight!
Bastian rushed towards Glendas strike.
What!?
Haaaa!
Bastian thrust Vite Espace Trois. .
Hn?
Vite Espace Trois clashed with the longsword. However, that was just a part of a consecutive moves. At the sa ti the swords clashed, a total of three moves were executed. Sparks were created due to that.
An ear piercing sound was produced.
Glendas armour cracked.
Ah!? The new steel armour is!?
So you even place a guard there!
Thanks to that, the cut was not that deep.
Glenda swung her sword, causing Bastian to take a step back, creating so distance between them.
Ah!
Haaaa!
Keeping his legs rooted onto the floor, he used the dagger and received the blow.
The pitch of tal colliding against each other was getting higher and higher.
The distance between their heads was slowly shortened.
Sight locking onto each other.
Bastian clenched his left hand into a fist.
A sound could be heard.
Bastian then punched at his opponents abdon with fist that was harder than stone. Glenda used her gauntlet to block Bastians punch which has the power to suppress a bull, causing her to fly into the air.
What!?
Sleep!
While Glenda was in the air, Bastian sent a kick at her.
Glendas gauntlet cracked.
She used both of her hands to protect herself but was blown away as if she was jumping off a carriage. She was sent flying into a wall.
The wall collapsed after the impact.
Dust began to fly about.
Glenda could not be seen.
Should She be still able to stand? There isnt ti to find out.
Lets go, Elise!
Ah Okay.
Bastian and Elise escaped from Applewood city.
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