NOVEL WEB Chapter 105 - Chapter 105: The Polite Justin
Chapter 105: The Polite Justin
After the morning meeting ended, I left the royal castle with Constant since we were heading in the same direction, engaging in casual conversation or rather, exchanging information. Inside the castle, there are always eavesdroppers who add their own twists to the rumors, making it difficult to speak freely.
“Congratulations on your appointment as Knight Commander. Let’s work hard together from now on.”
“Stop it, why is it always assumed we’re going to struggle?”
“I know it was tough when you were the vice-commander, but as a commander, the decisions you have to make will only increase. Plus, you’ll have the added responsibility for your subordinates’ mistakes.”
“Well, I already felt that weight when I was acting commander. Having the authority means the responsibility is even heavier. I genuinely think it’s amazing how you’ve managed to endure this pressure for the past two years, Justin.”
“You can worship me even more if you’d like.”
With a sly grin, Constant snorted a laugh.
“You’ve really got quite the personality. Where does all that confidence come from? It’s not like I lack self-confidence, but I can’t imagine having as much as you do, Justin.”
“Well… even if the strategy I choose isn’t the best, I just have to make everyone believe it was. In other words, even if I’m wrong, as long as I can produce results that show I wasn’t, it’s fine. As long as I avoid the worst-case scenario of losing subordinates, that’s the minimum goal.”
“What is that? It sounds almost like you’re just being shameless.”
“Exactly, that’s the idea.”
“Haha… indeed, ensuring the safety of our subordinates is the most important thing. Thanks to you, I feel more relaxed. By the way, we passed the Third Knight Order, are you heading to the Great Temple now?”
As Constant said, I passed by the Third Knight Order and started descending a gentle slope. Passing by the workshops of craftsmen, I could hear the sounds of woodworking, likely making furniture for the barracks.
“Yeah, it’s better to get the troublesome things done early. Besides, the envoy from the Holy Kingdom is supposed to arrive tomorrow, so I need to meet her today.”
“Ahem… shall I accompany you?”
Without meeting my eyes, Constant offered.
“You… wouldn’t it look suspicious if two knight commanders suddenly visit? Are you planning to flirt with the saint? Stop it, you’ll just get dragged around by her.”
“Wha… I admit she’s cute, but what do you mean I’ll get dragged around? I do have some experience…”
“Yeah, I don’t want to hear about your experiences with women. What I mean is that the saint’s position is different, and she doesn’t fit the usual noble ladies we interact with. She’s also not like the commoners in the capital. She just started living here after coming from a village deep in the mountains.”
Constant, being a knight noble, wouldn’t have an issue marrying a commoner, but depending on the situation, his wife might need to have some level of education. The saint probably has limited literacy skills.
“I’m not saying I want something to happen with the saint! Don’t misunderstand me!”
“Got it, got it. Well, I’m going now. See you later.”
Hmm, I wonder why he doesn’t want to meet my eyes. I wanted to tease him about it, but I need to hurry before it overlaps with lunchtime. Turning the corner on the road opposite the workshop, I took a shortcut to the Great Temple, parting ways with Constant there.
When I arrived at the Great Temple, which normally would have its gates open for worshippers, I found all but a small service entrance closed. Seeing a Holy Knight guarding the gate, it was likely due to the envoy from the Holy Kingdom. I called out to a Holy Knight I recognized from the expedition to find Jeanne.
“Thank you for your hard work. I don’t have an appointment, but is the saint here? It would be great if Commander Axel could join as well.”
“Ah, Commander Vandière. The saint is currently having a tea party in the courtyard with someone from the Holy Kingdom. Commander Axel should be there too. It’s an unofficial event, so there shouldn’t be any issue if you meet them.”
“I see, thank you. If they’re busy, I’ll leave soon. I came to discuss the escort for the trip to the Holy Kingdom.”
“We’ll take care of your horse, so please go ahead.”
It seemed like he was a reasonable guy, and the moment I mentioned escorting to the Holy Kingdom, he had a startled expression.
I entrusted my beloved horse Eleanor to the holy knight and headed towards the courtyard of the grand temple. If you make a large donation, they might serve you tea in the reception room or courtyard, so it’s a place most nobles who donate have visited.
“The High Priest couldn’t come due to his advanced age, but he was really looking forward to meeting the Saintess.”
“Ah… I see.”
As I stepped into the courtyard, I heard the voices of a young man and a confused Saintess. Walking briskly across the lawn, I saw a good-looking man dressed as a priest and the Saintess having a tea party. Although Commander Axel and the holy knights were standing nearby, only the two of them were seated.
“Eleanor, I came by to see you. I hope I’m not intruding?”
“Commander Justin! Wow, you came to see me!? I’m so happy!”
When I deliberately called out her name to highlight our friendship, the Saintess stood up with a relieved smile, as if she had been saved. Axel also seemed somewhat relieved.
“Saintess, who is this…?”
Unlike the two of them the priestly man was clearly displeased.
“This is Commander Justin of the Royal Third Knight Order, my friend! Commander Justin, this is the messenger from the Holy Kingdom.”
“My name is Justin de Vandière and I welcome the messenger of the Holy Kingdom. I came today to see my friend, Saintess Eleanor, but I’m sorry to interrupt your conversation. However, since it seems you’ve finished your tea, it might be best to head inside before you get cold.”
When I said that with a smile, both the Saintess and the holy knights stood there with their mouths open, stunned. Of course, even I can at least be polite to someone treated as a state guest.