Merchant Noble is out (2/2 chapters for today)
Celebration
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Although there was a big fight between Louis and Casablanca during the day, a big celebration was held in the evening as the matter was settled after Louis defeated Leo.
Louis rose from the throne, raising what appeared to be a luxurious wine. The nobles also raised their glasses in unison.
“Then, in commemoration of the return of light to the kingdom and in celebration of the eternal bond between the royal family and the nobles, cheers!” (Louis)
“Cheers!!” (??)
The atmosphere quickly shifted to one of friendly conversation. The nobles rejoiced in reuniting after a long time and proudly boasted about how they had survived the battle with Leo. Naturally, no one approached Arc. He had always been isolated as someone from a merchant background, and after the recent battle with Leo, he had become completely ignored. Knowing he would likely be dismissed even if he initiated conversation, Arc decided to head toward Casablanca.
“Where is His Highness Casablanca?” (Arc)
“It’s best not to approach now…” (Fran)
Spotting Fran, the First Unit of Casablanca’s personal guard, Arc inquired about Casablanca’s whereabouts. Despite her warning, Fran informed him of where Casablanca was.
Arc was well aware that Casablanca had been in a foul mood since the day’s meeting. Though he wasn’t keen on meeting, he still needed to express his gratitude for Casablanca’s defense of the Warden Household. Despite being the viceroy, Casablanca was quietly drinking wine at the edge of the venue. Naturally, no one was near her, and to an unknowing observer, she wouldn’t appear to be someone in such a high position.
“Another royal territory has been lost. This only strengthens the nobles’ power…” (Casablanca)
Arc cautiously expressed his gratitude as Casablanca muttered to herself.
“Your Highness. Thank you for speaking on my behalf earlier today.” (Arc)
“Hm? Arc…” (Casablanca)
There was an empty chair beside Casablanca, but since she didn’t invite him to sit, Arc continued the conversation while standing.
“Even though the land is in ruin and the people are suffering, just look at them.” (Casablanca)
She glared at the nobles enjoying themselves, her gaze filled with resentment, likely fueled by the earlier dispute as well.
“They’ve regained power. One night of celebration should be acceptable.” (Arc)
“There was nothing left in the capital, not even luxurious chairs, tables, or food. So, everything for tonight’s banquet, from the carpets to the curtains and even the wine, had to be brought in from nearby noble territories. Truly, a fine privilege.” (Casablanca)
Casablanca scanned the entire venue and sighed deeply.
Although the venue had been in poor condition, it had been decorated so lavishly that it was now unrecognizable from its previous state. Only now did Arc realize that this place had been a ruin just days ago. The preparations must have been rushed.
“Leave me alone for a bit.” (Casablanca)
It seemed Casablanca wanted to be alone with her thoughts.
Seeing this as a welcome opportunity, Arc bowed and left her side. Although leaving Casablanca was a relief, mingling with the other nobles was no less uncomfortable. Feeling awkward, Arc stepped onto the balcony for some fresh air, where he found someone already there. It was Marie.
“Your Highness Marie.” (Arc)
“Arc-sama!” (Marie)
“It has been a while.” (Arc)
“Hehe. Didn’t we just meet at the meeting earlier today?” (Marie)
“No, I meant it’s been a while since I last met you here on this balcony.” (Arc)
“Ah, I see.” (Marie)
This was the second time Arc had met Marie on this balcony.
He recalled the time when Zerold, the previous king, was still alive.
They had sneaked out from Habarov Summon’s banquet, dashed through the streets during a festival, climbed the castle walls, and watched the fireworks together. And after that…
As Arc was lost in thought, Marie’s face turned red, as if she had been remembering the same thing.
“Those were truly nostalgic times.” (Marie)
She looked toward the city below with a somewhat forlorn expression.
“Back then, Father was still with us, and the streets were bustling with people. The view from here was so different.” (Marie)
Her eyes glistened with sadness, as if tears were about to spill down her cheeks.
It was understandable. Where once houses had crowded the streets, now all that remained was a charred wasteland. The capital, once illuminated even at night, now lay in darkness, even dimmer than Mikanda. Marie’s kind heart must have been deeply pained by the extent of the devastation.
“Would you come to my territory, Marie-sama?” (Arc)
“Huh?” (Marie)
Without thinking, the words slipped from Arc’s mouth as he tried to offer her some comfort.
Only when Marie looked at him in surprise did he realize the implications of what he had just said. It sounded like a proposal.
“N-no, I didn’t mean it like that… I just thought the abundance of nature might bring you some peace, Marie-sama.” (Arc)
As Arc hurried to explain himself, Marie smiled warmly and pondered his offer.
Staying in the capital would only leave her caught between Louis and Casablanca, exhausting her. It wasn’t a bad suggestion for her, either.
After gazing at the dark city below for a while, Marie turned to Arc with a grateful expression.
“Thank you for the kind offer. I truly appreciate it.” (Marie)
“Then…” (Arc)
“But I will remain in the capital.” (Marie)
With a determined expression, Marie made her decision.
“As a member of the royal family, I cannot run away from the kingdom’s restoration. Fortunately, I have strong ties with the church. With the help of religion, I hope to bring solace to those who are grieving.” (Marie)
“I see.” (Arc)
Hearing her conviction, Arc could do nothing but step back.
He had always thought of her as a gentle and quiet girl, but it seemed she had matured considerably since their last encounter. Impressed, Arc knelt and kissed her hand in a gesture of loyalty.
“The Warden Household will provide every possible support. Please call on us whenever you need.” (Arc)
“Thank you, Arc-sama.” (Marie)
She’s becoming more like Casablanca.
Arc was thinking about this as he looked at Marie’s confident expression.
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