Dragged by Selina, Kassel found himself frantically carrying food and barrels of liquor. Despite being a man unknown to them, no one in the kitchen, filled only with women, questioned his presence with remarks like, ‘What are you doing here?’
The female head chef, who seemed to weigh twice as much as Kassel, blatantly ordered him around. When one of the maids who recognized Kassel whispered, ‘That man will be someone high up in the Wolf Knights,’ the chef just barked, ‘Great. Then bring a few of those Wolf guys to help carry the plates!’
Kassel, unable to utter a word in protest, simply followed orders.
‘What am I even doing right now?’
As he moved back and forth through the hall preparing for the party, Kassel had this thought about thirty times. But, as is often the case with work, time flew by in the midst of the chaos.
After making full use of him, Selina showed a semblance of consideration by telling him to take a break. Kassel, with his hands aching from the heavy lifting, looked around the hall.
While carrying food and bottles, he hadn’t noticed, but now saw that the hall was filled with robust knights he didn’t recognize. He spotted Sheyden too. It seemed they hadn’t met in a long time, as Sheyden was busy conversing with other Wolf Knights.
Sheyden did not come over to introduce Kassel to the other knights nor acknowledge him, possibly out of annoyance from their recent parting.
‘It’s the Wolf Knights. The very place I’ve dreamed of. No time for gloomy thoughts!’
Kassel reassured himself.
He tried to match the knights’ names and faces he had memorized from Sheyden’s notes. Sometimes, when he recognized a name from their conversation, he would cautiously approach to confirm who was who.
The Wolves seemed largely indifferent to Kassel’s presence. The Council of Elders he had seen in the meeting earlier were drinking together, and the maids, while carrying food and drinks, naturally mingled with everyone. The tone of their conversations was so dignified that it was hard to distinguish who was a maid and who was an elder.
‘It seems like everyone from the Aranthia Royal Family is here.’
This was fortunate for Kassel. The more people and diverse the gathering, the less he stood out.
‘I don’t need to be a part of the Wolf Knights.’
This thought was sincere. And it was only after having this thought that he felt at ease. The Wolf Knights were neither an adversary to fight nor one to subdue. He didn’t even dare to think of becoming their friend. It was enough just to observe them.
Once he accepted this, his initial embarrassment at standing with his back against the wall faded, and he felt comfortable. He realized that the spot Selina had told him to rest in was the best place to observe all the Wolf Knights in the hall. The tray she had given him turned into a convenient tool to approach the Wolves.
To dominate the Wolves, one might need to stand on the stairs and deliver a speech, but to befriend them, offering a drink was enough.
“Let me carry that for you.”
As a maid passed by, Kassel politely took the tray with drinks from her. The unnamed maid handed over the tray to Kassel without hesitation.
“Are you not tired?”
“I’m better after a bit of rest. And this tray seems like it will become my weapon.”
“True, there was once a knight who split a tree in two with a tray like that. Well, I need to carry something else, so I’ll leave you to it…”
The maid returned to the kitchen with an expressionless face.
‘In two?’
Kassel muttered to himself, looking at the blunt end of the tray.
The only knight he knew well, both by face and name, was Sildire. She was standing alone against the wall, not mingling with the other knights, drinking juice.
“Do they say you’re too young to drink?”
Kassel approached her and started the conversation.
“No, everyone offers, but I don’t like the taste. I secretly tried some wine that Azwin said cost dozens of gold coins per bottle, but it wasn’t great. The rest just taste harsh. Do I really have to drink that? Or is it that I have to drink it to be considered an adult?”
Despite anticipating it, Kassel still wasn’t used to Sildire’s blunt manner of speaking.
“How could that be? I’m here carrying liquor. If you didn’t drink, I wouldn’t be able to stay here.”
“Carrying liquor?”
Sildire seriously asked, looking at Kassel wearing an apron stained with wine splatters and his sleeves rolled up.
“You got a job at the royal court?”
“Temporary work. Not sure if they’ll pay me.”
Kassel jokingly replied while checking the ten different types of alcohol on the tray.
“If you like orange juice, how about this one? This yellow one.”
“I don’t drink alcohol.”
“Come on, try it. It’s the thought that counts for bringing it here. It might be surprisingly good.”
Sildire cautiously took one, sniffed it, and then set it down.
“It’s alcohol!”
“Then try the blue one next to it.”
“…Hmm? This one’s not bad.”
“Try it.”
Sildire tasted it lightly and then nodded.
“This is juice?”
“It’s actually alcohol, too. And it’s probably stronger. You could just dip your tongue in it and take it out all party long.”
“Disgusting.”
“Being called disgusting by a kid like you hurts this old man’s heart.”
Despite Kassel’s repeated attempts at humor, Sildire did not crack a smile.
‘Well, my jokes used to work in the past, but since hanging out with Gerald, they seem to have lost their touch.’
Sildire continued to wet her lips with the alcohol she held, without putting it down.
A knight passed by and grabbed a bottle from Kassel’s tray.
“Can I drink this? Hey, hi, Sildire. You drinking too?”
“Is that a problem?”
Sildire responded defensively.
“Just happy to hear you’re drinking.”
The knight downed the drink in one go and took another before leaving. Grateful for the lighter tray, Kassel asked,
“Is that knight Leonard?”
“How did you know?”
“I’ve been memorizing the names I’ve heard since I’ve been here. Is that one Malra?”
The woman was taller than Azwin, with dark skin and hair. Her arm muscles were thicker than those of the men, and her shoulders were broad, not falling short of any of the robust men here. Compared to her, Sildire looked fragile, like a doll.
“Yeah, that’s Malra. Her slashing skills are not great, but her sweeping skills are incredibly sharp. I was knocked out once because I couldn’t block it and didn’t wake up for two days.”
Sildire tapped her neck, showing where a scar still remained.
“That must have hurt.”
“Of course it hurt. How could it not?”
“Who’s that person over there?”
Kassel quickly changed the subject, pointing to someone else.
“That’s a servant.”
“Ah. Hard to tell with the similar attire.”
In this manner, Kassel was able to confirm quite a few names of the Wolves through Sildire. Though her voice was indifferent, she answered all his questions, seemingly having nothing better to do.
“Is that knight Franz, the one who just passed? He’s quite skilled, isn’t he?”
Kassel asked Sildire, referring to a blond man who had just walked by.
Knight Franz was standing with his colleagues, listening to their conversation, but he himself said nothing. Yet, Kassel could tell from the atmosphere that everyone enjoyed talking with him. All their conversations revolved around swordsmanship, making it hard for Kassel to understand.
‘Is this what Azwin meant when she said the Wolves at the party are boring?’
Sildire commented.
“Yeah, the last one to become a White Wolf was Dunmel, but everyone actually expected Franz to be chosen. I think he’s more than qualified to be a White Wolf, but strangely, those five haven’t chosen a sixth. People say they’re restraining themselves because five is already an unprecedented number in history…”
Sildire paused, glancing at Kassel, who had been bringing a large piece of cheesecake to his mouth. He felt her gaze and closed his mouth. Sildire blinked and asked,
“Speaking of which, about Jaymer, the guy you were with.”
“What about Jaymer?”
“If he’s really a guy the White Wolves brought in as captain material, I think he must be at least as good as Franz. Actually, all the others said the same. Irine personally brought him to the training ground to introduce him.”
Kassel recalled Irine taking Jaymer away, saying he needed to move his body.
‘While I was carrying food in the kitchen, Jaymer must have accomplished something.’
Sildire spoke in a lowered voice.
“Irine said he’s her disciple. They were going to have Franz and him duel right away, but Franz refused, saying he can’t fight with an injured person. But Jaymer shouted to bring a sword, saying he could fight even with that kind of injury.”
Sildire paused for a moment, then moistened her lips with a cocktail. Kassel took the opportunity to eat a bit of the cheesecake. It was so delicious that it blocked out other conversations.
‘Wow, this cake should never be served during meetings. No one would be able to concentrate on the agenda. Just like me right now.’
Sildire, unaware that Kassel was distracted, continued.
“In the end, Irine intervened, and they agreed to have the match tomorrow… But is he really captain material? I don’t like his attitude, even if we ignore his skills.”
“If you don’t like him, just reject him.”
Kassel, wiping cream from his mouth, responded.
Sildire shook her head.
“The other Wolves all liked him. It’s useless if I’m the only one who says no. Are you going to say the same thing?”
“Then who do you think should be the captain, Sildire?”
“The true captain should be Sheyden. Some may disagree, but there’s no man cooler than Sheyden.”
Kassel often thought the same and couldn’t dismiss it as just a young girl’s fantasy.
Sheyden was a man capable of taking on the captain’s role. However, Sheyden was someone who performed best when he was out of the captain’s position. Considering the positions among the existing White Wolves, it might be more effective for Loyal to be the captain, with Sheyden advising on the side, and Azwin or Gerald acting as spokespeople.
But that way, Loyal’s strength wouldn’t be showcased. He became timid quickly when he had to stand in front of others.
“Sheyden has already been playing the role of a great captain. He even talked about you for a moment…”
To be precise, it was something written about Sildire.
“About me? Really? When?”
Sildire’s eyes widened with excitement.
‘Yeah, Sheyden only wrote it down and didn’t tell me his opinions directly. Was I the only one supposed to know the content of that notebook?’
Kassel, feeling he might have said too much, tried to backtrack, but seeing Sildire’s sparkling eyes, he felt compelled to tell her.
“Yes, really. Recently.”
“What did he say?”
Kassel recalled what was written in the notes about Sildire’s swordsmanship.
‘When she focuses on the enemy in front of her, she tends to expose her flank. Because her frontal attacks are so strong, she thinks she doesn’t need to guard her sides, which doesn’t work against the Wolves who know this. She needs to realize this herself, but her pride gets in the way of making changes. Pushing her too hard might cause her to rebel or doubt her own skills, so it’s a delicate matter.’
Kassel paused, about to recite this directly. He wanted to demonstrate it physically, though he knew he couldn’t do it like Jaymer or Sheyden.
He stepped back, placing the plate with the cheesecake aside.
“Try hitting my forehead with your hand. I’ll block it.”
Sildire, not understanding his intent, put her drink down and prepared a mock strike.
“Just do it.”
Kassel quickly added, sensing her intensity,
“Gently!”
“Okay, gently.”
Yet Sildire struck hard and fast at Kassel’s forehead. If this was her idea of gentle, Kassel shuddered to think how strong her full force would be. He managed to block with his forearm, but the impact made his own arm hit his forehead, causing him to stagger.
He had planned to lightly tap Sildire’s side afterwards, pointing out, ‘See? You expose your flank when you attack.’ But the moment he was hit by Sildire’s hand, his vision flashed. He staggered and then collapsed.
Sildire picked up her drink again and finished it.
“So what were you trying to do?”
Kassel, dazed and unsure whether the pain was from his forearm or the self-inflicted blow to his forehead, couldn’t respond.
Sildire licked her finished drink and waited for Kassel to stand up.
“…I told you to go easy.”
Kassel, struggling to his feet and leaning against the wall, groaned.
“I did go easy.”
“If that’s easy, a strong hit could kill someone.”
Kassel grumbled.
Sildire nodded.
“Yeah. I could kill someone.”
Kassel felt a chill. The Wolf Knights were a force to be reckoned with, more than he had realized.
Rubbing his head again, he imagined a hypothetical opponent in front of him.
“Imagine a lumberjack in front of me, about 2 meters tall, muscular, and twice my weight.”
Sildire listened, amused.
“Suppose I suddenly discover his weakness is exposing his flank when striking from above. Would I then tell the lumberjack, ‘Hit me on the head, I’ll try to block’? No. Even if I knew his weakness, I wouldn’t do such a foolish thing. I made a big mistake just by judging your appearance, Knight Sildire. I apologize.”
Kassel bowed deeply, one hand on his waist and the other on his chest. Sildire burst out laughing.
“A lumberjack twice my weight?”
“…More frightening than a girl.”
“Is that a compliment?”
“It’s both a compliment and a tease.”
“So, my weakness is my flank?”
“That’s what Sheyden noted about you. He said improving that would make you even better.”
Sildire seemed to have expected something different and looked disappointed.
“I thought he’d talk about something other than swordsmanship.”
“Well, Sheyden can be a bit insensitive about that.”
Sildire, lost in thought, suddenly left without saying goodbye.
“Hey, take care.”
Kassel called after her but didn’t try to stop her. Sildire didn’t look back.
“Was I too blunt?”
He regretted it a bit, but his throbbing head didn’t allow much room for reflection.
“Saw everything. What was that about?”
Jaymer approached, asking curiously.
Kassel removed his hand from his forehead and cleared his throat.
“I heard. You were planning to have a match with Knight Franz?”
“That? Everyone’s buzzing about it. I guess they’re excited to have someone new to spar with since they’re always facing the same people.”
“That’s normal for them, isn’t it?”
“Even without saying anything, many thought me as the captain. I’ve been introduced to so many people that I can’t remember all their names now.”
Kassel felt a bit envious.
‘If Jaymer had been here, he would have blocked Sildire’s hand and tapped her waist, giving some cool advice.’
Trying not to show his jealousy, Kassel smiled and said,
“Do well. You can be a part of the Wolf Knights.”
“I don’t particularly want to. It’s just nice to have someone to compete with.”
Jaymer looked at the Wolves earnestly conversing against the wall. Kassel pointed in their direction and asked,
“What do you think about those knights?”
“They’re strong. I haven’t faced them yet, but none can be underestimated.”
“Face them tomorrow. And let me know.”
Their conversation was interrupted as two knights approached.
“Hey, Jaymer. Heard you’re the new captain?”
The man’s voice boomed like a trumpet, resonating with deep bass. Jaymer, tired of hearing such talk, replied,
“Who’s spreading that nonsense?”
“Doesn’t matter. If Master Irine personally picked you as her disciple, becoming a Wolf Knight is no issue. That alone deserves a welcome. My name is Coen, and this is Putier.”
Putier, unlike the other knights, was slightly stout. He had a friendly smile that would fit someone who ran a mill next door.
“I can’t remember all the names I’ve heard today, more than twenty. Do you think I have such a good memory?”
Jaymer waved his hand dismissively. Instead, Kassel spoke up,
“You were the ones playing chess in front of the dormitory earlier, right? Nice to meet you.”
“Ah, and you are?”
Coen inquired.
“I’m Kassel, a friend of Jaymer.”
“Oh, so if the captain isn’t that ugly wizard from Lutia, then here’s another candidate.”
Coen laughed loudly, implying it was a joke.
“It’s not right to joke about someone’s appearance.”
Suddenly, Selina appeared beside the two men and spoke up. She had a tray neatly placed on her hip and glared at them, her long hair tied up high in a working style, contrasting with the neatly dressed other maids.
“I’m sorry. It was just a joke. Any wine here?”
Coen apologized with a grin.
“I was in charge of the cheesecakes, and they’re all gone now. You’ll find wine on the tables, help yourself.”
Selina replied confidently, leaving Coen feeling awkward with his forced smile.
“Well, I guess I should get more wine then.”
Kassel addressed Coen as he was about to leave.
“I’d like to play chess with you sometime. I enjoy it, but I haven’t had a chance to play recently.”
Master Quain and Eryl had mentioned that Coen and Putier were very enthusiastic about chess. According to Sheyden’s journal, ‘If only they spent less time playing chess, they would both be exceptional talents.’
Putier pointed at Kassel with the eagerness of a lion spotting its prey.
“Definitely!”
Kassel responded with a pointing gesture of his own.
Selina asked,
“How’s the cake?”
In the brighter light, Kassel could faintly recognize the face of the Queen he had seen the night before in Selina. Had her voice not been so thin, one might suspect the bored Queen had changed clothes and was playing at being a maid. She possessed an elegance and nobility akin to an aristocrat.
Kassel remembered Sheyden saying that the maids of Nadium were not mere workers of the royal court. The Wolf Knights, too, never treated the maids as mere servants.
“I haven’t finished eating yet.”
Kassel picked up the plate he had set aside earlier while provoking the incident with Sildire.
“This is the best thing I’ve eaten today. It’s already my second piece, even after a big lunch. I’d like to meet the chef.”
Kassel popped the last of the cake into his mouth.
“That’s good to hear. I made that cake, and the knights usually don’t give much feedback on food.”
“You made this, Selina? Then I owe you my thanks. It’s the best cheesecake I’ve ever had.”
Selina smiled softly and took the empty plate, placing it on the tray.
“What do you think of the Wolves?”
Her voice was softer than when she was speaking in front of the conference room or giving out tasks.
“Regardless of who I am, anyone would feel the same being around such extraordinary knights. It’s intimidating, but also exhilarating. Honestly, it’s a bit of a mix of feelings.”
“What about you, Jaymer?” Selina suddenly asked.
Jaymer, as if coming from another world, slowly replied,
“Each one of them is a talent that could take years to find. I like the fact that I don’t have to search to find worthy opponents. That means I’ll be the one knocking them down, not getting knocked down.”
Selina grinned subtly and then spoke quietly to Franz, who had appeared beside them unnoticed.
“What do you think about that statement, Knight Franz?”
Franz stood upright, two upside-down glasses in his left hand and a bottle of wine in his right. Jaymer stepped aside as if he knew Franz was there, but Kassel was surprised by his sudden presence.
“Where have I seen this maid before? What’s your name?”
Franz was not particularly tall, but he was well-proportioned with long limbs, not appearing small even next to Jaymer. He was a handsome man with deep blue eyes and blond hair.
“Don’t you recognize me, Franz? I’m disappointed.”
“How could I remember the names of a hundred maids? Sorry.”
“I remember the names of fifty Wolves.”
Franz looked embarrassed, and Selina laughed heartily. Meanwhile, Kassel recalled the details about Franz from his memory.
‘His basic stance is impeccable, but he lacks a confident finishing move. His pattern is predictable, easy to block once known. He stubbornly sticks to this pattern, probably planning to continue until he defeats one of the White Wolves. But no one will seriously fight him until he changes that pattern. Unless he breaks it, he won’t become a White Wolf.’
In front of the subject, speaking about it would have been quite disheartening, and given what had just happened with Sildire, Kassel had no intention of mentioning it. Besides, that was solely Sheyden’s perspective. Most likely, the attack patterns Franz employed were ‘unblockable attacks’ for knights of ordinary levels. And ultimately, defeating the White Wolves with that style was probably a matter of pride for Franz.
“Everyone seems to be looking forward to our match, Jaymer. You say there are plenty of monsters to be knocked down without even searching…? If you talk that way, we are indeed pleased. How’s your injury?”
Franz asked.
“It seems to be healing quickly, whether it’s due to the skill of the doctor or the quality of the medicine. Can a bone injury heal this fast?”
Jaymer demonstrated by swinging his previously injured shoulder around.
“Even fatal wounds don’t lead to death here. That injury will probably be fully healed within a week. I promise.”
Selina spoke, placing her hand on Franz’s shoulder.
“Now, Kassel, how about we make a bet? I’ve been watching Franz’s swordsmanship closely. He’s currently the best in the Wolf Knights. Franz and Jaymer are going to duel tomorrow. Whom will you bet on?”
Selina raised her voice slightly, drawing the attention of the Wolf Knights nearby. Hearing the murmurs, knights from around the hall started to gather.
‘It seems they are more drawn to this than to good food and drink.’
Selina was the first to suggest.
“I’ll bet on Franz. I believe he’s superior in skill and experience.”
“Isn’t it too advantageous for you, knowing all about Franz’s abilities?”
Kassel spoke without regard for the surrounding eyes. Selina, leaning slightly towards Franz, looked quite adorable. Her slightly raised tone and the moist pink lips that were shut tight looked cute. Just like before, her presence warmed his heart.
“I don’t know Jaymer’s abilities, but you do. So, isn’t it a fair bet?”
Selina said. Despite being the subjects of the bet, both seemed more amused than upset. Perhaps they both inwardly hoped the bet would take place.
‘Really want to try, Jaymer?’
Kassel sought Jaymer’s agreement with a look before speaking.
“Okay. But first, Jaymer must fight another Wolf Knight with all his might, and Franz must do the same with another Wolf. That’s my condition.”
Kassel pointed at the gathered Wolves with his thumb. It was a calculated move to stir their fighting spirit, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. Some even whistled. Kassel looked solely at Selina as he spoke.
“Of course, the outcomes of those two matches don’t matter. Each Wolf Knight is incredibly skilled, and winning or losing against any of them is a thin line. Jaymer could lose to anyone. But if he sees Franz’s attack even once, Jaymer will win. If that condition is met, I’ll bet on Jaymer.”
“See it once and figure it out? Aren’t you underestimating Franz Wolf too much? Didn’t I say experience and skill are different?”
“No, Jaymer himself said he adapts his fighting style to his opponent. I believe that Jaymer has not yet fully shown his abilities due to the lack of strong opponents around him, and his potential exceeds anyone here. Most importantly, Jaymer has never been formally trained in swordsmanship, so he has no bad habits and no set attack patterns. If Jaymer reads Franz’s attack pattern, then the moment Franz executes his best attack, the match will be over.”
This was merely a refined version of the casual talk about his swordsmanship that Jaymer had mentioned. Hence, Jaymer stood there nonchalantly, as if to say, ‘You’re stating the obvious.’ However, Franz’s expression turned grim.
‘Uh?’
Kassel noticed that other Wolf Knights who were previously amiable now stood with hardened expressions. The hall, previously filled with voices but no music, fell into silence.
Kassel was disconcerted but did not show it, only looking at Selina. She, too, seemed unfazed by the reactions around her and continued.
“Alright. The bet is on. But to make a bet, we need something to wager. What shall it be?”
“I don’t have anything to wager.”
“Neither do I, so let’s say the loser fulfills one wish of the winner.”
“That sounds fair.”
“Franz, you better not lose. I have about a hundred and fifty interesting wishes in mind for Kassel.”
Selina said it jokingly, but Franz didn’t take it as a joke.
“Wherever you heard about my pattern, try it. If you want, I’ll even tell you what attack I’ll use to take you down. If it’s an attack you can block, it wasn’t my specialty anyway.”
Franz’s voice growled, and Kassel momentarily stepped back, but Jaymer remained unfazed.
“No need to tell me.”
The stoic eyes of all the Wolves were now on Kassel.
‘I keep antagonizing the Wolves, first with Sildire and now this. Is this really okay for me?’
As Kassel fretted, a servant loudly announced in the hall.
“Master Irine is coming.”
The Wolves around Kassel turned towards the stairs leading to the second floor. Jaymer, following the mood, also turned his gaze.
“Hmm, this is going to be a boring time. The greetings alone will probably take half an hour. Let’s step outside for a bit.”
Selina suggested.
Kassel declined.
“I need to see Her Majesty the Queen after Master Irine. Maybe later.”
“Oh, do you have an appointment with Her Majesty?”
“No.”
“Then how do you know the Queen will be here?”
“Isn’t this a place to meet Her Majesty?”
“Who told you that?”
Kassel tried to recall, but it was vague.
“I don’t remember exactly…”
“Then you can spare a moment, can’t you? Or is a mere maid unworthy to talk with someone who might be a captain?”
Selina almost whispered the word ‘captain’.
Kassel looked surprised.
“Are you threatening me?”
“Did that sound like a threat? That’s a shame, I was going to give you a good hint. My advice didn’t work for you in your conversation with the Council earlier, so I suppose it won’t work for you in your conversation with the Queen either?”
Master Irine descended the stairs. She appeared no different from any other day, even in a party setting. Instead of a dress, she wore trousers, and her casual demeanor, hands in pockets, resembled a woman stepping out into the neighborhood. Yet her expression was gentle, and her demeanor towards the Council of Elders was relaxed.
The other Wolves also respectfully greeted their senior, and Irine responded with a nod to each.
“That’s not true. Thanks to your help, I think I gave good answers to the councilors.”
Kassel replied.
“Then I’ll also help you before your conversation with Her Majesty.”
Selina continued with a look that seemed almost like a temptation.
“If you really want to meet Her Majesty, don’t push yourself.”
“What do you mean by pushing myself?”
“Are you meeting all fifty Wolf Knights at once?”
Kassel involuntarily glanced around the hall. All the Wolf Knights were present at the party. Yet, the only person he had really spoken to was Sildire.
“Her Majesty the Queen is coming.”
A senior councilor announced.
“See, Her Majesty is coming.”
Kassel said, looking towards the staircase where the Queen had yet to appear. There was a significant delay, typical for the arrival of someone of high rank.
Meanwhile, the senior councilor’s speech continued.
“Today’s party was originally planned two weeks ago, but kept being postponed. Finally, Her Majesty decided it couldn’t be delayed any longer. All the Wolf Knights gathered here today…”
Kassel looked from the empty staircase back to Selina. She was already gracefully walking towards the kitchen with other maids, carrying a tray.
“Sel…”
Unable to interrupt the councilor’s speech, Kassel hesitated to call out loud.
‘I need to meet Her Majesty.’
Yet, even with that thought, Kassel followed Selina.
‘Right. I don’t need a formal setting to truly meet Her Majesty. The real meeting was yesterday. Just greeting her here would be meaningless.’
Kassel followed Selina, who handed the tray to another maid on her way to the balcony. He stepped out onto the balcony after her. The cool air stung his nose.
Selina leaned against the railing, smiling at Kassel. Tanya was there too.
“Who…?”
It seemed this was not the promised meeting. Tanya looked at Selina standing beside her and asked Kassel.
“Selina. She brought the drinks in the conference room earlier.”
Tanya then nodded in recognition.
“You’re serving Her Majesty, right, Selina?”
Kassel asked for confirmation.
“What if I’m not?”
Selina replied ambiguously and then questioned Tanya.
“Why aren’t you joining the party, Master Tanya?”
“I’d just ruin the mood if I went.”
“Nobody would be afraid of a sorceress.”
“A witch like me wouldn’t be welcomed there.”
Tanya sipped her frothy drink.
‘Witch?’
Kassel was perplexed. Tanya’s appearance under the moonlight, drinking her drink, was beautiful. Her hair and robe fluttering in the breeze created an enigmatic aura. Unlike the dazed presence beside the Queen yesterday, she now appeared in a cold, rational light.
Selina, too, looked more beautiful than she had inside the hall. Kassel found himself at a loss, unable to decide where to look with both women awaiting his words.
‘I didn’t come here to be overwhelmed by women’s beauty.’
Kassel had come to talk more with Selina. He also wanted a private conversation with Tanya. But now, with both women he wanted to speak with appearing together, he was at a loss for words.
Fortunately, Irine’s booming voice filtered through the slightly open balcony door, breaking the awkward silence.
“Everyone, pay attention. Eat if you want, drink if you want, but listen. Her Majesty the Queen will come later, so don’t get too excited and lose your focus.”
Laughter from the Wolves sporadically filled the air. Irine indeed had captured the juniors’ attention instantly.
“We will soon face a formidable enemy. I fundamentally trust in the strong defenses of the Gold Gate, but there might be an enemy outside it capable of breaching it. Therefore, I want your opinions. Since you don’t have a captain yet…”
During her speech, several knights glanced towards Jaymer. Jaymer, meanwhile, looked around for Kassel, who had suddenly disappeared. From the dark balcony, the inside was visible, but the balcony was not easily seen from the hall.
“…I believe all of you should discuss and decide on this matter.”
“What enemy are you speaking of?”
A knight asked, raising his hand.
“I don’t know exactly. But one thing is certain: the battle we might face could be larger than the one your seniors experienced 10 years ago.”
Most of the Wolf Knights, typically not inclined to gossip, remained silent despite the gravity of the news. Instead, their eyes hardened with determination.
“Therefore, it’s necessary for the Wolf Knights to take action. Will you go to the Gold Gate to face them, or wait here?”
“We will go.”
Several knights said almost simultaneously, and all agreed. No one objected. Irine surveyed the crowd and then asked,
“We don’t need to follow the majority. If anyone opposes, raise your hand and speak your reason.”
No further opinions were voiced.
Overhearing the conversation, Selina quietly asked Tanya,
“What do you think, Master Tanya?”
“It’s a decision for the Wolf Knights to make.”
“But the Wolf Knights seem to respect Lutia’s opinion.”
Reluctantly, Tanya responded,
“For a normal enemy, meeting them at the Gold Gate is right.”
Selina nodded in agreement.
“However, the enemy we will soon face is not like that. I believe it’s impractical for the knights alone to face them. It would be better to confront this enemy near the White Gate, closer to the holiness of Nadium and the blessings of the Sky Mountains.”
Selina scratched her head as she spoke.
“If it’s a magical opponent, the Wolf Knights have weapons made by the blacksmith Lergo. Of course, they won’t be as powerful as Lutia’s mages.”
Tanya’s necklace briefly glowed blue before fading. Her eyes heated up blue and then returned to normal.
“The only weapon in that room that can withstand my magic would be Master Irine’s Vena Esarck, right?”
Selina nodded in admiration.
Tanya continued,
“Most of the current Wolf Knights lack experience with real magic. Lergo’s smithing skills are well-known in Lutia, and he has provided weapons for magical use to Lutia several times. However, the weapons Lergo provided to the Wolf Knights are not the best for combating mages or magical beings. Realizing this after the fact will be too late. The Wolf Knights must rely on Nadium’s blessings for this fight.”
While Tanya spoke, Franz commented from inside the hall,
“We first need to be clear about who our enemy is to have an accurate discussion.”
“A resurrected being from death. And behind it, a dark entity exists.”
For the first time, murmurs filled the hall. Irine waved her hand in understanding.
“I know. You have been so isolated here, unaware of such beings. But remember, the Wolf Knights were founded for this very purpose. You’ll need to get used to it.”
“Then isn’t further discussion unnecessary? I’d like to stop this party right now and ride to the Gold Gate immediately. How many enemies are there? Just tell me how to fight those resurrected from death, Master.”
As Franz finished speaking, several knights stepped forward, offering to go. The conversation among the knights suddenly became lively with talk of swordplay, and Irine’s influence seemed to wane.
“I’ll ask for your opinions again in half an hour. I need to consult with Quain as well.”
Irine descended the stairs.
Kassel turned back inside the balcony. Selina was perilously perched on the second-floor railing. Occasionally, her skirt fluttered in the wind, revealing her legs up to the knee. Feeling awkward, Kassel stood close to the balcony railing, not wanting to stare directly at Selina’s legs.
The village below was beautifully lit up by lights along the streets.
“You’re quiet.”
Selina spoke to Kassel.
“It doesn’t feel real.”
“Being in Nadium?”
“Everything. I can’t believe there are over fifty Wolf Knights behind me, all with faces like the guy next door. If I tell people back home that I’ve met a Lutian mage, they’d call me a liar. And now, one of those mages is right beside me.”
Kassel glanced at Tanya’s expressionless face before turning back to Selina.
“And right now, instead of meeting the Queen, I ran out to the balcony to listen to the Queen’s maid.”
Selina let out a brief laugh.
“How did you meet the White Wolves, Kassel? How did you become a captain? Did you go through each step one by one? If meeting the White Wolves is step 100, did you start at step 1, then 2, 3, 4, 5? I don’t think so.”
Selina swung her legs idly as she leaned on the balcony.
“People are mistaken. If your goal is 100, you should challenge 100 right away. There’s no need to feel overwhelmed from the start. If you want to talk to the Queen, just go and meet her. You don’t need permission from Nadium’s soldiers or to plan to stand at a party like this. If you meet her this way, you’ll just be one of many guests in her eyes.”
Kassel looked down from the railing, pondering.
One step at a time. That’s what all adults preach. But Selina was suggesting the opposite.
“I always thought I had to learn swordplay first, then become a Wolf Knight, and then pass through the White Wolves to become a captain. But I was wrong. I will become a captain and also meet the Queen alone.”
At Kassel’s words, Selina smiled broadly.
“So, what will you do now?”
“I’ll talk to Tanya.”
Selina’s smile faltered slightly, not expecting this response. Tanya, who had been silently listening, set down her wine glass and looked surprised.
“Me?”
“Yes, Tanya. I’ve been wanting to talk to you since yesterday. I kept looking for the opportunity but kept missing it. First, I want to apologize. Tanya, you were a person too difficult for me. Something was amiss because of that. But the fact that you were a difficult person meant, as I just mentioned, that you were someone I really wanted to meet. May I take your time to talk about what I want? If time permits.”
Kassel asked, taking into account that Tanya might retort with ‘I have nothing I want to talk about.’
“It sounds like a confession from a child. But since you mentioned it like that, I will apologize too. You are the first person who has treated me so familiarly, so I too must have been a bit awkward. It wasn’t genuine, so please forgive my bluntness.”
Tanya replied.
Selina shrugged her shoulders and said,
“It seems I should step away from this setting.”
Kassel faintly smiled.
“How can that be? You’re another person I want to talk to, Selina.”
Then, Franz entered through the balcony door. He seemed to have come for some fresh air and was surprised to find people there. His face was more flushed than before, perhaps from having drunk a bit too much.
“Um, sorry if I’m interrupting.”
As Franz turned to leave, Selina stopped him.
“Franz. There’s an opposing opinion about what was discussed earlier.”
“What opinion?” Franz asked.
“The opinion about storming the Gold Gate.”
“Hmm, speak up. The opposing opinion. I will listen.”
Selina re-crossed her legs and continued,
“It’s not me, but Kassel who will speak.”
Kassel whispered in surprise,
“I didn’t say I had an opposing opinion, Selina.”
“Didn’t you? But it seemed like you would have one, didn’t it?”
Franz folded his arms and waited for the two to reach a conclusion. Strangely, Selina’s words left no room for rebuttal. Kassel cautiously began speaking to Franz.
“About the resurrected being discussed earlier. He won’t die even if killed, and like you, he does not fear death. He has a strong sense of mission and won’t tire.”
“Have you fought this being?”
Franz asked.
“No. But I was held captive by him and talked with him. I also saw Jaymer and Sheyden fight him. Neither of them clearly won or lost, so perhaps if all the Wolf Knights here went, they might not defeat him. Maybe if Franz and Jaymer joined forces, they could overpower him. I’ve experienced the incredible combat power of two White Wolves, and I don’t think Franz and Jaymer are inferior to them.”
Franz adjusted his stance. Suddenly, Master Irine entered the balcony and stood behind Franz. Kassel nodded to Irine and continued,
“The Wolf Knights are the most powerful and brave of any knights I’ve ever seen. But that’s only in comparison to humans. The courage used against humans doesn’t work against ghosts. If that being cannot penetrate the Gold Gate, then the Wolf Knights need not go. But if it does have the power to break through, then the Wolf Knights won’t be able to stop it.”
“So you’re saying we should just sit tight here?”
Franz shouted aggressively.
“Franz Wolf. Are you fighting to show off your bravery?”
“What are you saying?”
“Remember the mission of the Wolf Knights. Your duty is to protect the Queen and Nadium.”
Franz scowled. Behind him, Selina chuckled.
“Franz, you’ve already lost a round to Kassel before your fight with Jaymer tomorrow.”
Unable to be angry at Selina, Franz continued to glare solely at Kassel. Master Irine, who had been silently listening, intervened.
“This is just one opinion, Franz. It doesn’t become a decision just because one person says so.”
“I understand, Master Irine.”
“That’s enough then.”
Irine waved her hand dismissively at Franz before turning her gaze back to Kassel, Selina, and Tanya.
“And now…”
Irine, with a displeased expression, addressed Selina, who was uneasily swinging her legs while sitting on the railing.
“What are you doing here, Your Majesty?”
At that moment, not only Kassel was surprised. Tanya, as well as Franz, who had been around the royal court for years, widened their eyes in disbelief. The other Wolf Knights also had clearly not recognized her before.
‘That’s weird. Why couldn’t I recognize such an obvious face?’
Franz stepped back and bowed his head.
“Your… Your Majesty?”
If it wasn’t for the conversations with Selina, Kassel too would have immediately stepped away from the railing to show all the respect he could muster. Selina got off the railing and said,
“Irine, I had about twenty fun things planned to do with Kassel, Tanya, and Franz, but you just broke it all, you know?”
Selina pointed her finger at Irine, almost as if cursing her sincerely.
“I’m going to hold a grudge!”
“Yes, yes. In our time, you would act like a new knight entirely. Why don’t you just transform into a cat and roam around? At least the Wolf Knights won’t feel guilty then.”
Irine countered without backing down.
“Is there such magic in Lutia, Tanya?”
Selina asked.
“Her Majesty Sanadiel doesn’t need to use such magic, does she?”
Tanya replied in a voice tinged with hurt pride, probably due to not recognizing Selina’s true identity.
Selina untied her hair. Her long hair, as if carefully combed for hours, fell down to her waist, shimmering. And her brown hair gradually turned blonde from the ends. The moonlit blonde hair sparkled like gold.
“Then the person behind the curtain at the elders’ meeting was…?”
Kassel asked.
“That’s the real Selina. She’s similar in height and hair color to me, so sometimes we do that, and I wander around like this. Oh, right, Franz.”
Selina gently placed her hand on Franz’s shoulder, whispering softly into his ear.
“About the duel with Jaymer, is it still on? It’s a fun bet, so don’t push yourself too hard or do anything dangerous. Honestly, I’m curious about what wish Kassel will ask of me.”
As she lightly patted his shoulder, Franz, though slightly trembling, replied firmly.
“When a knight enters a duel, he forgets bets and commands. I will, as always, give it my best.”
“That’s what I thought. Thank you, Franz. I can hardly wait for tomorrow; I might not even be able to sleep tonight.”
Franz bowed politely and left.
“Now that Irine has spoiled the fun, let’s stop playing.”
Selina, no, Queen Sanadiel, alternately looked at Kassel and Tanya and suggested,
“How about the four of us have a serious talk in a quiet place later? The Queen of Aranthia, a Senior Wolf, Captain Wolf, and a Sorceress of Lutia.”
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
Kassel replied and quickly placed his hand on his chest, bowing deeply.
“And I apologize for my late greeting. ‘Nice’ to meet you for the ‘first’ time, Your Majesty.”
“Pleased to meet you, Kassel.”
Sanadiel smiled with a face full of mischief.
–TL Notes–
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