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tada-no-honzuki · 1 year

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Ascendance of a Bookworm (29) Part 5 Volume 8 Extra Chapter 2

This translation is not supposed to replace the official releases of the light novel series and is purely made for my own entertainment. Please purchase the official light novel when it becomes available!

Since the title of this chapter contains spoilers, it has been hidden beneath a "read more" for your safety!

[The Battle for Ehrenfest] Brigitte - The Battle of Illgner

"This is Helfried. Brigitte, could you please come to my office?"

I tilted my head in wonder as I received an ordonnanz from my brother, Giebe Illgner. Now that I was married to Victor and the paper-making industry was on track, the number of nobles living in Illgner was gradually increasing. As a result, I was rarely called into the office. The last time was when Lady Rozemyne ordered a large quantity of magic paper.

“Does Lady Rozemyne desire more magic paper?” I mumbled, mostly to myself.

"Helfried even sent an ordonnanz,” my mother replied. “That means it must be urgent, right? I will watch Lilarose for you. Now, don’t make him wait."

My mother smiled and gestured for me to get going. We had been embroidering together in the children’s room. I put my needles and thread away, then looked at my daughter, who was fast asleep in her bed.

"Thank you, mother. I hope Lilarose is a good girl and doesn’t wake while I am away."

I left my one-and-a-half-year-old daughter in the care of my mother and quickly headed to my brother’s office. Just as I arrived, Volk, a former gray priest and trusted aid of my brother, exited the office. Maybe he had heard my footsteps approach?

“Volk, I was called by my brother. May I go in?”

"Of course,” he nodded. “The Giebe is waiting for you. Please come in."

Since Volk had already opened the door for me, I went inside without knocking. I was met by the troubled faces of my husband and brother, who were both reading a letter.

“Brother, what happened?” I inquired.

"It's a letter from Lady Florencia,” Helfried replied. “Apparently, it's been sent to all Giebes."

I accepted the letter and scanned its contents. It informed us that it was highly likely that Lady Georgine of Ahrensbach would be invading Ehrenfest to obtain the foundation, so we were to increase our patrols of the area and contact the castle if we found any suspicious people.

"We received a similar request at the beginning of spring, remember?” Helfried said. “So, we were just wondering how to respond this time."

Last time, we prepared rejuvenation potions in case a battle ensued, but Illgner didn’t have many knights to begin with. Even if they told us to prepare for an invasion from Ahrensbach, there was not much we could do.

“It says it is highly likely, but I don’t get the feeling there is any particular urgency to the request,” Victor remarked. “If Lady Georgine is aiming for the foundation, Illgner holds no value.”

Illgner bordered Ahrensbach only on a small section of land. Although we had acquired some extra funds thanks to the paper-making industry, our land held no strategic value. It was too far from the castle to be used as a base of operations, and most of it bordered Frenbeltag. Attacking Illgner came with the risk of getting Frenbeltag involved as well.

“Besides, if a noble from another duchy crossed the border, the Aub would notice, right?” Victor continued. “Don’t you agree it’s unlikely to cause any issues if we act only once we are notified?”

"For now, I think we should increase the patrols and keep a close eye on the border,” I advised. “How about twice a day? Once during the day and once at night? Personally, I don't think it’s necessary, but I fear we don’t have a choice."

The mana of Ahrensbach’s land seemed to be weakening, and the duchy’s starving commoners often ventured into Illgner’s mountains in search of food. If we were going to keep a close watch on Ahrensbach, we must be wary of its commoners too, and keep them out.

“It is possible the Aub will reprimand us for overlooking certain activities until now,” Volk noted. “I feel sorry for the commoners, but we can’t please everyone. Filling their land with mana is the duty of Ahrensbach’s archducal family and its temple.”

Although Volk grew up in a temple, he was able to cut off the commoners with surprising ease. As we looked at him in surprise, he smiled, looking a little embarrassed.

“It only makes sense that when the situation changes, the treatment of the commoners changes drastically as well,” he explained himself. “It would be in Illgner’s best interest to prioritize the needs of Ehrenfest’s archducal family rather than the wellbeing of another duchy’s commoners. I also believe it would be wise to gather information from the merchants. Lumber traders go all over the place."

Even after discussing things with Victor and Volk, I couldn't think of any options but increasing the frequency of the patrols. Since we wished to prioritize the paper-making industry, our main source of income, it was difficult to maintain a state of heightened vigilance for a long period of time. Especially since we had no idea when and if Lady Georgine would invade the duchy.

"Very well, I shall inform... Oh? An ordonnanz."

Just as I was about to head out and give orders to the few knights Illgner had, an ordonnanz flew into the room. I expected it to head for my brother or Victor, but it landed on my arm.

“This is Rozemyne.”

Lady Rozemyne had been so ill that she had been unable to attend the feast celebrating spring, but it seemed she had recovered. Her voice sounded more mature than I remembered. Although I had no proof, I could tell she had grown.

“Lord Ferdinand is hovering on the verge of death due to Lady Georgine’s scheming and we expect her to use this opportunity to invade Ehrenfest. It seems she has already closed in on the border and may act as early as today or tomorrow. At the latest, it will be a few days from now.”

We exchanged worried looks. If Lady Georgine had already closed in on the border, wouldn’t that make this an emergency? Lady Rozemyne’s message conveyed an urgency that hadn’t been present in Lady Florencia’s letter. I could also tell how worried she was about us. On top of that, Lady Rozemyne even added some pointers should it come to a confrontation.

"Be very careful when the enemy is dressed in silver-colored clothes. Mana cannot penetrate this cloth. I advise you to carry weapons like the ones that commoners use at all times, since schtappe-made weapons and mana attacks have no effect. It is also possible they will utilize a powdered type of poison. Please cover your mouth with a piece of cloth. Lady Georgine will likely travel by carriage rather than highbeast if she intends to operate in the shadows. Be sure to gather information from your province’s commoners, and keep in close contact with the other Giebe along the border. Grandfather is ready to provide backup at any moment. If you notice any border irregularities, contact us immediately."

After repeating the same message three times, the ordonnanz turned back into a yellow feystone. We stared at the feystone that had warned us of the impending danger in a daze.

"That sounded quite different from Lady Florencia’s letter...” Victor muttered.

"It would be best to send a patrol out at once,” Helfried concluded. “It sounds like she will be here in a few days at the latest."

“I shall intensify my training so that I may participate in the battle.”

I had resumed training when we were informed of the impending threat in early spring, but I had been absent for a long time due to pregnancy and childbirth, so I was far from my peak fighting strength. Still, we needed as many knights as possible so we might protect Illgner and our families. The more hours of training I had under my belt, the better.

“Brigitte, I understand your enthusiasm, but please send a reply to Lady Rozemyne first,” Victor pointed out. “She likely shared this information with you because you used to be her retainer. Although you are no longer in her service, she is clearly still worrying about you.”

I immediately sent an ordonnanz to Lady Rozemyne to thank her. It reminded me of the days when I served her, and it warmed my heart to know that she still thought of me.

“This is Brigitte. We received an ordonnanz from Lady Florencia earlier, but she didn’t relay nearly as many details. I would like to thank you for the additional and valuable information. We shall keep in contact with the other Giebe and ask our citizens to keep an eye out.”

As I watched the ordonnanz fly away, my brother placed several ordonnanz stones on his desk.

“Brigitte, may I ask you to send the ordonnanzes to the other Giebe as well? The urgency of the matter would be better conveyed if they received it from you, since you directly served Lady Rozemyne.”

Since Lady Florencia's letter did not convey a sense of urgency, our warning might be ignored. However, since I used to serve Lady Rozemyne, they would likely take it seriously if I told them, “I received an urgent message from Lady Rozemyne”.

As I sent the ordonnanzes, the men in the room started discussing our next step. If Lady Georgine might commence her attack as soon as today, where should we start? There were many things to consider.

"It's important to gather information from the commoners,” Victor said. “But shouldn't we first warn those going into the mountains? It will be trouble if they come face-to-face with knights from another duchy."

“We have secured enough food to sustain a siege for a few days and the evacuation site is ready, but please consider how to guide the commoners as well,” Volk added.

"Let's issue a warning to stay away from the mountains near the border until we receive further information about Lady Georgine.” Helfried proposed. “We should have more information within a few days."

I took a deep breath as I realized that the men were only focused on protecting the commoners. While it may be the right thing to do for a Giebe, the knights would not be able to act unless they also considered what came before.

“Brother, I agree that evacuating the commoners is important, but whether Ahrensbach launches a large-scale attack at the border, or stealthily invades with a small number of people to acquire the foundation, will greatly affect the number of knights we must keep on guard duty and send out on patrols. Won't that also impact the number of people available to assist with the evacuation?”

“Brigitte, I understand what you're trying to say,” Victor said while looking at a map of Ehrenfest. “But at this point, we don't know how they are going to attack. If they intend to attack Ehrenfest from Ahrensbach, it is far more likely that they will invade through Gerlach, Wiltord, Garduhn, or Griebel. I doubt they will come all the way out to Illgner.”

If one considered the small stretch of land bordering Ahrensbach, it was certainly unlikely that we would be a target. My brother seemed to have the same idea. However, we could not let our guard down.

"Victor, I understand your point,” I countered. “But Illgner has fewer nobles and a weaker defense. If Lady Georgine is aware, it is possible we may be besieged to create a diversion."

"A diversion... "

“I see,” my brother said. “It seems like Lord Bonifatius is ready to provide aid, but we cannot say with certainty how long it will take for our request to be approved by the Aub, the orders to be issued, and the knights to be ready for departure.”

"Yes,” I agreed. “And on top of that, no matter how fast they fly, it will take them a whole day to arrive. In the meantime, we will be on our own."

As Lady Rozemyne’s former guard knight, I was the one who knew the most about the inner workings of the knight’s order. The more I thought about it, the more I realized how dangerous it would be if Illgner was targeted. Victor seemed to understand the danger we were in after my explanation.

“If prompt discovery and communication are the key, then we should increase the frequency of our patrols.” Victor agreed. “The situation isn’t likely to last more than a few days. If we only increase the patrols near the border, we should be able to achieve it with the bare minimum of people."

My brother nodded, “If our enemy aims to acquire the foundation, they will likely hurry along without slaughtering the commoners. I want you to focus on minimizing the casualties as much as possible and buying time until the reinforcements arrive.”

I immediately headed to the training grounds to inform the knights.

" ...And that's why we must increase our patrols near the border,” I explained. “I shall assist as well. Did last night's patrol notice anything of note?"

"There have been no reports of unusual activities, neither last night nor this morning," the commander of Illgner’s knights assured me. I immediately felt a wave of relief wash over me.

“Lady Rozemyne said to expect movement in the next few days,” I warned. “So, please be careful when patrolling at night. If they are planning to sneak across the border, they will likely act under the cloak of darkness.”

“It would be helpful if they would stealthily pass through when the commoners are asleep. Then we would only have to inform the archducal family…”

Our knights specialized in hunting feybeasts. Outside of practical lessons at the Royal Academy, they had no experience fighting other people. Besides, there were only fifteen adult knights in Illgner. Even if I included the apprentices and myself, we still had less than twenty people. I completely understood their reluctance to go up against a greater duchy.

“That certainly would be great,” I agreed. “But in that case, they would probably pass through Griebel instead of Illgner. There is no guarantee that the enemy will appear in our province, but let’s stay alert.”

"Indeed,” the commander nodded. “I plan to entrust the real fighting to the reinforcements from the noble’s district. Though, I would like them to hold back on using destructive magic tools if possible."

If our mountains and forests were destroyed, that would greatly impact the paper-making industry. So, avoiding battles that used large numbers of destructive magic tools was certainly preferable.

"Regardless of the enemy’s plans, if you are joining the fight, Lady Brigitte, that will make it easier for us to contact the Giebe. Not to mention, you are a mednoble and thus a valuable battle asset."

It was decided the patrols would focus on the area near the border with Ahrensbach. We were on good terms with Frenbeltag, and Lady Rozemyne had not included them in her warnings, so it was safe to assume we would not be invaded from that side. I accompanied the squads on their rounds, but nothing of note happened that day.

The next afternoon, I and five other knights were out patrolling the border on our highbeasts, when I noticed a change in the scenery.

"Don't you think the shape of that ridge looks different?" I asked as I pointed at the mountain ahead.

I wasn’t quite sure how to put it, but it seemed like an abnormal dip in a part of the tree line, or rather, like an unnatural dent in the gentle curves of the ridge.

"Let's have a closer look."

Sensing something was off, we cautiously approached. As we got closer, I quickly noticed almost all the trees on the opposite side of the mountain, next to Ahrensbach’s border, had disappeared. The bare, reddish-brown soil reminded me of the aftermath of a trombe attack.

“Just what on earth is going on!?” I exclaimed while squinting my eyes to get a better look. At the same moment, more trees disappeared up ahead. As I stared at the empty spot in a daze, unable to comprehend what just happened, two of the knights cried out.

"Look over there! I see people!"

"Those are Ahrensbach's capes!"

Several people could be seen standing atop the center of the reddish-brown soil. When I noticed they were all carrying black weapons, an audible gasp escaped my lips.

"Black weapons can be used to steal mana from dark feybeasts,” I said. “Maybe they can be used to steal mana from the land as well."

Since the archducal family had contacted us, we had mentally prepared ourselves for the possibility of an invasion. However, we had not seen this coming. We had not expected the enemy would try to steal mana from our land, rather than head straight for the foundation.

“If they were just trying to pass through Illgner, we could have watched from a distance,” I muttered in shock. “However, we cannot sit back and watch as mana is stolen from our land and the trees are disappearing before our very eyes.”

If they took our trees, that would greatly affect the paper-making industry. Moreover, most commoners relied on the blessings of the mountains for their meals. Not to mention, if it rained, the flow of the rivers could change as well. In the worst case, life in Illgner could be destroyed.

"I count four,” one of the knights said. “Shall we attack?"

"...no.” I shook my head. “Let's head back and request the Aub to send reinforcements. If there are any people hiding out of sight, we will be outnumbered."

Just then, arrows came flying at us. Our enemy was swiftly making way for the tree line while attacking us to keep us at a distance.

"They spotted us! We are under attack!"

"Kill them before they can hide! "

"Mana attacks will be absorbed by their black weapons!” I warned. “Be careful!"

Since the area was already devoid of trees and had turned a reddish-brown hue, there was no issue in using offensive magic tools. We flew overhead and dropped magic tools from above. Two of the intruders disarmed their black weapons and readied their shields.

"Once they disarm their weapons, it will take about a day before they can use the blessing again!” I shouted. “Attack with the intent to make them cancel it and use their shields!"

Without the darkness's blessing, they would not be able to steal mana from the land, at least for today. As everyone readied themselves to attack, a gasp escaped my throat when I detected numerous mana signatures approaching.

“There are more units nearby!” I alerted the others. “I can feel their mana! They are swiftly approaching us!”

The fact was, the unit before us already had the upper hand strength-wise. On top of that, they were about to regroup with other units nearby. It was abundantly clear we were at an overwhelming disadvantage. Try as we might, there was no chance of winning. In fact, we would likely lose our only chance to retreat.

"Don't pursue the enemy!” I shouted. “We shall retreat for now!"

While sending an ordonnanz to my brother to warn him, we returned to the summer mansion.

“Brother, Lady Rozemyne was right! The enemy is here! Not only are they draining the mana from our land, but we are also dealing with a large number of people spread out over a wide area. We cannot deal with it by ourselves. Please request the Aub to send reinforcements."

When I arrived at my brother's office with the commander, he and Victor were already waiting for us with a map of Illgner spread out on the table.

"I immediately sent the request after receiving your ordonnanz,” Helfried replied. “It seems Lord Bonifatius will lead the support unit. However, considering how much damage has been done in such a short period of time, I wonder if Illgner will last until reinforcements arrive. Brigitte, what is your opinion as a knight?”

In this case, simply scattering the enemy would not be enough. It was important that we limit the amount of damage to a level that would not interfere with the lives of Illgner’s people.

“The enemies we encountered were acting in small units, but I could sense mana everywhere around us. Even if we gathered all our knights, I cannot say for certain how long we would be able to stall for time. Neither can I predict how much damage will be done to the land until reinforcements arrive.”

If their sole purpose was to drain mana from the land, we could limit the number of human casualties by staying quiet and holing up. However, Illgner’s land would be devastated.

" ...those were nobles from old Werkestock."

"What?"

“I remember them from my time at the Royal Academy,” the commander explained. “The one they were protecting is a Giebe from old Werkestock.”

The frequency at which we found commoners from old Werkestock and Ahrensbach invade our mountains in search of food made it abundantly clear that their lands were lacking mana. However, I had never expected that a Giebe of all people would invade another duchy to steal mana.

“If this invasion is headed by a Giebe of a mana-deficient duchy, and has the support of Lady Georgine, they won’t give up easily,” I observed.

As a member of the Giebe’s family, I understood their desire to have enough mana to fertilize their land and feed their starving people very well. I could tell neither of us would back down.

“Both Old Werkestock and Ahrensbach are greater duchies, and we are greatly outnumbered,” the commander said. “It is only a matter of time before we are overrun. But even so, we have no choice but to stand our ground until Lord Bonifatius and the reinforcements arrive. That said, I would like to avoid casualties among the younger generations as much as possible.” He let out a deep sigh.

"Whatever will become of us if we cannot count on Illgner’s knights to protect the lives of the province’s people?” I asked, then added, “I will fight too."

"Brigitte, wait," Victor said, his face as white as a sheet. He shook his head in disbelief. "You are no longer a knight. You are a member of the Giebe’s family and Lilarose's mother. For your daughter’s sake, please do not rush into a battle that the commander himself deems reckless. Haven't you been away from training for a while due to giving birth and nursing our child? Right now, you are more vulnerable than the other knights."

I understood what Victor was trying to say. However, I did not agree with him.

"I am a member of the Giebe’s family and a knight,” I declared. “Isn't it natural that I go out and protect Illgner? If I back out, it will affect morale."

"But... " Victor tried.

"I won’t be in any more danger than the other knights,” I said. “Moreover, the reason I resigned as Lady Rozemyne’s guard knight and got married was to protect Illgner. I have no intention of backing down from the fight to protect it now."

Although I was no longer her guard knight and there was a long distance between Ehrenfest and Illgner, Lady Rozemyne still looked out for us. She continued to support our paper-making industry and had provided us with valuable information. Although I only served her for a short period of time, I was greatly indebted to her. More than anything, I wanted to be a knight who Lady Rozemyne would be proud of.

“Besides, if I can’t even protect Illgner here, I won’t be able to protect Lilarose either,” I stated. “Suppose I was to perish in this battle, Lilarose still has you, her father, my brother, and my mother to protect her. Illgner, on the other hand, has very few knights to protect its land. I will entrust our daughter to you. So, please let me go. "

Victor looked at my brother with a pained expression, but my brother shook his head.

“I'm sorry, Victor,” he said apologetically. “As a Giebe, I want as many knights as I can get. Besides, I cannot keep my sister away from battle because it might be dangerous, while at the same time demanding the other knights risk their lives on the battlefield. Brigitte, if you wish to fight to protect Illgner, I will respect that. ... although I pray you won’t do anything too reckless.”

Hearing my brother's words, Victor hung his head and sighed.

"As much as I hate it, you truly are a knight at heart. I understand your desire to protect Illgner and your pride as a knight. However, you are also Lilarose's mother. Don’t be reckless. Stay aware of your surroundings and retreat if necessary. We are just trying to buy time.”

Watching Victor concede to my desire, the commander smiled wryly.

"Lady Brigitte, please don't disregard everyone's concerns. The fewer the casualties, the better. As Lord Victor says, buying time is our top priority. If we can make them cancel the darkness blessing, that will be enough. Let's work together to get every last one of them."

While we were discussing how to make our enemies cancel the blessing and what magical tools might be useful, an ordonnanz flew in.

"This is Bonifatius. I have received the Aub’s permission to use the teleportation circle. I will arrive at fifth bell. Clear the area around the teleportation circle in the front yard of your estate, and have your knights ready to depart. We will head into battle as soon as I arrive."

After repeating the same message three times, the ordonnanz turned back into a yellow feystone. Even then, I still couldn't believe its message.

“Hold on, fifth Bell?” I asked confused. “He means today? And they will use a teleportation circle? To teleport a whole unit of knights?”

We had discovered the enemy when we set out on patrol after lunch. After we returned, we immediately reported to my brother, so we had yet to formally inform the other knights. Yet now we were told that the reinforcements would be arriving within less than a bell.

“Isn’t fifth bell about to ring!” Helfried shouted in panic. “Where is that teleportation circle!? What is the front yard!?”

"Please calm down, Lord Helfried,” Victor said. “The front yard is the front yard."

“Lady Brigitte, we should inform the knights!” The commander interjected. “At this rate, we won’t be ready to head into battle!”

My steadfast resolve was instantly blown away. First, we had to prepare Illgner to receive the reinforcements, and those of us who went on patrol needed to recover and prepare for the next battle.

As reported by the ordonnanz, right as fifth bell rang, a magic circle appeared in the front yard. Black and golden flames whirled around, and figures started appearing. I had been told that the magic circle connected to the Royal Academy could only transport three people at a time, but I could see the shadows of about fifty people in this teleportation circle.

Once the flickering of the flames subsided, the knights exited the teleportation circle in an orderly manner with Lord Bonifatius in the lead. However, a group of at least ten people remained in place. When he noticed the person standing at the center, my brother cried out in surprise.

“Aub Ehrenfest!?”

We had known that reinforcements would arrive by teleportation circle, but we had not expected the Aub would be accompanying them. As our eyes widened in surprise, Aub Ehrenfest calmly gestured us to calm down, “There is no need to panic. This teleportation circle can only be activated by me, so I had to come along to deliver the reinforcements. I will be returning at once."

"Aub Ehrenfest, I cannot thank you enough for your kind consideration. I didn't even know that there was a teleportation circle like this."

As my brother expressed his gratitude, the Aub nodded lightly.

"Neither did I,” he admitted. “Until Rozemyne mentioned its existence. This battle is the first time I am using it. She read about it in some old book it seems. I am sure you have heard she has been busy reviving ancient magic circles and rituals recorded in the bible and other old literature. That appears to have led to the discovery of this teleportation circle.”

“Lady Rozemyne… ” I whispered.

How could I ever express my gratitude? If not for Lady Rozemyne, this teleportation circle would likely never have been discovered and Lord Bonifatius probably would not have been able to reach us in time.

"Giebe Illgner,” the Aub continued. “These men here are just scholars I brought along to activate the teleportation circle. They aren’t part of the reinforcements."

Apparently, the people who remained standing on the teleportation circle were providing the mana necessary for the Aub to return.

“I cannot send any more people at the moment. So, Illgner is in your hands now.”

I decided to leave it to my brother to see the Aub off, and headed over to Lord Bonifatius, who was giving instructions to the knights.

"Those who assisted with the teleportation will stay here for now. Prioritize your recovery. The rest of you will follow me. Now, who is in charge on Illgner’s side? I want to know what we are dealing with."

"Lord Bonifatius, please allow me to explain,” I said. “We happened upon the enemy while we were out patrolling the border."

"Ah, Brigitte. It's been a while."

In truth, this would have been the job of the commander of Illgner’s knights, but he begged me to take his place, noting, “I'm much too nervous to talk to a member of the archducal family. Who knows what kind of mistakes I will make.” Since I had received special training from Lord Bonifatius as Lady Rozemyne’s guard knight, the idea of having a direct conversation with him did not bother me.

"I see,” Lord Bonifatius nodded. “Those black weapons certainly spell trouble. Not only can they drain mana from the land, but our mana attacks will also work to our opponent’s advantage. It would be better if we used metal weapons. Come to think of it, were they dressed in silver cloth?”

"No, as far as we know they aren’t,” I replied. “Since they can counter our mana attacks with their black weapons, there probably was no need to use silver cloth."

"Since the Aub has been unable to detect their crossing the border, I guess there is a high possibility they do own it though... " Lord Bonifatius mulled. After thinking it over for a moment, he nodded.

"It's not a bad idea to prioritize canceling the blessing. Moreover, it is likely that they are using small chalices too, I have been told. That way they can use the stolen mana to revitalize their land. All right, let's go."

Perhaps Lady Rozemyne had told him that too? I remembered the days when I accompanied Lady Rozemyne across the duchy to perform rituals. Small chalices were divine tools used to fill the land with mana, but it seems that in the hands of the wrong people, they could be used to steal mana from the land as well.

Lord Bonifatius set out, leaving behind the knights who were still drinking rejuvenation potions.

... yes, Illgner will be fine now.

The battle was only just beginning. Even so, the thought of having Lord Bonifatius with us was reassuring, and for some reason made me believe everything would be okay.

... first, I would like to recover the mana that was bestowed onto Illgner by my master and the temple.

“Lord Bonifatius, it’s over there. …it seems more land has been drained of mana.”

As I guided Lord Bonifatius towards the border, I couldn't help but feel frustrated seeing the barren spots of land.

"Can any of you feel the enemy's mana?" Lord Bonifatius asked.

" ...maybe if we fly a little lower," I suggested,

Mana could not be detected if the distance was too large. As I began to lower my altitude, I noticed some trees disappearing out of the corner of my eye.

“Over there!” I shouted.

"Follow me and seize the chalices!" Lord Bonifatius instructed the knights, then immediately sped up, charging the enemy alone.

I saw a schtappe appear in Lord Bonifatius’ hand while he was clearly anticipating the enemy’s route of escape. Even though he had ordered the knights to use non-schtappe weapons to counter the black ones, he changed his own into a halberd.

“Lord Bonifatius!?”

We could not help but cry out in surprise. While we still had no idea what he was aiming for, Lord Bonifatius raised his halberd in the air.

“Lord Bonifatius!?” One of the enemies shouted. “What is he doing here!?”

"Don't stop!” Another yelled. “Counter his mana with your black weapon!"

“Protect the Giebe!”

“Spread out and run!”

To the enemy, it must have been looking like he was attacking them head-on, as they started to scatter in confusion. That’s when Lord Bonifatius brought his halberd down.

"Hmph!"

His mana attack was not aimed directly at the enemy, but instead hit the tree line along their path of escape. Shredding the trees to pieces, causing roughly chopped logs and thick branches to rain down upon their heads.

"Holy shit!"

"Entwafn ... ugh!"

Their black weapons had no effect on the mana-less pieces of wood, nor did they have enough time to cancel the blessing and bring out their shield. Soon, the enemy was buried under a thick pile of logs and branches.

"Don't let them escape!" Lord Bonifatius ordered as we caught up to him.

From there, everything went fast. Most of the people buried under the trees were seriously injured, and even those with minor injuries were unable to make their escape, so they were easily captured.

"I found the chalices! We can return the mana to our land!"

After we stripped the captured Giebe of his possessions and seized the small chalices, joyous shouts of victory emerged from Illgner’s knights.

However, the battle did not end there. Last time, the enemies present in the surrounding area had rallied together to aid their friends. However, this time, they immediately scattered and ran away in fear of Lord Bonifatius’ might.

"We have told Frenbeltag to be on guard, so the enemies’ options for escape are limited,” Lord Bonifatius said. “They are not particularly strong, but if they spread out, it will be enough to prolong the battle. Creating a diversion to keep the knight’s order occupied must be their true aim. Not to mention, their number is smaller than expected.”

I noticed a bitter expression on his face as he spoke. The attack would not destroy Ilgner, but it was intense enough that Illgner’s knights could not deal with it alone. And since the land's mana was being drained, the archducal family had no choice but to respond.

Unfortunately, Lord Bonifatius had been completely right. The next day, the enemies that fled from Illgner started showing up in Griebel.

"Griebel has also requested reinforcements.” Lord Bonifatius announced. “So, we will head for Griebel while mopping up enemies along Illgner's border. Brigitte, you and your men will stay right here!"

"Yes, sir!" I replied.

It was decided that Illgner’s knights would remain camped near the border to prevent a new invasion. Lord Bonifatius promised he would leave some of his knights behind, but to be honest, it was disheartening to see him leave.

"Don't worry,” he said with a confident grin. “I'll give you a good view, so you can focus on protecting the border. If you are overwhelmed, inform me at once."

Lord Bonifatius and his knights unleashed powerful mana attacks on Ahrensbach’s land, mowing down the trees on the other side of the border bit by bit as they moved toward Griebel.

"I see. The view has become much better indeed."

"The enemy can no longer hide, but they may shamelessly attack from the sky. So, let's remain vigilant."

As Lord Bonifatius had said, their purpose was to keep the knights occupied, so the enemies showing up from time to time were not that strong.

"Lady Brigitte, I have something to report,” one of the knight apprentices said to me while we were between battles. “I wanted to inform the Giebe directly, but since a mobilization order was issued, I have instead come to you... It seems that a lumber merchant who traveled to Leisegang by boat to make a delivery noticed some strange noble-looking people trying to board a ship to Ehrenfest while he was there.”

As I listened to the rest of the apprentice’s report, I felt cold sweat start dripping down my back. It had been two days since the lumber merchant saw the people who appeared to be nobles. Even if it was a merchant ship that made stops along the way, there was a possibility that it had already arrived in Ehrenfest.

“I must contact Lady Rozemyne at once!”

However, the ordonnanz I tried to send her immediately turned around.

...don’t tell me Lady Rozemyne is…!

I held my breath as my mind jumped to the worst possible explanation. Ordonnanzes would refuse to fly if the receiver was dead. With trembling hands, I tried sending an ordonnanz to Cornelius and Angelica,

"This is Brigitte. What's the situation over there?”

To my despair, both returned to my hand.

“Then, what about Damuel…?”

Contrary to my fears, the ordonnanz I sent to him soared away as normal. And soon his response arrived.

“We are still waiting for the enemy to make a move.”

His voice sounded as nonchalant as ever, as if nothing was amiss.

I had been fighting for days on end and scared out of my mind at the prospect that Lady Rozemyne might have perished along with her guard knights. Hearing Damuel’s carefree voice made an indescribable anger well up inside me.

I was aware in the back of my mind that I was being irrational. However, if Ehrenfest wasn’t under attack, then why didn’t my ordonnanzes fly? The lack of rest between battles was probably to blame for my heightened emotional state, and in addition, I suppose part of me felt that I was allowed to be casual with him like we used to. So, the reply I sent was dripping with anger.

“Then why can’t I reach anyone by ordonnanz!? I have vital information to report! Where are Lady Rozemyne, Cornelius, and Angelica?”

After that, I included the report from the lumber merchant, and concluded with, “Since we are still under attack, we do not have the leeway to investigate when the ship will arrive. Please make the inquiries yourself and stay on guard.”

"We shall contact Leisegang,” Damuel replied. “Thank you for providing this valuable information in the midst of a tough battle. ... Oh , and Lady Rozemyne and the others are in Ahrensbach, so ordonnanzes won't be able to reach them."

Without even naming my unreasonable anger, Damuel casually told me Lady Rozemyne's whereabouts. I felt so embarrassed that I was the only one getting emotional that my anger slowly began to subside. Once I calmed down, I realized that even Lord Bonifatius had not mentioned the information Damuel had shared with me.

...Lady Rozemyne is in Ahrensbach?

I remembered the Aub had said that he couldn't send any more reinforcements. So, it made sense that even Lady Rozemyne was fighting to protect Ehrenfest.

...it sounds like she is still giving it her all.

I remembered the days she would fight alongside us to collect the materials for her jureve. Although a normal archduke candidate would leave it all to their guard knights, Lady Rozemyne joined the battles despite her frail body, and while falling asleep from exhaustion. Ever since then, Lady Rozemyne hadn't been just a little girl that needed to be protected.

...the people around her seem to have changed though.

Back then, it was me, Damuel, Lord Ferdinand, and his retainers fighting alongside her. Cornelius and Angelica, who were minors at the time, were made to stay behind at the castle. Now that they were adults, she would be taking new guard knights in. I left due to my marriage, and Lord Ferdinand and his retainers moved to Ahrensbach due to his engagement.

I suddenly felt the passage of time as I realized that not only the people surrounding Lady Rozemyne had changed, but my position as well. I was no longer protecting Lady Rozemyne, I was fighting for Illgner and my family now. Although, my desire to protect what was important to me had not changed. If Lady Rozemyne was fighting to protect Ehrenfest, then as her former guard knight, I could not afford to muck around. Through fighting and winning the battle at this border, I would be able to help Lady Rozemyne protect Ehrenfest.

“Lady Brigitte, we have spotted the enemy!”

I jumped to my feet at the sound of the knight's voice. The other knights also mounted their highbeasts, reeling with fighting spirit.

...Good luck to you, Lady Rozemyne. I will do all I can to protect Illgner.

#Ascendance of a Bookworm #P5V8 #Translation

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ship-of-skitties · 11 months

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brother (gn) my thoughts have distilled and im going to pretend to live in the prohibition and drink it excessively

what if that charm was just the contract to karstedt?

so first, bezewanst is executed instead on massive counts of embezzlement and forgery, veronica is likely put on house arrest and fined heavily, and bindewald is either executed or used as leverage in negotiations with Ahrensbach for assaulting a noble after forging a permit to do so.

but let's get to the fun stuff.

winter debut time.

it goes the same, but keep in mind, wilfried hasn't learned a thing. He's still illiterate. Can't really do anything! Massive loss to the Veronica faction! especially when someone Florencian right before him did exceedingly well.

cut to year 10, RA year! no 2 year jureve since no reason for the kidnapping. just. kinda long jureve.

wilfried is. well. no-one really likes him. he's not studying and can still be near veronica since she isn't Dead

schwartz and weiss still happen because. library and books which means DITTER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! also happens.

after ditter, dunkelfelger are like Hey We Should Adopt Ferdinand's Disciple.

and because i say so, ehrenfest can't really refuse the second ranked duchy

so get Dunkelfelger'd

Plantin has to move, not sure abt other gutenbergs

and that's where my thoughts end

#ascendance of a bookworm #archnoble au

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ascendance-bookworm · 2 years

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Yurgenschmidt (6) Ahrensbach

- - - (6th Rank) Ahrensbach (Light Purple Cloaks) - - -

Size ◈ Greater

Cape Color ◈ Light Purple

Key Crest Components ◈ Unicorn

Cultural Notes ◈ A duchy of trade. At the moment, it has the only open country gate in Yurgenschmidt.

- - - Archduke Family - - -

Aub Ahrensbach [ family tree ] - 1st wife Lady Georgine (frm 3rd wife) - Detlinde (daughter) - (adopted) Letizia (granddaughter)

Aub Ahrensbach younger brother - 3rd wife - Aurelia (daughter) - Martina (daughter)

Aub Ahrensbach, Lord Gieselfried

dying of some mysterious illness

desperate to right his duchy with a new successor

determined to stabilize his duchy he petitions for Ferdinand to marry his daughter Detlinde to help her administer the duchy

also wants Ferdinand to educate his successor, his granddaughter Letizia

POV Chapters

LN16 - Part 4, Volume 4 - Epilogue

Lady Georgine

third wife to Aub Ahrensbach, made first wife after the pervious first wife died

older sister of Sylvester

was trained to be the Aub of Ehrenfest but was passed over in favor of Sylvester

is working to undermine Sylvester with the former Veronica faction nobles in Ehrenfest

has many loyal name-sworn nobles in Ehrenfest

Lady Detlinde

Lady Georgine’s youngest daughter

golden blond hair, green eyes

(year 1) 4th year archduke candidate

antagonistic towards Rosemyne

(year 2) 5th year archduke candidate

is tasked with becoming the temporary Aub Ahrensbach until Letizia comes of age

is engaged to Ferdinand by orders of her father and the Zent

(year 3) 6th year archduke candidate

Part 5, Volume 2, Prologue

“Lady Detlinde is not nearly educated enough for us to work under her,” one said. “By the time she catches up, I expect Lady Letizia will have come of age.”

“We might have thought otherwise if she at least took the work seriously,” added another, “but, oh, how she hates studying. Though she may only be a temporary archduchess, I would expect a bit more... well...”

“She is underage. Plus, as the third child of a third wife, she has not had the opportunity to receive a political education before now. It would be cruel of us to demand too much from her.”

POV Chapters

LN20 - Part 4, Volume 8 - Epilogue

Lady Letizia

(year 2) 6 years old

adopted granddaughter, current successor to Aub Ahrensbach

(year 3) 7 years old, baptized

currently making noble connections in Ahrensbach

being tutored by Ferdinand

engaged to marry Prince Hildebrand when they come of age

Lady Aurelia

recent graduate from the academy

older daughter of the last Aubs 2nd son’s, 3rd wife

recently married Myne’s brother Lamprecht

looks a lot like Lady Veronica / Gabrielle so always wears a veil because she is afraid of causing offense to the people in Ehrenfest

POV Chapters

LN17 - Part 4, Volume 5 - Extra - Reaching a Crossroads

Lady Martina

younger daughter of the 2nd son’s, 3rd wife

attendant to Detlinde

resembles Tuuli

- - - Notable People - - -

Lord Raimund

mednoble scholar, low mana

disciple of Hirschur and Ferdinand

good at modifying magical tools to use less mana

admires Ferdinand and wants to become his retainer one day

Part 5, Volume 2, Prologue (Ferdinand)

Initially, Ferdinand had spoken to Raimund simply because Rozemyne had taken a liking to the young student. He had then accepted him as a disciple as a means of observing him while simultaneously gathering information on Ahrensbach. By this point, however, Ferdinand found reading his unique perspectives and answering his questions by letter a source of great comfort.

Sergius

Ahrensbach attendant assigned to Ferdinand

yellow-eyes

Count Bindewald

working with dissidents (Veronica/Georgine faction) in Ehrenfest

friend of the former High Bishop Bezewanst

tried to force Myne to sign a submission (slave) contract

was captured by Ferdinand and Sylvester and held for questioning

Professor Fraularm

Academy Dormitory Advisor, Scholar course

hates Rozemyne and Ehrenfest

her little sister was married to Count Bindewald, blames Rozemyne for that incident [LN23]

working with Lady Georgine

- - - Duchy Notes - - -

Part 5, Volume 2, Prologue (Ferdinand)

The purge had seen the second wife’s two sons reduced to archnobles, Detlinde’s older brother had perished in an unfortunate accident, and Aub Ahrensbach had died before Letizia (his oldest daughter’s daughter) came of age. Detlinde was thus having to serve as a temporary archduchess.

As there was no Lord of Winter to hunt in Ahrensbach, the duchy’s knights did not put special effort into their training.

Those in Ahrensbach had no need to socialize intensely and gather information before the snow grew unreasonably heavy. Adults in particular were afforded a lot more flexibility; nobles rarely spent all day in the castle, and children accompanied their guardians while socializing instead of spending that time in the winter playroom. Even the archduke candidate Letizia, whom Ferdinand was working to educate, had prioritized strengthening bonds with the others in her faction.

Ahrensbach nobles came together in the afternoon, when it was warmer. During the winter, they tended to stay inside until fourth bell and start their day after lunch—unless they were invited to lunch, that is. In contrast, during the summer when the sun beat down mercilessly, nobles barely went outside between third and fifth bell.

- - - Updated January 16, 2023 - - -

These are just my quick notes to remember important info and/or passages as I read the series. I updated it as I read each volume and find new info I want add. I try and remember to mark each piece of info with at least the LN# for reference. If you find a mistake, or think I need to add something else, please leave a comment and I’ll add it.

#ascendance of a bookworm #honzuki no gekokujou #bookworm light novel #Work In Progress #bookworm notes #duchy ahrensbach

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recentanimenews · 3 years

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Ascendance of a Bookworm: I’ll Do Anything to Become a Librarian!, Part 4: Founder of the Royal Academy’s So-Called Library Committee, Vol. 5

By Miya Kazuki and You Shiina. Released in Japan as “Honzuki no Gekokujou: Shisho ni Naru Tame ni wa Shudan wo Erandeiraremasen” by TO Books. Released in North America by J-Novel Club. Translated by quof.

I feel this volume is almost deceptively relaxing. On the one hand, everything goes pretty well. Rozemyne does not make social faux-pas that can’t be glossed over somehow. There is an ambush to try to kill her… but she’s nowhere near it and it’s thwarted immediately. There’s a wedding to a woman from an enemy duchy… but she turns out to be a big sweetie pie who just has a case of resting “I look just like my ancestor who nearly destroyed you all” face. That last one, though, hints at the undercurrents we see in this book that I suspect are going to pay off in big explosions down the line. We’ve talked before about how the class system in this series is not going away anytime soon, but that also means that the nobility are going to be what nobility tend to do, which is find ways to quietly murder each other. Time to pick a side. Meanwhile, Rozemyne wants fish.

The author admits in the afterword that this cover (and indeed most of the covers in the series) is theme related rather than specifying actual events. In this case it’s the dyeing competition that Rozemyne is holding in order to introduce the new techniques (and bring back the old, forgotten techniques), and it turns out that Myne’s mother Effa is one of the contestants. Elsewhere, they’re setting up the printing business in the Groschel area, but the way that the nobility treats the commoners who live there turns out to not only be arrogant but also have legitimate negative effects on the printing. And then there’s the aforementioned marriage, as Lamprecht is marrying a woman from the far, far higher in status Ahrensbach district. It’s a political move, yes, but fortunately there seems to be actual love there as well. Finally, Rozemyne heads back to school to start Year 2 at the Academy, where she will face even more problems… not least of which is that the young prince of the realm has confused her for her younger sister.

As I noted above, Rozemyne is getting better at this. She still screws up enough to make Ferdinand (who is in this book far less than usual) smack his forehead, but that’s mostly just when she’s fantasizing about her ideal library, which would require more magic than there is in the world. She can do the meet and greets and keep up with the nobility, and has learned to translate when they’re being condescending, rude or threatening. The best example of this is her discussion with Aurelia, the bride I mentioned before. She screws up in that she’s not supposed to speak directly to the bride in her position… but she doesn’t bat an eyelid as she immediately says she was just talking to herself out loud, and she AND Aurelia then proceed to have an entire conversation like that. (I hope we see more of Aurelia, she seems sweet.)

So yes, an excellent Bookworm volume, and almost calm and peaceful. Ominous. Waiting for the other shoe to drop. Also, when Rozemyne finally does grow up (signs point to Book 28), she will be absolutely terrifying.

By: Sean Gaffney

#Anime #News #Manga Bookshelf

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ming-sik · 5 months

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shouldn't have made that damned linguistics post. i can grit my teeth and ignore inconsistencies about yurgenschmidt having potatoes without specifying that they're an imported crop but i'm just too autistic about languages to let aob pretend they exist in a vacuum. it literally does not matter how strict the royal academy/sovereign is about preserving its dialect, in a world without widespread recorded audio it's nigh impossible to preserve anything but grammar and vocabulary that people code switch to formal settings if they're taught it in the royal academy(which in a society where most people don't keep written notes will also naturally fade as they go back to spending basically all their time in their own duchy). they will have slightly different accents and vocabulary, especially for local things. euphemisms can't be so easily standardized either! the most popular ones can keep the gist, but in a society where most people can't even name all the gods and literally every euphemism is based on an encyclopedic knowledge of mythology(which i also have a problem with), you can't convince me that people don't just get wires crossed or make up new euphemisms or never discover that they're using a phrase wrong because they're not saying anything offensive and that as a result they mean different things across duchy/generation. lanzenave has the same problem twice over because they're dealing with entirely different indigenous languages. since the majority of their population is still indigenous, their languages are gonna affect the dialect of the prestige language. i don't need every yurgenschmidt duchy to have their own language(i mean i would like that. i want ehrenfest and ahrensbach to have their dialects affected by being border duchies who are in more frequent contact with other languages) or that the yurgenschmidt language needs to have a grammar page along with the world map, but i think aob leaves a lot of worldbuilding on the table when it comes to the ideal of a society in a perfect vacuum where the entire country's nobility perfectly speaks the sovereign dialect and understands noble euphemisms and lanzenave's nobility perfectly preserves the sovereign dialect, and the reality where linguistic drift and dialect variance is inevitable not only on a country level but on a province level. there's one joke about dunkelfelger having a dialect where they have 'ditter' as an ending particle, but that's not good enough. which duchy is the yurgenschmidt equivalent of kansai?

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ming-sik · 4 months

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rewrite language stuff :)

so basically the primary language family in YS is called mestioran. old high mestioran was the language spoken during the religious era(ie early yurgenschmidt, when the first version of the grutrissheit was produced) and remains the language that religious texts are written in, and was a classical language used until secularization had written texts transition to high mestioran, which is the modern noble dialect. sovereign high mestioran is the prestige dialect and is what books are written in, although the actual spoken dialects are mostly split into eastern(which encompasses ehrenfest, ahrensbach, and surrounding smaller duchies), northern(klassenberg and surrounding duchies), southwestern(hauchletze, dunkelfelger and surrounding duchies), and western(gilessenmeyer, drewanchel, and surrounding duchies). the main source of divergence in the eastern dialects is their influence from lanzenave and luumila, the countries that border ahrensbach and ehrenfest respectively, with the noble dialects of ehrenfest being especially divergent because they allow foreigners or people with foreign ancestry to be included in lines of succession, meaning that they have much heavier linguistic influence than even their southern neighbor.

in general lower city dialects vary much more because only the sovereign has laws about marrying foreigners, and many border duchies have substantial communities or even provinces where the majority of people don't natively speak mestioran, if at all.

due to the separation of the temple from the rest of society, most temples have their own dialect. ehrenfest's has three registers. firstly, the formal register, a dialect that mostly preserves old high mestioran in vocabulary and phonology, used for sermons, prayers, and blessings; secondly, actual old high mestioran, which is used exclusively by scribes, although its phonology has drifted over the years; and finally the "temple dialect", a variant of lower city ehrenfest mestioran with influence from the formal register. this mainly comes from the way ehrenfest handles devouring commoners, by forcibly taking them into the temple at their baptism. when gray priests are sold outside the temple, they're expected to learn high mestioran. blue priests generally speak high mestioran, although they generally understand the temple dialect. (also there's a secret proto-version of old high mestioran spoken by the gods, but nobody speaks it...... at first)

most dialects of high mestioran are mutually intelligible with their local lower city dialects, although this is less true the more separated the two groups are, and they're often not if sufficiently geographically or culturally removed. for example, a haldenzel commoner wouldn't be able to understand either a drewanchel or sovereign noble. most capital lower city dialects are intelligible across duchies due to trade, but due to the extreme variety of language in rural areas, even rural commoners from ehrenfest and klassenberg have trouble understanding each other.

there are three main writing systems in YS.

classical mestioran is a semi-logographic writing system which generally has a logographic element along with phonetic elements, which represent the entire word's pronunciation through an extensive syllabary. in calligraphy, the logographic elements are often detailed enough to be pictographic, meaning that their general meaning can be deciphered without understanding the language(if you understand the pictures), but longform books are generally written either in the simplified logographic style or sometimes with purely phonetic elements, with calligraphy serving as titles, emphasis, or marginalia. it was originally standardized, but the isolation of the temples means that at this point most temples have character variations, especially in calligraphy, and the phonetic elements are sometimes written as they're currently pronounced so they reflect linguistic drift.

the official noble writing system, high mestioran, or just "mestioran", is simplified to be abstracted logographic with its phonetic elements pared down to an abjad and also not all of the consonants are in there and also despite a standardized version being taught at the RA, new characters are invented for new concepts and also people write regional variant characters anyway. high mestioran is much quicker/easier to write than classical mestioran and the standardized sovereign dialect means that once someone's attended the RA, they can understand most written things aside from a handful of vocabulary, regardless of what dialect the original author speaks.

mercantile is an abjad. it originated as a pidgin for merchants who spoke different languages to understand each others' inventories and letters of recommendation. it originates from lanzenave which got it from the major trade network they're connected to, and is designed to have angular, very simple letters that can be neatly written on wooden boards. however, what letters it includes exactly or what sounds they represent varies, so there are a decent chunk of words that new merchants just have to memorize the spelling of. sometimes different letters distinguish words that are homophones in the speaker's dialect or reflect the place the product is originally from, so changing the spelling of a word to more accurately reflect how you would pronounce it is heavily discouraged to avoid confusion. it's not really intended for writing longform text, although there's nothing stopping you from doing it anyway. myne's "teaching alphabet" is a version of mercantile that's modified to include versions of katakana vowels to make it easier to learn, although it's specific to the lower city ehrenfest dialect and the way it flattens vowels and vowel clusters not present in japanese means that it keeps some words that aren't homophones as homographs and leads to weird pronunciation if the people being taught with it aren't also hearing the words spoken regularly.

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tada-no-honzuki · 1 year

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Ascendance of a Bookworm (29) Part 5 Volume 8

Prologue

From yesterday into today, from today into tomorrow, time passed without delay. Each day seemed to be the same. However, Justus knew from experience that seemingly mundane days could change on a whim’s notice. Like that day he gave his name to Ferdinand to gain his trust, or that day that Ferdinand was run out of noble society following the previous archduke’s death and entered the temple, or the day that Ferdinand received a royal order to marry into Ahrensbach…. And then, there was today….

“Lady Letizia!? Have you finished replenishing the foundation already!?”

“Please open the door. I’m in a hurry.”

The voice of Lady Letizia echoed behind the door, even though she had only just entered the archduke’s office to replenish the duchy’s foundation.

Justus’ gaze met Eckhart’s. Ferdinand had been asked to supply mana to the foundation even though he and Detlinde had yet to marry. Their Lord had accepted this request and was simultaneously using it as an opportunity to educate Lady Letizia and hear her woes. They were both supposed to be in the mana replenishment hall right now.

When a duchy’s foundation was being replenished, only archnoble retainers related to the archducal family were allowed inside the archduke’s office. Therefore, Justus and Eckhart were not allowed in. The other retainers kept telling them to rest in their rooms while the foundation was being replenished, but they would always wait outside the office’s door. Because Ferdinand had ordered them to keep Detlinde away and inform him immediately should she show up.

“…did something happen?” Justus muttered.

“But that woman isn’t here,” Eckhart replied skeptically.

It had never occurred to Justus that something might happen without Detlinde present. However, the worst had happened. As soon as Letizia left the archduke’s office, she offered him the cage in her hands. It was the cage Ferdinand usually wore on his belt and contained his highbeast and three white, cocoon-like name-swearing stones.

“Ferdinand said… Go…”

An audible gasp escaped Justus’ mouth. A high-pitched ringing sounded in his ears. He could not believe what Letizia was holding in her hands. It was at that moment that Justus’ life in Ahrensbach turned upside down.

The days in which he had frowned upon Detlinde’s words and actions and been stumped by the arrogance of Lanzenave’s representatives. The days in which he had felt increasingly frustrated watching his Lord’s health deteriorate, because meals had run out due to Rozemyne’s disappearance. As everything was coming apart, he realized how relatively peaceful life in Ahrensbach had been until then.

…Lord Ferdinand!

Justus snatched the cage from Letizia’s hands. There was no doubt about it, these were their name-swearing stones. He was sure Ferdinand would never entrust them to anyone else unless he had no other choice.

…what happened? Who did this….?

As his mind went blank, the order Ferdinand had previously given them resounded in his head. It was almost as if Ferdinand had known this day would come.

“When I believe my life is in danger, I shall return your names. For I do not want you to die with me, and I need you to deliver my findings to Ehrenfest. Do not fail me.”

Justus glanced at the cage in his left hand, then touched his chest with his right hand to confirm all the necessary documents were still safely in his inner pocket. The permission slip to use the teleportation circle, the information to be delivered to Aub Ehrenfest, and the name-swearing stones that proved Ferdinand’s life was in danger. Everything was right there.

…do we really have to go?

Justus’ whole body started trembling. His legs refused to move and leave his Lord behind as he was ordered. What exactly had happened to Ferdinand was a mystery to him, but one thing he knew for certain, although Ferdinand was in serious straits, he was still alive. Yet no matter how badly Justus wanted to save him, his Lord was beyond his reach.

“What did you do to Lord Ferdinand!?” Eckhart roared.

“Hii…”

His partner’s shout brought Justus back to his senses. Eckhart, who was trying to restrain Letizia, and the guard knights, who were trying to protect their charge, were staring daggers at each other.

…that idiot!

Realizing Eckhart had completely lost his cool, Justus quickly regained his composure. He could not allow Eckhart to draw his weapon here. Justus’ hand swiftly reached out, grabbing Eckhart by the collar, and he yelled, “Eckhart, the interrogation can wait! We should prioritize Lord Ferdinand’s orders! Remember what he said!?”

Eckhart turned back in surprise. However, anger was still burning in his eyes, and he continued glaring at Letizia through gritted teeth. It was clear to Justus he did not have the time to wait for Eckhart to cool his head. If they did not leave soon, Eckhart would no doubt be captured and questioned for pointing his sword at Letizia.

…this is no laughing matter.

Justus glared at Letizia and the archduke’s office, then turned around. Ignoring the inquiries coming from Sergius and Strahl, he ran off toward the teleportation room. They could not afford to be arrested right now.

“This way.”

They would stand out running through the castle. To lose any pursuers, Justus quickly turned into one of the small hallways used by the servants. Eckhart silently followed him.

Walking at a brisk pace, Justus greeted the passing servants with a smile and a light wave as if nothing was amiss. Meanwhile, he took his name-swearing stone from the cage.

“Justus!?” Eckhart yelled in shock.

“If we do not undo the binding, we shall climb the towering staircase before we can complete Lord Ferdinand’s orders.”

“Don’t jinx us!”

Ignoring Eckhart’s angry glare and cry of outburst, Justus firmly gripped his name-swearing stone and started dissolving the mana binding him. As the white cocoon fell apart, all that remained was a bare name-swearing stone, stripped from its white box. The mana of his Lord that had surrounded him for so long had vanished. He usually took no note of it, but now that it was gone, he felt a strong sense of loss.

“…no matter what happens, I shall carry out Lord Ferdinand’s final orders,” Justus said calmly. “If you want to die with him, that’s fine with me. I can return your feystone to Lord Karstedt and Lady Elvira when I report to Lord Sylvester. Now, what is it going to be?”

The moment Justus suggested he would reunite Eckhart with his parents, even if he failed to complete their Lord’s final orders, Eckhart send him an angry glare and grumbled “Give it to me,” with an outstretched hand. “I shall deliver the information and proof Lord Ferdinand gathered to Aub Ehrenfest, then follow him once I have confirmed his death.”

“That isn’t so bad, is it?”

Thinking the reaction was very in character for Eckhart, Justus handed him the cage with name-swearing stones. You could only distinguish your own stone, because it would react to your mana. Telling other people’s stones apart was impossible.

“This one.”

Eckhart grabbed the stone with trembling hands and returned the cage to Justus, who quietly accepted it. Keeping their brisk pace, Justus watched as Eckhart started to undo the binding with tears in his eyes. He could tell at a glance that the hand holding the name-swearing stone was shaking.

Eckhart had lost his wife Heidemarie and their unborn child to poison mixed into her food. Back then he had wanted to follow her in death, but as a name-sworn retainer, his life belonged to their Lord. Ferdinand had not allowed Eckhart to take his own life and follow his wife in death. He had ordered him to, “Live your life for both of you.”

It had been Heidemarie who had originally suggested, “Let’s serve Lord Ferdinand as man and wife.” Ever since he lost her, Eckhart had faithfully served Ferdinand on her behalf as well. By now, serving Ferdinand had become the reason for his existence.

…this must be even harder on Eckhart than it is on me.

They had to undo their ultimate show of loyalty with their own hands. Few would be able to understand the frustration and disgrace they felt right now. They had failed to protect their Lord, proving their loyalty and devotion had not been enough.

…it’s only Lasfam now.

Justus looked at the final name-swearing stone that remained in the cage. It belonged to Lasfam. Ferdinand had judged that as a laynoble attendant, he was unable to protect himself. He had therefore been told to wait in Ehrenfest until after the starbind ceremony when Ferdinand’s position as the Archduchess’ husband had been established before moving to Ahrensbach. Lasfam must have been the one who regretted the postponement of the starbind ceremony more than anyone else.

…I guess we failed to keep our promise to Lasfam then.

They had promised Lasfam to play their cards wisely to ensure his smooth acceptance by the Ahrensbach retainers, and to protect Lord Ferdinand from Lady Georgine’s schemes and the various rumors going around. Yet Justus and Eckhart had ultimately failed to protect their Lord.

…I wonder if we’ll be able to return Lasfam’s name-swearing stone in time.

Lasfam’s name-swearing stone would respond when Ferdinand’s life ran out. It was hard to say if Ferdinand would last until they could return it. Just thinking about Ferdinand’s inevitable death, Justus felt his stomach turn. However, if he allowed himself to vomit, he was certain all the tears, anger, and despair he was desperately trying to suppress would come out too, and nail him to the ground. Swallowing everything back down, Justus focused on moving his legs, telling himself to prioritize Ferdinand’s final orders.

Justus took a deep breath before leaving the servant’s passages to clear his mind and plastered his usual smile on his face. The teleportation room was right ahead. They could not let the knights in there know something was amiss.

“Eckhart, your emotions are showing on your face. Quell your anger. Don’t forget, we are simply going to see Raimund at Lord Ferdinand’s request.”

There was the possibility the knights had been informed by ordonnanz, therefore some caution was required. However, when she handed him the cage with name-swearing stones, even Letizia had seemed unsure of what exactly happened. They would certainly prioritize questioning Letizia, trying to contact Ferdinand in the mana replenishment hall, and obtaining Detlinde’s permission to arrest Eckhart and him. They would not think to contact the teleportation room, right?

“Oh, off to the Royal Academy again, are we?”

“We are just going to deliver the corrected assignments and some ingredients Professor Hirschur asked for…. Extorting the necessary brewing ingredients for her research from Lord Ferdinand is unfortunately one of her specialties. It’s really quite troubling.”

As expected, no one had contacted the knights stationed at the teleportation room. Although the two knights on duty gave Justus and Eckhart looks of surprise, they immediately started preparations to activate the teleportation circle upon seeing their permission slips.

“Lord Ferdinand isn’t joining you today, is he?” One of the knights asked. “It’s rare to see both of you leave his side at the same time.”

The teleportation circle was generally only used during the Royal Academy term and the Archduke Conference. For that reason, the knights stationed at the teleportation room had been informed that Raimund was holing up in Professor Hirschur’s laboratory, that Ferdinand was keeping an eye on him, and that Detlinde had given them permission to use the teleportation circle for research purposes. That said, Eckhart and Justus had never visited the Royal Academy without Ferdinand. Justus shrugged lightly, hoping to avoid any suspicion.

“He has the former knight’s commander, Strahl, with him, and I very much doubt anything will happen while he’s replenishing the foundation. Lord Ferdinand should be fine without us for a bit. Professor Hirschur always forces whoever comes to see her to assist with her brewing, so it is not a task he can easily entrust to someone who does not know how she rolls.”

The knights, who just contacted the dormitory to inform them of their upcoming arrival, blinked in surprise.

“What? She even asks attendants and knights to assist with her brewing?”

“That’s right,” Justus answered. “She constantly had us help her while Ferdinand attended the Royal Academy. Although I am officially an attendant, I can brew as well as any scholar. To be honest with you, I fear she will be keeping us all night.”

“Haha. Joint research with Ehrenfest certainly is rough.”

With all preparations completed, the knights beckoned Justus and Eckhart to step onto the teleportation circle. As they did, they were engulfed in black and golden flames. Feeling a slight floating sensation in their stomach, they left Ahrensbach’s castle behind them.

They smiled at the knights stationed at the dormitory as they left the teleportation room. Then walked at a leisurely pace until the sound of their footsteps could not be heard anymore. As they turned around the corner, Justus pulled out the magic letter he always carried on his body. It was a permission slip that was preemptively signed by Sylvester, authorizing them to use Ehrenfest’s tea party room as a place of refuge in case of emergency.

“Eckhart, get rid of that vase.”

After Eckhart swiftly moved it away, Justus unfolded the letter on the empty pedestal and transformed his schtappe using stylo to write a request for an emergency meeting with Aub Ehrenfest and signed his name. He then passed it to Eckhart, who signed it as well.

As Justus put it in the accompanying envelope, the letter turned into a white bird and flew off. That’s when Justus and Eckhart started running. There was no one in the empty dormitory to chastise them for it.

As they exited the dormitory from the entrance hall, they ran towards the door to Ehrenfest’s tea party room in the central tower. After a short wait in front of the eighth entrance, the knight who had received their letter hastily opened the door.

“I have contacted Aub Ehrenfest. Please wait inside.”

The knight allowed them inside, then left the room. Since Justus and Eckhart no longer had their authorization brooches, they could not enter Ehrenfest’s dormitory itself. They had no choice but to wait in the tea party room for Sylvester to arrive.

Justus looked around the room and quickly rearranged the furniture for the upcoming meeting. Then, he plopped down in a chair, showing not a shred of the grace expected of a noble. He could not help it, his body just felt too heavy.

“…Is Lasfam still okay?”

Hearing Eckhart’s whisper, Justus glanced at the golden cage. Lasfam’s name-swearing stone was still there. Nothing had changed. It meant Ferdinand was still alive. However, that knowledge was not enough to stop the feeling of hopelessness eating away inside him.

…when everything is said and done, it’s not like we can save Lord Ferdinand.

Exploiting the information they carried, Justus and Eckhart would likely be accepted back into Ehrenfest, and it would give them good cause to attack Ahrensbach. However, that would not save Ferdinand. Neither Aub Ehrenfest nor the Grutrissheit-less Zent could change that. There was no one in this world who could save Ferdinand from Ahrensbach’s mana replenishment hall.

…after everything he has been through, this is what he gets?

Their attitude was inexcusable. Be it the Zent, who issued the royal order, or Ehrenfest, who completely cut them off from any information and stopped sending them food, medicine, and such after Rozemyne disappeared. Justus decided that, depending on Sylvester’s attitude at this meeting, he would take revenge on Ahrensbach’s archducal family without even considering the consequences it would have for Ehrenfest.

He would never forgive Detlinde, for pushing all of her work onto others and doing nothing herself, Lanzenave’s people, for stealing Detlinde away and increasing their workload, and Letizia and her retainers, for wasting Ferdinand’s time and putting him in danger despite him bothering to educate her.

The desire to assassinate Detlinde and Letizia, and completely ruin Ahrensbach’s archducal family surged through Justus’ body. Let the Zent tear his hair out deciding how to deal with a greater duchy that had lost its entire archducal family.

“Justus, what are you thinking about?” Eckhart asked.

“I was wondering where and what kind of magic tools I might set off in Ahrensbach’s castle.”

“…Hm, I’d rather kill all of them with my own hands first. I would not want any to get away in the chaos.”

“We could leave a single way of escape. Then, as they think they are safe, we will sink them into the depths of despair.”

They both chuckled, a devilish glint shining in their eyes. Although their laughter was light, the air in the room felt sharp and heavy. Possibly because they were suppressing their desire to go on a rampage immediately.

Suddenly, the door opened with a click.

“Excuse us.”

A few attendants entered the room and started preparing tea for their meeting with the Aub.

“My apologies for our knight’s incompetence.” One of them said. “Leaving without serving our guests some tea…”

“Don’t worry about it,” Justus responded. “We arrived rather suddenly. It’s not the knight’s fault. …when is Aub Ehrenfest expected to arrive?”

The attendant forced a smile, as she put some snacks on the table.

“He should be here soon. We were instructed to hurry.”

“Sorry for the wait.”

The attendant had not lied, Sylvester had arrived much quicker than expected. Justus briefly glanced at Lasfam’s name-swearing stone. No changes yet.

“I see the tea is done. Then you may leave and start preparations for our next guest.”

Justus and Eckhart were not the only ones, Sylvester himself seemed to be in quite a hurry too. Right after instructing the attendants to leave the room, he placed two sound-blocking magic tools on the table. After checking everyone was holding one, Justus opened his mouth to speak.

“Aub Ehrenfest, Lord Ferdinand was…”

But before he could complete his sentence, Sylvester interrupted him.

“I know. He was poisoned, right? Rozemyne told me.”

Justus and Eckhart were taken aback.

“Wait, Lady Rozemyne has returned?” Justus asked in surprise. “We heard she went missing…”

“Who told you that?” Sylvester replied with a stern look. “I gave strict orders to everyone to keep that information from leaking.”

Eckhart quickly tried to change the topic.

“Let’s focus on Lord Ferdinand’s situation for now.”

If possible, they would rather not reveal their information source, but Sylvester would not have it.

“A royal order was issued to keep it under wraps. So, state your source. I don’t want more of our information to leak.”

“…it was Professor Hirschur.” Justus admitted reluctantly. “She told us in exchange for helping her with her brewing.

Sylvester gave a heavy sigh, and grumbled, “Seems I must be more careful with what information I share with Hirschur.” with a bitter look on his face. Even so, he seemed to be relieved the information did not leak from a more threatening source. Then, his expression suddenly softened.

“That reminds me, these are a gift from Rozemyne. Should bring some color back to your faces.”

As he said that, Sylvester plopped two rejuvenation potions on the table. Eckhart and Justus had been hesitant to use any at all, since their stock had been running low in Ahrensbach. So, they were quick to accept Rozemyne’s consideration and downed the potions without delay. They tasted awful, but the rejuvenating effects were excellent.

“Where did Lady Rozemyne get her information?” Justus inquired. “We headed here immediately after the events took place….”

“She received Ferdinand’s Last Words.”

“What!?”

In this context, Last Words referred to the event in which a person in mortal danger started emitting mana to inform someone else of their situation. The person on the receiving end would be able to watch the situation like it were a video and was always a person the sender cared for very strongly. The image was generally transmitted subconsciously, and it often happened to people engaged in battle. Since it was hardly ever possible to save the person in question, people referred to it as their Last Words. In short, Rozemyne had witnessed events that Eckhart and Justus had not seen.

“What is Georgine up to?” Sylvester inquired. “According to Rozemyne, she is the mastermind behind Ferdinand’s downfall.”

Since Georgine had left her villa days ago and had not had any interactions with Letizia at all, Justus had not yet considered she might be pulling the strings.

“She left her villa roughly ten days ago to perform Spring Prayer,” Justus replied through gritted teeth.

“Then, I guess that means she could be arriving in Ehrenfest any day now?”

Sylvester let out a heavy sigh.

“Is Lady Georgine truly pulling the strings?” Justus asked.

“Yeah, Rozemyne said Georgine planned it all, then Detlinde flung the powder at him.”

…Lady Detlinde? But only Lady Letizia was there?

Detlinde wasn’t supposed to be anywhere near the mana replenishment hall. Ferdinand had made sure of that. There was a large discrepancy between the information Rozemyne had and what they knew for themselves to be true. But before Justus could ask for clarification, Sylvester suddenly grinned widely.

“Rozemyne is going to save Ferdinand tonight.”

“What?”

Unable to process the full meaning of Sylvester’s words, Justus’ eyes merely opened wide in surprise. As far as he knew, there was no one in this whole world who had the power to save Ferdinand from the mana replenishment hall of another duchy. There was supposed to be no chance of success.

“You say it is possible? That little princess can…”

“Hm? Oh, she isn’t that little anymore. Just wait till you see her, you’ll be surprised.”

Justus hadn’t seen Rozemyne in over a year. So, he agreed she probably would have grown some, but that was not what he had meant.

“Did Lady Rozemyne say it is possible to save him?”

“She persuaded Bonifatius to let her try, claiming she could save him and decided to leave at midnight. So, she must have seen something that makes her feel there is some leeway. It seems to me there is a good chance of success.”

Even if they departed at midnight, there was still a good chance of success. That meant their Lord would not die just yet. As the realization struck him, Justus felt the coil of tension snap and his body started to relax. The pitch-black darkness of despair that had engulfed him while they were waiting for Sylvester to arrive cleared up in an instant. The relief of learning there was still some hope left nearly brought him to tears.

“I have a message from Ferdinand for Lady Rozemyne. That if she stays in Ehrenfest and waits quietly, she will be able to save Yurgenschmidt and Ehrenfest. Do you think she will listen to him?”

“You think a mere message could stop her?” Sylvester replied with a smirk. “When all is over, Ferdinand will be at his wit’s end trying to clean up her mess, but that is what he gets for getting himself into trouble.”

Wry smiles appeared on Justus’ and Eckhart’s faces as they remembered how Ferdinand would always tap his finger against his temple as he dealt with Rozemyne’s unexpected actions. It was easy to imagine Ferdinand pinching her cheeks, and grumbling, “Why didn’t you listen to me?”, after she successfully saved him.

…Lady Rozemyne is truly extraordinary.

The way in which Lady Rozemyne exceeded Ferdinand’s expectations and plans time and again was exhilarating, to say the least. Now, was there anything else they could do to increase Ferdinand’s survival rate? All of a sudden, Justus had the leeway to consider the option. There was very little he could do if he limited himself to orthodox methods. No, he needed to be prepared to play his full hand, irrespective of the consequences. No matter how questionable, if he prioritized his Lord’s life, there should be something he could do.

…that reminds me, we have that.

Ferdinand would be furious and Rozemyne would absolutely hate the idea. However, he would do anything to save his Lord’s life. A way to help Rozemyne, prolong Ferdinand’s life and in passing, pay one out to his Lord. Realizing he had found a way to do it all at once, a smile played on Justus’ lips.

Eckhart however, still had a stern expression on his face.

“You say that Rozemyne is going to save him, but wouldn’t that be an act equivalent to invading another duchy. Did you give her permission for this, Aub Ehrenfest?”

“Yes, I gave her my permission. I told Rozemyne she and her retainers can do as they want. I’m sorry, but I cannot spare more manpower while Georgine could arrive at Ehrenfest’s doorstep at any moment.”

Upon hearing the words, “I gave her my permission.” directly from Sylvester’s mouth, Eckhart finally seemed to relax too. He heaved a sigh, then wiped away some tears. Taking a deep breath Eckhart stood up and kneeled before Sylvester, took his hands in his, and pressed his forehead against them.

“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for committing to invade a greater duchy. I am beyond happy that you are willing to try to rescue Lord Ferdinand. I cannot express in words how grateful I am he has an older brother like you….”

Except for ceremonial purposes, it was extremely rare for Eckhart to kneel before anyone but Ferdinand. Aware of this, Sylvester should understand how deep Eckhart’s gratitude truly ran. His dark green eyes narrowed softly.

“I will accept your gratitude, but Ferdinand isn’t safe yet. The battle has yet to begin.”

Eckhart lifted his head with a snap. Sylvester pulled his hands free from Eckhart’s and gently gestured for him to sit back in his seat.

“I shall be speaking with the royal family after this. If they grant us permission, that would be greatly appreciated, but even without it, Rozemyne will go ahead.”

“And that’s fine with you?”

Eckhart’s facial expression tightened again upon hearing they still needed to get permission from the royal family.

“You came here, leaving Ferdinand’s side while his life is in danger. I bet you have something for me, don’t you? Show me already.”

If he wanted to have any success at convincing the royal family to give him permission to attack Ahrensbach and subjugate Lanzenave’s envoy, Sylvester needed proof to support his claims. He spoke with complete confidence that Ferdinand had gathered just that.

Prompted by Eckhart’s gaze, Justus pulled several recording tools from his bag and several sheets of paper from his inner pocket, arranging everything on the table.

“Lord Ferdinand intended to use these as evidence to show that Detlinde is not suited to become Aub Ahrensbach, but if you emphasize the close relationship between Ahrensbach’s archducal family and Lanzenave, and the harm they brought to Lord Ferdinand who headed there at the Zent’s orders, it should be possible to keep the royal family from interfering.

As Justus explained the contents of the documents and recording tools, an ordonnanz arrived. It contained a message from the first prince.

“Rozemyne is waiting for you at Ferdinand’s esta…” Sylvester began but quickly corrected himself. “Ah, no, it’s Rozemyne’s library now. She decided to prioritize preparations instead of meeting you here.”

He then placed two authorization brooches on the table. The proof they would be treated as nobles from Ehrenfest from here on. It hit Justus this meant Sylvester had prepared them before even hearing their circumstances.

“Having people that are familiar with the castle’s layout and can guide her to the mana replenishment hall, will dramatically increase the success rate.” Sylvester continued. “Be sure to save your Lord, my little brother. I’m counting on you.”

“Don’t worry, we will save him without fail.”

#Ascendance of a Bookworm #P5V8 #Translation

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tada-no-honzuki · 1 year

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Ascendance of a Bookworm (29) Part 5 Volume 8 Extra Chapter 1

Since the title of this chapter contains spoilers, it has been hidden beneath a "read more"!

[The Battle for Ehrenfest] Giebe Kirnberger - Opening the Country Gate

With Spring Prayer just around the corner, an urgent letter from the castle arrived at Kirnberger’s Summer Estate. The white bird flew straight into my office and turned into a letter on my desk. One of the scholars picked it up, checked it, and then handed it to me.

"Giebe Kirnberger,” he said. “It is from Lady Florencia, Aub Ehrenfest’s first wife.”

I frowned as I accepted the letter and gave it a read. Since there was a high possibility that Lady Georgine of Ahrensbach would be invading Ehrenfest to acquire its foundation, we were told to increase our patrols and to immediately contact the castle if we came across anyone suspicious.

...they have been telling us to be prepared since the beginning of spring. Has Lady Georgine finally made a move?

I remembered the girl who, after enduring a strict education to become the next archduchess, had lashed out in anger when she was removed from that position on the day of her younger brother’s baptism. Was she still holding onto that grudge? Or was there some other reason?

During last winter's purge, several nobles were executed, because they had sworn their name to her. I had heard that she had been requesting names to antagonize Veronica, but I very much doubted she had many pawns left within Ehrenfest at this point.

"It certainly is a tense situation,” I said. “But I doubt it will have much to do with Kirnberger.”

If Lady Georgine were to invade, she would likely head toward the capital from Ahrensbach or old Werkestock, which were respectively located to the south or southwest of Ehrenfest. If her aim was the duchy’s foundation, it was quite unlikely she would come to Kirnberger, which was in the east.

"It is unlikely that she will come this way, but we should be prepared nonetheless,” One of my scholars said. “Would you like to increase the frequency of the patrols, as well as the training sessions?"

“Maybe we should also keep Kirnberger knights at the ready to assist the border provinces, in case a request arrives?” I mused.

"Please consider it carefully. There is no guarantee that she will not come our way.”

I gave a slight nod to my scholars and stroked my chin as I considered our options.

"If we are going to lend our knights to others, shouldn’t we prioritize the central district?” I mulled. “Protecting the foundation is what’s most important.”

"Why don't you try asking Lord Alexis? You never know when we may need their assistance."

My scholars suggested I get into Lord Wilfried and Aub Ehrenfest’s good graces through Alexis. I had to agree, if I were going to send reinforcements anyway, it might as well benefit my son. So, I sent an ordonnanz to Alexis to check whether they might need reinforcements from Kirnberger.

“This is Alexis. Has Lady Georgine already invaded the duchy? Lord Wilfried is still in a meeting with the archducal family and the higher-ups of the knight’s order, and no information of that kind has reached my ears yet. As soon as my Lord returns, I shall consult him on the matter.”

I folded my arms as I watched the ordonnanz repeat its message two more times. I had not expected Alexis to be unaware of the present situation. He was a guard knight of the archducal family after all.

“What news must have reached the Aub’s ears that Lady Florencia felt it necessary to send a letter to each Giebe in the middle of a meeting?” I muttered to myself. “Perhaps Alexis was ordered to keep quiet? Or maybe he is kept in the dark on purpose?”

“Maybe Aub Ehrenfest received some urgent news and had to step out of the room. His family may be waiting in the meeting room, unable to proceed.”

My scholars suggested they were possibly trying to do what they could until Aub Ehrenfest returned. A typical way of thinking for a scholar. However, I felt that, more than anything, it conveyed that Lady Georgine's invasion was imminent.

“I suppose we should at least assess the placement of our knights, just in case they do ask for reinforcements?” I concluded.

I immediately summoned the higher-ups of Kirnberger’s knight’s order and showed them Lady Florencia’s letter. Then, as we were discussing our next step, another white bird arrived and turned into a letter after landing on my desk.

“What is it?” I asked. “A request for assistance from Alexis?”

"No, it's another letter from the castle.” The scholar replied. “It’s from Aub Ehrenfest himself."

"We only just received a letter from Lady Florencia,” I exclaimed. “What is it this time?"

It hadn't been that long since Lady Florencia contacted us. If he were just trying to counter Lady Georgine's invasion, Aub Ehrenfest shouldn't have any particular requests to make to Kirnberger.

"...it seems that Aub Ehrenfest will be visiting Kirnberger tonight. To open the border gate.”

“He is going to open the border gate?” I asked confused. “For what purpose?”

I snatched the letter from the scholar’s hand and quickly skimmed it. The scholar was right. To summarize, the letter said, “I shall be arriving in Kirnberger around midnight to open the border gate. We will be using the teleportation circle located at your summer estate. There is no need for Kirnberger to take any action. I am just contacting you since I shall be entering your mansion's premises with my knights.” I tapped the letter with my finger, unable to fully grasp the meaning of the message.

"The teleportation circle of Kirnberger’s summer estate?” I frowned. “Does such a thing exist? Has it ever been used before? Where on earth is it? Exactly where will Aub Ehrenfest appear?"

“Although he says we don’t have to take any action, we can’t just sit back.” My scholar said. “Shouldn’t we review the night watch for tonight, find that teleportation circle, and clean the area around it?”

As it had not been used in ages, we didn't even know the location of the teleportation circle. It was quite possible that it was currently blocked by equipment, or the surrounding area was inaccessible. The blood quickly drained from our faces. Aub Ehrenfest had made it sound easy, but the estate and its premises were quite spacious. It would be difficult to find something that we had never seen before.

"Hurry up and find that teleportation circle!” I ordered. “Get it ready by midnight!"

"The magic circle is probably carved into the floor or wall.” A scholar suggested. “Even if it’s not visible to the naked eye, it might react if you pour some mana into it."

“Have the attendants check inside the estate and tell the knights to look outside. Make sure they do not forget to check the training grounds. I want all scholars to go through the documents in the archive and see if there are any mentions of the teleportation circle!”

Within a moment the whole estate was in an uproar.

As a result of everyone’s fervent search, we found the teleportation circle was carved into the stone pavement in front of the estate. The place was currently being used as a training ground for the knights. Unlike the teleportation circle connected to the Royal Academy, which could only transport up to three people at a time, the estate’s teleportation circle was much larger and seemed to be designed to transport many people at once. The shelves and training dummies that had been left on top of the teleportation circle were quickly removed. After which the knights used waschen to remove the dirt. We had successfully averted a crisis.

“Is he really coming?”

"He even went out of his way to inform us,” I replied. “I'm sure he'll come."

Aub Ehrenfest had said he would arrive around midnight. So, I took a quick nap, then sat up and waited. Although it was already mid-spring, the nights were still cold. So, I was watching the teleportation circle from my office accompanied by several knights.

Suddenly, the teleportation circle lit up. We immediately rushed out onto the balcony and jumped onto our highbeast. Black and golden flames swirled around. By the time we could see shapes appearing, we had arrived at the site of the teleportation circle.

“Welcome, Aub Ehrenfest.” I said.

Although my face radiated calm, my heart was in shock. It wasn't just the Aub and his knights who had arrived.

“… is that Lady Rozemyne?” I whispered under my breath.

“Judging by the guard knights around her, I suppose it is…” The knight standing next to me replied quietly. He seemed just as confused as me.

She had grown so much that it was hard to believe it was really her. I knew Lady Rozemyne had been indisposed for a long period and had consequently not attended the feast celebrating spring, but I had seen her at the start of winter. No matter how you looked at it, this was an unnatural amount of growth.

I couldn't help but wonder why she had grown so much, but the Aub and his knights were engaged in a serious conversation about the practical uses of the teleportation circle. The atmosphere did not allow me to inquire after Lady Rozemyne’s abnormal growth.

...that said, didn't those two go to Ahrensbach with Lord Ferdinand?

Lord Justus and Lord Eckhart were included in Lady Rozemyne’s entourage. Feeling at a loss as to what was going on, I folded my arms.

“Sylvester, would you please leave the discussion for later and open the border gate for me.”

"That's right. The assessment can wait. Let's go."

It seems that Lady Rozemyne had requested the Aub to open the border gate. Although she had grown into a beautiful young woman, she unfortunately still used that strange highbeast.

...it just doesn't suit her.

I felt a more elegant highbeast to suit her beauty would be better, but it seemed that Lady Rozemyne had no intention of changing her fat grun-like highbeast. Since I had seen her traveling with all her Gutenbergs, I knew it was a useful design that could carry a lot of luggage, but I still wished she would pay a little more attention to its appearance.

We also got on our highbeasts and accompanied our guests to the border gate. Since the white gate stood out against the dark, it would be hard to miss. However, we couldn’t just leave the Aub and his entourage to their own devices as we still had no idea what they were planning to do.

"It's Aub Ehrenfest. He is really here."

The knights on night watch looked down with interest from up on the roof of the border gate. Like them, I couldn't help but wonder what the hell was going to happen. As we quietly watched on, the Aub took out his schtappe and tapped the gate, chanting "offnetor."

The doors of the pure white border gate slowly started to open. At the same time, the pale rainbow-colored country gate came into view. It shone like a mother-of-pearl inlay. It wasn’t just a trick of the moonlight; it was actually glowing softly.

Even though I had lived in Kirnberger all my life, it was a sight I rarely got to see. As I admired the beautiful view before my eyes, Lady Rozemyne stepped out of her high beast and approached the country gate. She pulled out her schtappe and chanted “Grutrissheit." As she did, something that looked like a faintly glowing stone slab appeared in her hands.

...hold on, Grutrissheit!?

I gasped. Shouldn’t only the Zent be able to wield it? However, the country gate immediately started glowing strongly in response and its triangular roof started sliding open. It was clear as day that Lady Rozemyne wasn’t merely imitating Grutrissheit’s shape with her schtappe. Only those in possession of Grutrissheit could open a country gate. There was no doubt in my mind that she had obtained the genuine copy.

"Look how bright the country gate is shining! Never did I ever… "

“Wait, did she say Grutrissheit!?”

“I can’t believe it, Lady Rozemyne has…”

All eyes were glued to the country gate that was coming to life for the first time in about 200 years. Although it was a moving sight, I could not ignore the fear gripping at my heart. I approached Aub Ehrenfest, who was admiring the country gate just like us.

“Won’t this be considered treason?” I asked.

The failed attempt of Eisenreich’s archducal family to usurp the throne had meant the end of Eisenreich and was the cause of Kirnberger’s decline. The sight of Lady Rozemyne wielding Grutrissheit, while the current Zent could not, sent shivers down my spine.

"Don't worry. Adoption talks with the King are progressing in secret. Besides, there is this."

The Aub assured me the royal family was aware that Lady Rozemyne had obtained Grutrissheit and showed me the first prince had gifted her a courtship necklace. I was relieved to hear Ehrenfest would not be charged with treason, but my eyes widened when I realized this meant that Lady Rozemyne would soon be leaving the duchy. Not only would she be adopted by the King to bestow Grutrissheit onto the royal family, but she was also being courted by the first prince. It was clear she would not be returning to Ehrenfest in the future.

An incredible change was about to occur in Ehrenfest. At a loss for words, I watched Lady Rozemyne instruct her retainers to get into her highbeast, paying no mind to the blow she just dealt to all of us.

“Then, we shall be off,” she spoke. “Don’t worry, I promise I will bring Lord Ferdinand back.”

"Wait, Rozemyne,” the Aub interjected. “Take this... Prince Sigiswald asked me to give you this. He said, it will prove that you have received permission from the royal family, so be sure to wear it at all times."

Aub Ehrenfest offered Lady Rozemyne the courtship necklace. It had the emblem of the royal family engraved in gold into a feystone of six elements. She accepted it without any objection.

Lady Rozemyne stepped into her highbeast and flew up to the roof of the country gate, then landed on the plateau that had become visible due to the roof opening. The Aub and his guard knights chased after her on their highbeasts and so did I, but unlike her, we were all repelled by a barrier and could not approach the country gate.

After waving goodbye, the Grutrissheit in Lady Rozemyne’s hand lit up.

"Koschlussel Dunkelferger."

A magic circle that emitted light from all elements floated up into the air and started spinning. As if prompted by that light, the teleportation circle below activated too.

“Take care of Ferdinand, Rozemyne!”

As Lady Rozemyne disappeared, the roof of the country gate slowly started to close again, as if it knew its job was done. I had just witnessed an event I had only ever read about in history books. While everyone else was excited that the country gate had been opened and that Lady Rozemyne was going to rescue Lord Ferdinand, I tasted a bitter feeling in my mouth.

If Lady Rozemyne was adopted by the King, she would be able to bestow Grutrissheit onto Yurgenschmidt without Ehrenfest being charged with treason. It must be a joyous occasion for both Yurgenschmidt and Lady Rozemyne, who would be joining the royal family.

...I wanted Lady Rozemyne to become the next Aub Ehrenfest, but I suppose that won’t be happening anymore.

As a Giebe of Ehrenfest, I felt it was a shame, but Lady Rozemyne’s departure itself wasn’t a major issue. The much more pressing issue was what direction Ehrenfest, and the archducal family would take after Lady Rozemyne left. Since talks of her becoming the adopted daughter of the King were progressing, and she had received a courtship necklace from the first prince, it was clear the engagement between Lord Wilfried and Lady Rozemyne would be canceled soon. It was safe to assume that this had already been discussed behind the scenes.

...what will happen to Lord Wilfried afterward? He surely hasn’t forgotten his stained reputation, has he? How is he going to act going forward?

I stared at the Aub's back as he closed the border gate. He had been adamant about making Lord Wilfried the next Archduke. Even though Lord Wilfried had committed a crime that could have seen him disinherited, Aub Ehrenfest had gone as far as to reinstate him to the position of next archduke through an engagement to Lady Rozemyne.

I knew from the information Alexis had given me that Lord Wilfried’s archduke training had been put on halt due to his poor attitude. If his engagement to Lady Rozemyne was canceled, and Lord Bonifatius had given up on him, he would most definitely be out of the running for the position of next archduke.

...will Lord Wilfried remain a member of the archducal family? Will he receive any compensation from the royal family for the cancellation of his engagement? And what will happen to Alexis, who is serving him?

Yurgenschmidt's future was important, but my son's future was just as important to me. Even though opening the country gate with Grutrissheit to travel to another duchy was a historical milestone, Lord Wilfried, the supposed fiancée, and Alexis, his close retainer, were not here to share in the occasion. I could not help but worry about their futures.

However, neither could I bring myself to put a damper on everyone's joy and excitement. Unable to question the Aub, I quietly stared at the border gate as its doors slowly closed again.

#Ascendance of a Bookworm #P5V8 #Translation

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ahb-writes · 9 months

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Book Review: 'Ascendance of a Bookworm' #17 (4.5)

Ascendance of a Bookworm, Vol. 17 (Part 4, Volume 5) by Miya Kazuki

adventure

fantasy

magic

library science

librarian

royal academy

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

An intriguing pattern has emerged in terms of Lady Rozemyne's tendency to demand change, as well as of the authority of those who recognize the significance of the change she demands. Notably, the individuals who attune themselves to Rozemyne's wild ideas, and rightfully discern her curiosity as worth revering, are usually two or three degrees removed from positions of high authority. Meanwhile, most people who scoff, disregard, or glance askew whenever the young woman's ideas come to the fore are usually those with the power to make change happen.

ASCENDANCE OF A BOOKWORM v17 completes the remainder of seasons in-between Rozemyne's first and second years at the Royal Academy. She visits the northern region of Groschel, to further establish the paper-making industry, and she tends to myriad events at the castle, including the welcoming of two ladies of Ahrensbach, whom have now married into the family. But Rozemyne's standards for industry growth are high, and her tendency to forget her directives and chat up suspected enemies on tangential topics gives everyone an ulcer. In short, the usual.

The current volume is another collection of awkward and interwoven castle affairs. Naturally, many such events threaten to spiral out of control but never do, which speaks well of the author's sprawling network of subplots, but doesn't do much for readers interested in some decent drama.

For example, when Rozemyne goes to Groschel, she leans on her attendant, Brunhilde, who is native to the area. But their visit is replete with problems: the lower city is deeply impoverished, the nobility is stiff and uncompromising, and the local water supply is polluted. Will the paper-making industry forsake setting down roots in an area with so little social progress? Brunhilde doesn't see much of a problem with simply ordering the commoners to do the tasks and then blaming them when things go wrong. But Rozemyne, careful not to offend but conscientious of the need to be truthful, sets the young woman straight: The people are responsible for the work, true, but the nobility is responsible for the people and their environment; it's all connected.

ASCENDANCE OF A BOOKWORM v17 reinforces the novel series' most essential emerging theme: egalitarianism. Quintessentially Japanese though not without other cultural precedence, the equal delegation of opportunity, the equal expectation of good work, and the shared consequences of failure are fundamental convictions of this novel series.

Counter-navigating an ambush during a wedding ceremony? Appeasing the anxiety of a newlywed woman who once felt trapped in her own home? Staying mindful of the watchful gazes of the surrounding duchies once the new school year begins? In each of these scenarios, Rozemyne must rely on her own wits, as well as the untested virtue of individuals who do not always have the station or authority to make a change. When Lady Aurelia of Ahrensbach marries into the family, will she be bitter and ambitions, or will she be uncertain of her position? When Adolphine of the Duchy of Dunkelfelger keys on Rozemyne at the Royal Academy, is it because she's upholding a promise to the now-graduated Lady Eglantine, or is it because she spies value in the tiny blue-haired girl that no one else sees?

The number of scenes that lend one the impression of foreshadowing are high, but the number of scenes with legitimate action or drama are minimal. Readers may have to wait another volume to see if Philine's brief military training comes in handy, or if Ferdinand's warning about the conflict between the old factions' children usurping their parents ever comes to pass, or if Lady Adolphine's role swerves from pleasant nuisance to legitimate knave.

❯ ❯ Light-Novel Reviews || ahb writes on Good Reads

#writeblr #light novel #review #ascendance of a bookworm #honzuki no gekokujou #miya kazuki #myne #lady rozemyne #本好きの下剋上 #3 of 5 stars #goodreads #quof #adolphine #philine #brunhilde #awkward and interwoven castle affairs #equal delegation of opportunity #dunkelfelger

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ahb-writes · 11 months

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Book Review: 'Ascendance of a Bookworm' #16

Ascendance of a Bookworm #16 (4.4) by Miya Kazuki, You Shiina

adventure

fantasy

magic

library sciences

librarian

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Back to the grind.

Travel for seasonal prayer offerings. Business meetings to organize and expand the printing industry. Arguments with the nobility over the importance of cleaning up the lower city ahead of the duchy's planned growth. ASCENDANCE OF A BOOKWORM v16 slips into a more stable narrative pace that sees Lady Rozemyne returning to form as a businesswoman whose eccentricity yields surprises around every corner.

Nothing particularly dramatic or exciting happens in this volume, but as readers know well, sometimes, it's the little things that give Rozemyne's story the attention and flair it deserves.

For example, a journey up north to the province of Haldenzel proves enlightening. It's supposed to be a simple trip, during which Rozemyne and her Gutenbergs will check on the progress of Haldenzel's workshop. But a simple visit turns into a kind of festival, and an impromptu celebration turns into a miracle-inducing blessing for the history books. This blue-haired daughter of the aub may feign innocence ("I didn't want to get in trouble for blasting out blessings like some kind of party trick," page 214), but it's getting tougher to hide the fact that wherever this young woman goes, peculiar things follow (Angelica: "I think you're the most unusual of all, since you're the one who makes all these unusual things happen," page 229).

ASCENDANCE OF A BOOKWORM v16 also introduces a few nifty bits of overdue character growth for Rozemyne, including her direct tutelage under Ferdinand. The High Priest teaches the High Bishop a dash of magecraft and potion-making (or, "Professor Ferdinand's Brewing Lessons," as a certain someone calls them). The result of this educational effort is a clever (and dangerous) application of a startlingly common tool of craft.

Another bit of character development involves Rozemyne stepping deeper into the role of advisor and instructor to her own retinue. When Judithe (apprentice medknight, second year) proclaims her admiration for Angelica's competitiveness and focus, Rozemyne immediately chides the girl for ignoring her own strengths in lieu of chasing the unattainable. Judithe excels in ranged combat, why waste time working on sword skills? Know what you're good at, work hard to excel in that craft, and prove your worth with the knowledge and experience you've gained. Upon hearing this advice, the room goes silent.

Sylvester's report from the Archduke Conference is perhaps the largest plot point of the book. Here, Rozemyne learns who to keep track of, who to watch out for, and who to cozy up to during her next term at the Royal Academy. Can the young woman navigate such nuance when it counts? It's anyone's guess. The same goes for all of those marriage proposals that are flying about, whether for Rozemyne or for her siblings. If the Duchy of Ahrensbach can angle its claws around the throat of Ehrenfest, how long until the rogue duchy tightens its grip? And will Rozemyne and her allies discern Ahrensbach's target before it's too late?

❯ ❯ Light-Novel Reviews || ahb writes on Good Reads

#light novel #review #ascendance of a bookworm #honzuki no gekokujou #rozemyne #lady rozemyne #miya kazuki #you shiina #quof #ehrenfest #本好きの下剋上 #j novel club #haldenzel #archduke conference

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tada-no-honzuki · 2 years

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Ascendance of a Bookworm (24) Part 5 Volume 3 Chapter 15

This translation is not supposed to replace the official releases of the light novel series. Please purchase the official light novel when it becomes available!

Discussion with Eglantine

"I am sorry for calling you out here on such short notice."

Once we had finished our obligatory greetings, Eglantine offered me a seat on the sofa. When Oswin immediately started to prepare a sound-blocking barrier, Karstedt gave me a worried look, before taking a few steps back. As did Rihyarda.

Eglantine had already cleared the room and sat down on the sofa opposite me. She looked straight at me. It seemed that Anastasius was attending the graduation ceremony, and I would be speaking with her.

"Lady Rozemyne, we don't have much time,” she said. “So, please allow me to be straight with you."

“Of course,” I nodded. I would be grateful if she were direct with me, because I couldn't exactly say I was any good at interpreting noble euphemisms. It would only inconvenience everyone if I misinterpreted her because she beat around the bush.

When the High Bishop and High Priest of the Sovereign Temple had informed the Royal Family during lunch that the magic circle was used to select the next Zent, they had caused quite an uproar. It seemed that Trauerqual's oldest retainers, who had watched him struggle all this time and believed he deserved to have Grutrissheit, were feeling quite uneasy hearing that Detlinde might be the next Zent. Especially in light of today's events. On top of that, some people were claiming it was all orchestrated by Ferdinand. Because he could no longer manipulate me, he was now controlling Detlinde's actions.

"Opinions are divided, but Lord Trauerqual maintains that Grutrissheit is essential to rule over Yurgensmidt, and should Lady Detlinde truly have Grutrissheit, he intends to surrender the throne without a fight," Eglantine explained.

"I wonder, why would he willingly surrender the throne to Lady Detlinde, but did he send Lord Ferdinand to Ahrensbach when suspicion fell on him?"

I didn't understand why he unjustly accused Ferdinand and drove him to Ahrensbach, when he was clearly willing to give up his throne to someone who owned Grutrissheit. In that case, he surely could have waited for Ferdinand to find Grutrissheit and surrender the throne to him, right?

"I can only explain it as… the difference between their home duchies,” Eglantine said. “Ehrenfest's services to the crown have been recognized and after the next Archduke Conference, you will be treated the same as any duchy that sided with Lord Trauerqual during the civil war. However, it does not change that Ehrenfest was a neutral duchy at the time. If an Archduke Candidate from Ahrensbach, a greater duchy that supported the current king during the civil war, obtains Grutrissheit, the response from the other duchies will be completely different.”

It was impossible to say how many duchies would side with Ferdinand, were he to obtain Grutrissheit and become Zent. It seemed that if one considered Ehrenfest's ranking, population size, and manner of socializing, he was unfit for the job. His support base was too small. Eglantine also mentioned that someone would likely try to steal Grutrissheit from Ferdinand, throwing Yurgensmidt into chaos once more.

"The civil war began because the First Prince was dissatisfied that the Second Prince had inherited Grutrissheit and attacked him to steal it from him." Eglantine continued her explanation.

However, after killing the Second Prince, the First Prince failed to acquire Grutrissheit. He then suspected that his brother, the Third Prince, had it, and started a war.

“The Royal Family lost many of its members and loved ones in all the fighting,” Eglantine said. “That's why we would like to avoid any more disputes if possible. Should Lady Detlinde acquire Grutrissheit, then, that certainly brings its own difficulties. However, Lord Trauerqual seems to think that everything shall work out if she has Lord Ferdinand, who is knowledgeable in various areas, supporting her as her husband.”

…stop that thought immediately! You will kill Lord Ferdinand!

"However, we don't know if the Sovereign Temple is correct. So, we need to learn more about that magic circle as soon as possible. ......Lady Rozemyne, tell me, is the Sovereign Temple speaking the truth?"

Eglantine's orange eyes were locked on me, ready to see through any lies or trickery. I answered her anxious gaze with a polite smile.

"I am sorry, Lady Eglantine, the Dedication Whirl as a ritual is only performed at the Royal Academy, not in Ehrenfest."

"......so, you do not know either, I see."

Eglantine sighed regretfully. It pained my heart that I could not tell her everything I knew. However, I hadn't lied to her. Considering the wording of the scripture, "Ye who wish to be Zent, read on", one might assume the magic circle was somehow related to it. However, I didn't know the details, and I hadn't investigated it, so I could not say anything with absolute certainty.

"However, there are many documents on various rituals in the underground archive of the Royal Academy’s Library,” I said. “Lord Ferdinand has read them all, so he may know something.”

The words had barely passed my lips when Oswin announced, “Lord Ferdinand has arrived." We briefly suspended our conversation, so Eglantine could step outside the sound-blocking barrier to greet him. With the formalities taken care of, Ferdinand entered the sound-blocking barrier.

Justus and Eckhart, who had accompanied him, stood beside Karstedt, who was guarding me on this occasion. Karstedt and Eckhart, Rihyarda and Justus. Two sets of parent and child.

…let the sneaky exchange of information begin! I know for a fact that Sylvester gave Karstedt some small, folded piece of paper, and I’m sure Rihyarda also prepared something.

As these thoughts passed through my mind, Ferdinand looked down at me with a face that grumbled, "What are you doing here?"

"Lord Ferdinand, may I ask you to sit down next to Lady Rozemyne?" Eglantine said.

"Excuse me."

"How is Lady Detlinde? Had she been feeling ill prior to the ceremony?"

"No. It would appear she fell unconscious because the Dedication Whirl depleted her mana.” Ferdinand answered. “I already gave her a rejuvenation potion, so she will recover in time. I sincerely apologize for the disturbance caused by Ahrensbach's Archduke Candidate on this important day."

The eccentric hairdo, the sparkly dedication whirl, collapsing and falling unconscious, activating an unknown magic circle. ..... Ferdinand apologized for all the shocking events of the day.

“I tried to stop her, but she would not listen to me. Please forgive my inadequacy."

While expressing his regret, Ferdinand pulled out the recording tool he had taken only this morning and started to play the recording. We heard how Ferdinand warned her that wearing all five hairpins would be disrespectful to the Royal Family. To which Detlinde sourly replied, "So I just need to reduce the number of hairpins, right?"

“Of course, I never imagined that agreeing to reduce the hairpins meant she would add other hair accessories." Ferdinand sighed.

As I reflexively muttered, "You certainly had a rough morning, Lord Ferdinand," Eglantine gave a wry smile.

"Something bigger than any of Lady Detlinde's shenanigans has happened,” she said. “So, let us not dwell on it. You may rest assured."

As she said those words, Ferdinand seemed to relax a little, then gave a frown.

"Since I received a royal summons right after Lady Detlinde made a fool of herself, I assumed I was being called to account. ......was it just an excuse to discuss something concerning Rozemyne?"

"No, the matter most certainly concerns Lady Detlinde.” Eglantine assured him. “During lunch, a certain declaration of the Sovereign Temple left us in a state of confusion, so we are currently trying to gather as much information as possible. I heard from Aub Ehrenfest and Lady Rozemyne that you are well-acquainted with the Temple's rituals, Lord Ferdinand."

As Eglantine smiled apologetically, Ferdinand for some reason glared at me. The question, "What exactly did you say to get me involved?" was written on his face.

"I only told her you were well informed, Lord Ferdinand,” I said. “That's true, right?"

"......may I ask you to tell me what happened?”

As Ferdinand sighed in resignation, Eglantine and I told him what had transpired, including the declaration of the Sovereign Temple.

"So, are you familiar with the magic circle that appeared on the stage during the Dedication Whirl, Lord Ferdinand?" Eglantine asked.

Ferdinand nodded slowly, "I do," then stopped. He refused to say another word, causing Eglantine to probe further.

"The Sovereign Temple says it is used to select the next Zent..."

“I must say I am surprised that the Sovereign Temple knows that much,” Ferdinand said, clearly surprised. “Considering they can't even read their whole Bible.”

At last year's Bible investigation, it had become clear the priests of the Sovereign Temple were able to read less than half of the Bible. Therefore, I thought it highly unlikely they could see the floating circle on the first page of the book. Still, they had been able to identify a magic circle that had only appeared for a moment. Even I was impressed with their knowledge.

“In Ehrenfest's temple, there are wooden reference boards and old copies of the Bible, that the gray priests use to prepare for the ceremonies,” I said. “It's possible the Sovereign Temple also has a book room with documents that can be read by anyone, even those without mana."

As I fondly thought about the book room of the Sovereign Temple, which I had never entered before, Ferdinand glared, "I am not saying you are wrong, but shut up!" As I quickly closed my mouth, Eglantine gave a wry smile, then frowned.

"So, you are saying the Sovereign Temple is speaking the truth and that magic circle is definitely for selecting the next Zent?"

“I cannot say they are absolutely wrong,” Ferdinand replied. “But why are you asking us this?"

In response, Eglantine placed a hand on her cheek and said, “This is kind of embarrassing, but there is no one in the Royal Family who is familiar with the Temple's affairs.”

Since a gap had formed between the Temple and the Royal Family, they didn't have the knowledge to refute the Sovereign Temple's claim.

“By performing the dedication ritual at the Royal Academy, Lady Rozemyne has earned the trust of the Royal Family as a High Bishop capable of performing authentic temple rituals,” Eglantine explained. “That's why we decided to consult her on the matter......"

“That's not what I meant,” Ferdinand grumbled. “I am fairly sure I communicated this through Rozemyne, but... there are records in the underground archive of the Royal Academy’s Library that contain necessary knowledge for all Royals and Archduke Candidates. Knowing this, why does the Royal Family still lack this knowledge?......did you not inform them of this?”

As Ferdinand send a piercing glare my way, I quickly shook my head.

"I told them,” I assured him. “I even went to the underground archive with the princes and helped them make contemporary translations of the records.”

"......did I not forbid you from entering that archive?"

I had planned to keep it a secret, but now I had stupidly exposed myself. In a panic, I explained, "B-But it was a royal order! I could not refuse!” Whatever I had done had been beyond my control.

"We requested Lady Rozemyne, who is proficient in the archaic language, to help us understand the texts.” Eglantine intervened. “Please do not scold her."

"Rozemyne has an all-consuming passion for books,” Ferdinand said. “Since only the Royal Family and some Archduke Candidates can enter that archive, it is impossible to say whom she may disrespect once she goes inside. It would be best for everyone if she did not enter."

Considering I had given Sigiswald nothing but half-hearted replies, and got myself dragged out by Anastasius, I could not object.

"But Prince Sigiswald and Prince Anastasius can barely understand the old texts.” I protested. “So, what was I to do? It is already decided that Lady Hannelore and I will be helping them out during the Archduke Conference as well.”

When I explained that the princes had a tough time reading the archaic language, Ferdinand scowled.

"So, you have taken charge......?” Ferdinand sighed. “Then, they will have a long way to go."

"What do you mean by that?" I asked.

"You always start from the top left, then work your way down, right? Be it the book room of the Temple, Karstedt's estate, the Castle, or my estate, you always do. If I remember correctly, the materials covering that magic circle are on the lowest shelf, so it will be a while until you get there."

…he is right! I always start reading from the top left corner, then work my way down the rows to make sure I do not miss anything. How on earth did he figure that out!?

"Anyway, that archive is packed with the necessary knowledge for the next Zent. If you cannot rely on the Temple, you must start by reading what is available in the archive. If you truly believe it necessary, you must learn to read the archaic language."

"......we don't have time for that." Eglantine protested.

I remembered how pale the King had looked when he was living on a diet of rejuvenation potions, just as Ferdinand was right now. It would certainly be difficult for him to find the time to study.

“Rozemyne learned to read the old language in a season or two by poring over the bible on a daily basis, while simultaneously memorizing the prayers necessary for the temple's ceremonies, and struggling to reorganize the orphanage,” Ferdinand objected. “Busy as you may be, you can familiarize yourselves with the old language by reading in your beds, just like Rozemyne."

Eglantine looked at me like I was crazy. Certainly, when I was learning the prayers as an Apprentice Blue Shrine Maiden, I felt like I was staring at wooden boards every day. It seemed such a long time ago that I had been complaining about the long names of the gods.

“Since it seems there truly is no time today, I will tell you what you need to know, but only this once.” Ferdinand conceded. “However, if you cannot read the materials that you need yourselves, you cannot tell how the information you are given may be incorrect. I believe it is a necessary skill for the Zent to be able to read the old language. The Grutrissheit that was bestowed onto us by the Goddess of Wisdom Mestionora is probably far older than the Bible that the High Bishop holds."

As Ferdinand made his point, Eglantine looked up with a start. Now that he mentioned it, he was probably right. The Grutrissheit that was bestowed onto the King by the Goddess of Wisdom was most definitely much older than the Bible, which described the method to become King.

"The magic circle in question is used to select the Zent Candidates,” Ferdinand explained. “However, it is wrong to say that Lady Detlinde is closest to becoming the next Zent."

I only knew it emerged from the Bible, so I listened intently to his explanation as well.

"All that magic circle does is measure whether a Royal or an Archduke Candidate has enough mana to become the Zent."

Apparently, the magic circle could be made to appear by offering mana through the Dedication Whirl or a prayer to the gods. Only those who had all the attributes, and enough mana would be able to erect a pillar of light.

"Only those who have been able to erect the pillar of light can move on to the next step,” Ferdinand continued. “Since Lady Detlinde was unable to properly activate the magic circle, she does not have the qualifications to become Zent."

"However, neither I nor Lord Anastasius activated the magic circle......"

Eglantine anxiously looked at Ferdinand. If Detlinde had been able to do something that the Royal Family could not, the Sovereign Temple's claim that "Lady Detlinde is closest to becoming the next Zent," would in fact be correct.

“It's essential that you pray to the gods and offer your mana during the Dedication Whirl to erect the pillar. Lady Detlinde danced while releasing her mana to make feystones glow. No one has ever done either of those, so the magic circle just never emerged."

Ferdinand basically said it was pure chance that Detlinde had been able to make the magic circle glow.

"You can verify it yourself with the other Royals,” Ferdinand suggested. “Fortunately, Ehrenfest and Dunkelfelger's joint research also revealed the way how to increase one's attributes. So, why don't you go ahead and try to activate the magic circle, while simultaneously offering prayers and mana to the gods, and redoing the Invocation ritual?"

Eglantine muttered, "Offering mana while dancing?" in response while glancing at me. “Then, may I ask you to help us? I heard that you gave blessings during Whirl practice, Lady Rozemyne?"

Ferdinand immediately refused Eglantine's request. "We don't need any more suspicion drawn to us than we already have. When you are used to praying, and overflowing with mana like Rozemyne, you will be able to trigger the magic circle quicker than Detlinde did. However, that alone is not enough to decide on the next Zent. You would merely be a Zent Candidate. The important thing comes next......"

Eglantine softly muttered, "What is next?" But Ferdinand ignored her question and instead focused on what would happen should I make the magic circle emerge.

“I assume the Royal Family is well aware that even if Rozemyne assumed the position of Zent, Ehrenfest would not be able to adequately support her. Not to mention, if we conduct a large-scale verification of the Dedication Whirl, Zent Candidates would spring up like mushrooms from all Duchies. It would only become a source of unnecessary discord. The Royal Family will have to perform the verification of the Dedication Whirl themselves."

Eglantine's eyes darted around the room as Ferdinand flatly refused her, like she was searching for the right words. Then she hesitantly opened her mouth.

“Lord Ferdinand, what do you think of the people who claim you are planning to become the next Zent and are looking for Grutrissheit by manipulating Lady Detlinde and Lady Rozemyne?”

"It is suspicious that the very year I moved to Ahrensbach, Lady Detlinde made an unknown magic circle appear,” Ferdinand replied without batting an eye. “I am sure the Knights Commander has told you that much."

His nonchalance irritated me. There was no way he did not feel the slightest bit irritated his loyalty was still being questioned even after he obediently went to Ahrensbach, despite his misgivings.

"I frankly think the Zent is surrounded by people who say the most ludicrous things,” I said. “Although he already refused Aub Ahrensbach's request, Lord Ferdinand ultimately went to Ahrensbach at the King's order, did he not?"

When I expressed my honest feelings, Eglantine's eyes widened in shock. I think I made the right call when I decided to swallow, "It seems you all conveniently forgot about that."

"Rozemyne, I believe I told you to shut up." Ferdinand glared at me with narrowed eyes. However, I refused to shut up.

"We cannot convey our information and thoughts to the Royal Family if we remain silent. It is much simpler to tell them everything, instead of putting on a calm facade, while fostering anger and hatred. Did you not teach me yourself, Lord Ferdinand, that it is important to hear all sides of an issue?" I said, sternly returning his glare.

Ferdinand sighed, bidding me once again to shut up, "Yes, but you are being disrespectful to the Royal Family."

"You accepted the King's order exactly to avoid this kind of suspicion, did you not? Knowing that you might end up breaking the final promise you made to your father because of it! If after all that, you still have not earned their trust, then whatever did you accept the King's order for!?"

Ferdinand momentarily shut his mouth, as if he were stuck for an answer, then said, "Rozemyne, that's enough. It is fine......" in another attempt to stop me.

"No, it's not fine.” I objected. “People cannot act on the information they do not have. Sometimes it is important to express one's thoughts and feelings without holding back. Don't you agree, Lady Eglantine?"

Eglantine nodded with a smile, "Yes, it is very important. Now, please explain your circumstances, Lord Ferdinand. It might not be worth much, but I may be able to help you."

"I don't know what evidence the Royal Family and the Commander of the Knights Order have to doubt Lord Ferdinand's intentions,” I said. “But please believe me when I say all he is interested in is research, and all he wants is research time and his own workshop. There is no need to doubt him. It is a waste of your time. He even told me, that, if possible, he wants to hole up in his workshop and immerse himself into his research day and night."

Eglantine giggled when I insisted that he was happiest when holed up in his temple workshop.

"Lord Ferdinand, is Lady Rozemyne speaking the truth?" Eglantine asked, fixing her eyes on him.

After pinching my cheek and grumbling, "You did not need to tell her that," he sighed in resignation. "I will leave it to your discretion whether you believe me or not, but I have no intention to become the Zent"

Even if Eglantine believed him, it was impossible to say whether the other Royals would. However, his situation could change greatly if at least someone in the Royal Family understood him a little.

“But you are knowledgeable about many rituals. You say that you never considered taking Grutrissheit for yourself, Lord Ferdinand?” Eglantine asked, perfectly serious. Ferdinand wore a painfully bitter smile.

“I do not intend to ever lay my hands on Grutrissheit. I do not wish to become Zent and live for the sake of Yurgensmidt."

"Yes, yes. I totally understand.” I agreed. “If you become the Zent, you would be too busy with paperwork to do any research, right? I wouldn't want to lose any of my reading time either."

Although I completely agreed with Ferdinand’s mentality, he grumbled, "Don't lump me in with the likes of you," wearing a deeply displeased look.

"Huh? Is there another reason?" I asked.

"There is, but it does not matter."

…if it doesn't matter, that means it is nothing major, right?

Eglantine, looking between Ferdinand and me, said, "Then, I have one more question for Lady Rozemyne. Aub Klassenburg told me you refused his offer to do joint research and perform the dedication ritual again......"

"Yes. It's too heavy a burden for Ehrenfest."

I went on to explain that we had had to finish our own dedication ritual posthaste to transport the Divine Tools to the Royal Academy in time, that the High Priest had only been allowed to visit on the day of, which had put a great burden on him, that preparing enough rejuvenation potions had been difficult, and that it was very likely I had to return to Ehrenfest next year to perform the duchy's Dedication ritual.

“I wonder, what role would Klassenburg take in this joint research?” I asked.

“It seems the Aub wanted to discuss that with you,” Eglantine replied. “He was taken rather aback you cut off the negotiations before they even started."

"However, you cannot order another duchy's temple to lend you their Divine Tools, because you want to hold a dedication ritual at the Royal Academy,” I said. “It would affect next year's harvest. Also, as I explained during the dedication ritual, I am not the one who originally concocted that rejuvenation potion."

Eglantine's eyes immediately turned to look at Ferdinand. It seemed she already had an idea of who did. However, he ignored her stare. After the Starbind Ceremony next year, Ferdinand would officially join Ahrensbach. He probably felt he had nothing to do with the joint research of Klassenburg and Ehrenfest.

Besides, rather than publishing the recipe through our joint research with Klassenburg, he'd better save it as a trump card for a rainy day. If you asked me, he could never have enough trump cards to clean up Detlinde's messes and avoid being implicated.

“Of course, I agree with Klassenburg's desire to offer mana to the Royal Family,” I stated. “However, is it truly research that should be left to the students of the Royal Academy? I believe it will be hard to make it an annual event, unless we can borrow the Divine Tools and some priests from the Sovereign Temple, Klassenburg provides the rejuvenation potions for the participants using a recipe of their own, and all Ehrenfest's High Priest needs to do is lead the proceedings."

I thought I successfully concealed the fact I did not want to lose any of my precious reading time preparing and cleaning up joint research that had no other purpose than providing the Royal Family with mana. As I congratulated myself for a job well done, Ferdinand softly tapped his temple, looking at me like I was some incompetent child.

…huh? Did I mess up after all?

"I understand what you are saying, Lady Rozemyne.” Eglantine agreed. “I see there are many circumstances that make it challenging to perform the ritual each year. I shall relay your answer to the Royal Family and Aub Klassenburg."

In the end, our conversation concluded before the Graduation Ceremony ended. Although Anastasius had only summoned me, Eglantine had invited Ferdinand at her own discretion. It came to my ears that Anastasius had shown his understanding for her decision considering the urgency of the matter, but his jealousy still had been giving her a bit of trouble.

…it seems Prince Anastasius still acts like Ewigeliebe.

#Translation #P5V3

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