Magic Maker - How to make magic in another world - - Chapter 79

Magic Maker – How to make magic in another world –

Chapter 79   Audience

The path to the castle is intricate.

The reason is to prevent enemies from approaching the castle as much as possible in case of an attack.

Moreover, the progress was slow due to the crowded conditions.

As a result, it took nearly an hour to reach the castle.

“So, this is Sanostria Castle…”

Looking out of the window, I could see the fortress.

The drawbridge was down, and even from here, I could see it guarded by dozens of soldiers.

The castle walls were considerably high, and even with the use of boosts and magic jumps, reaching them might be difficult.

It was sturdier than I had anticipated.

The scale was substantial, and there was no doubt that the wooden castle gate had considerable thickness.

From the outside, only a portion of the castle towers was visible, and the full panorama remained unclear.

Since it was my first time seeing a castle, I couldn’t tell if this was common in this world.

But, in some way, it was overwhelming.

The carriage came to a stop.

I could hear conversations up ahead.

It seemed like Captain Goht was explaining the situation to the gatekeepers, probably showing them a letter similar to before.

However, it was taking more time than I had anticipated.

The carriage had already stopped, and a considerable amount of time had passed.

“Did something happen?”

“Who knows. While the invitation has been extended, I didn’t expect them to arrive today at this exact moment. Perhaps the preparations weren’t in order… these things often happen. Especially with noble guests.”

It was a sarcastic tone, but I chose not to comment.

Nobles must have their own concerns and thoughts.

Having lived a life different from typical nobility, I couldn’t fully understand Rafi’s feelings.

But it was taking a long time.

While I could continue waiting, I wanted to see a bit more of the city at least.

It’s frustrating to see only a small part through the window.

Just a little bit would be fine.

With that in mind, I suddenly opened the carriage door.

The first thing that caught my eye was a crowd of people.

Countless houses.

The sweet scent, the comings and goings of carriages.

The hustle and bustle of people. The clamor.

The energy surpassed Istria, and I was overwhelmed by the vibrancy.

The climate in the Lystia Kingdom tended to be on the cooler side.

However, there was warmth in this place, causing sweat to form in an instant.

This was more a result of the vitality of the people than the temperature.

I couldn’t help but feel the urge to get off the carriage and explore the city.

But that wish was not to be granted.

“Shion-sama! It seems the carriage cannot enter. I apologize, but please disembark here and proceed on foot to the castle.”

Captain Goht, who had been talking to the gatekeeper, rushed over to the carriage. Perhaps, even with Istria soldiers numbering in the hundreds, gaining entry to the castle wasn’t as simple as it seemed. It was a bit dissatisfying, but there was nothing to be done about it.

“Understood.”

“Then let’s go. I and a few others will accompany you into the castle.”

“Just a few people?”

“I apologize. It seems other soldiers are not allowed into the castle. They will remain nearby until everything is settled.”

It might be challenging for everyone to enter, but a few seemed a bit insufficient. There should be barracks inside the castle.

“The treatment of Istria soldiers seems quite strict.”

“Yes, I agree. However, considering the current circumstances, it’s not surprising. After all, officials, high-ranking individuals, and nobles from various countries are visiting Sanostoria. We will have temporary residence in the capital after some form of identification…”

The chosen ones, huh? Those who came for the ‘Lazy syndrome treatment training’ from each country. Along with that, there would likely be discussions about attacks from the demon tribe. It seemed individuals of considerable status from each country were making visits. How should this be perceived?

There are five countries on this continent. The small nation where we live, Lystia. The country of medicine and technology, Mediph. The Empire of Knights, Rockend. The Iron Nation, Pulza. And the largest military state on the continent, the Grand Empire of Adon. Additionally, there seems to be a country with a unique culture called Tou far to the east, across the sea. Among all these countries, Lystia seems to be the smallest in terms of national power, population, and territory.

The reason for the kings not gathering is unclear, but perhaps it’s because they don’t see the situation as that serious. The official start of the international Lazy syndrome treatment training is about twenty days away, but not everyone entering the capital on that exact day. Some foreigners may have already begun to be accommodated. Anyway, due to such reasons, the soldiers might be on edge. It’s understandable that the alert level is higher than usual.

Even if they are soldiers from one’s own country, they might be assassins plotting to kill foreign dignitaries while posing as soldiers. If a foreign dignitary is killed within Lystia, Queen Milhya will be held responsible.

The reason for gathering many soldiers from within the country into the capital is not entirely unclear. Some Istria soldiers are also dispatched to the capital for that mission, and those who escorted me are part of that group.

Queen Milhya, huh? What kind of person could she be?

“Anyway, shall we enter? We don’t have much time.”

“Yes. Please follow me.”

Led by Captain Goht, we headed towards the castle gate with a few soldiers. Passing through the long drawbridge, as we approached the imposing gate, the path opened with a deep sound and the clinking of chains.

The castle gate gradually lifted. We steeled ourselves, followed the guidance of the gatekeepers, and set foot inside the castle.

○●○

I was guided to a room within the castle and left alone for about ten minutes. This time, led by several maids, I headed towards the audience chamber alone. I bid farewell to Rafi, who wore a worried expression, and walked alone through the red carpet until I stood in front of the enormous door.

It was undoubtedly the audience chamber. If I were to describe the impression of Sanostria Castle in one word, it would be “corridor.” There were long corridors with doors on the sides. That was all the explanation needed. Of course, there were undoubtedly luxurious furniture and various items scattered throughout.

“Queen Milhya is waiting here.”

The maids stepped aside by the door, bowing their heads. It seemed that I was supposed to enter alone. I felt nervous—extremely nervous. My body was shaking slightly from the tension. However, being hesitant wouldn’t help. I couldn’t keep the Queen waiting.

I stood before the door, took a deep breath, and glanced at the soldiers who were stationed by the door. The soldiers then opened the door to the audience chamber. The sight expanded before me. The most splendid carpet in the castle stretched out in front of me.

The gazes of the soldiers lined up on both sides were focused on me. In the center was a throne. Instead of looking directly at the person sitting on the throne, I lowered my gaze slightly and moved forward slowly.

I had learned the etiquette for an audience from my father, which was helpful, but this was a real-life situation. In the midst of intense nervousness, I desperately recited the sequence of etiquette in my head.

Walk slowly, keep the gaze slightly lowered. Do not look at the Queen until given permission. Approach within about ten steps of the Queen, then kneel on one knee. Keep the gaze lowered and wait for the Queen to speak.

Silence, no sound. The tension in the air was so palpable that I began to wonder if I had made a mistake in the etiquette. However, unable to say anything, I remained silent, waiting for something to happen.

Top of Form

“Are you Shion Ornstein?”

A clear voice echoed from above.

Younger than I expected.

But I’ve heard that her age is older than my father’s.

In terms of mental age, she might be younger than me, but the dignity conveyed by that voice didn’t feel like it belonged to someone younger. I half-reflexively responded.

“Yes, I am Shion Ornstein.”

“Well done on coming to the capital. First, lift your head.”

As instructed, I raised my gaze.

Directly in front, at a slightly distant position, there was a small staircase with about ten steps.

On top of that was the throne, and sitting there was a woman looking down at me.

Queen Laxua L. Milhya.

At first glance, I was captivated.

She was overwhelmingly beautiful.

Silver threads falling over her shoulders reflected light, sparkling.

A faint cherry blossom color on her pure white skin.

Her meticulously crafted form would catch anyone’s eye.

However, the time one could gaze straight at her was brief.

Most people would focus on her appearance, but I was different.

Because “the queen was clad in magic.”

Even those who hadn’t contracted the Lazy syndrome occasionally possessed magic.

Rose was one, and a few others.

I realized I was unintentionally staring, hastily lowering my gaze.

“I am Laxua L. Milhya.

I have heard about your efforts in treating the lazy syndrome and repelling the demonic forces. It was an impressive and swift performance.”

“Your words are too kind. However, it was a series of coincidences, and many people contributed to the effort. It’s not solely my achievement.”

“Humble. I already know what you have accomplished.

Excessive humility can become unpleasant. Accept it gracefully.

For the recent incident, you shall receive a reward. We have already prepared it here. Please accept it.”

The queen turned to the robust man standing next to her and nodded slightly.

He seemed to hold a position akin to a minister.

While his head had somewhat thinning hair, his dignified beard seemed to express his confidence.

Despite appearing as a chubby middle-aged man, his gaze was sharp.

A reward, huh?

I had heard about it beforehand, but I didn’t know what it would be.

Money, perhaps. Or some kind of item.

If it was an item, it might be a bit troublesome.

I’d have to be careful about where to store the gift from the queen.

Internally, with a sense of excitement, I waited for the queen’s next words.

The man, presumably a minister, took a parchment from his pocket, unfolded it, and let his gaze move across the document.

“In recognition of Shion Ornstein’s significant achievements in developing the treatment methods for lazy syndrome, administering care, responding to demonic assaults, and successfully repelling the demon incursion in the city of Istria, within the Kingdom of Lystia, it has been decided to bestow upon Shion Ornstein the following honors: the presentation of a residence located within the royal capital of Sanostria and the conferment of the title of ‘Dual Marquis.’

There shall be no dissenting opinions. This proclamation reflects the will of her Majesty, Queen Laxua of Lystia.”

The atmosphere in the room became slightly unsettled. Apart from the soldiers, there were also dignified-looking individuals present in the audience chamber. Were they civil officials?

Most of them seemed perturbed, and it hinted that this decision might have been made unilaterally by the queen. Up until now, it had been kept confidential. If that were the case, why was it kept a secret? Why would such a decision be made?

More importantly, what did they mean by a residence and marquisates? This was absurd. There was no way that the son of a minor noble would suddenly be given Dual marquisates. A marquisate was a high-ranking title, just below a duke, and it was named ‘Dual marquisate’ because the title ‘marquis’ sounded similar to ‘duke,’ making it less confusing.

Being granted the title of Dual marquis was an elevated status. The hierarchy went from baron, viscount, earl, Dual marquis, duke, and grand duke, with Dual marquis being an outstanding position among the nobility.

For a rural noble, especially the son of an honorary noble, to receive such a title was unthinkable. It deviated significantly from what could be considered a reputable lineage built in one generation. It was evident that this was an exception.

Almost everyone, except the queen and the man who seemed like a minister, appeared bewildered, and I shared the sentiment.

“Silence! You are in the presence of the queen!”

The minister’s roar immediately hushed everyone. Who was this person? He was frightening.

Internally shrinking, I chose to remain silent. Regardless, it seemed that this decision was final, and voicing any objections would likely be counterproductive.

“Shion Ornstein, these are the words of the Queen. Naturally, you will accept, won’t you?”

The minister uttered these words while glaring at me, his voice filled with an imposing presence. It was an unexpected turn of events. Frankly, my heart was struggling to keep up, but I understood that refusing was not an option. There was no time to ponder why the Queen had chosen such rewards.

I hesitated for a moment but nodded, saying, “I humbly accept.”

I glanced at the expressions of the Queen and the minister. I sensed a slight relief in their demeanor.

“Now, Shion Ornstein, you shall become a Dual Marquis. However, although you gain the title, no territorial domain shall be granted. You will receive only the title, a residence, and attendants. Additionally, you shall not have the right to participate in social events, regional conferences, nor shall you be granted the right to speak.”

Once again, a murmur spread through the room. It seemed that I would occupy a position similar to my father. Although officially titled a Dual Marquis, it appeared to be more akin to an honorary noble. It wasn’t explicitly stated, but the expressions of the surrounding officials seemed to ease slightly.

Perhaps they feared that the arrival of a newcomer like me might disrupt the power dynamics among the nobility. I had no intention or interest in such matters, but for the time being, it seemed that I wouldn’t be burdened with a troublesome position.

It was essential not to be overly optimistic, though.

“The rewards are as mentioned. Now, let’s discuss the tasks I will assign you in the future. First, attend to the treatment of lazy syndrome patients within the royal capital. You can get more details from the attendants. Understand?”

“Yes. I will address it promptly.”

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that I came here for precisely that purpose. I had already considered treating the patients within the royal capital as a priority. The Queen nodded approvingly at my response.

“Now, Lord Ornstein, come closer.”

Though puzzled, I promptly followed the instruction. If there was something to discuss, it would be appropriate to do so here. What could it be? With such thoughts, I took a few steps forward. No one stopped me. It seemed somewhat erratic. A few more steps. Within five steps. Closer. The distance was different from what my father had mentioned. It was a distance allowed only if a significant level of trust had been established. Even at this proximity, the Queen’s voice couldn’t be heard. Another step. Still unheard. Another step.

“That’s far enough.”

A voice was heard nearby. My gaze, directed toward the ground as I kneeled on the landing of the stairs, caught sight of the Queen’s feet a short distance away. She was about three steps away. If I were an assassin, this distance would be enough to kill her in an instant. Yet, the Queen permitted me to be at this proximity. It wasn’t as if she trusted me. After all, today was the first time we met… or was it?

“It’s impressive how you’ve grown.”

Startled by her words, I instinctively looked up. The Queen had a soft smile on her face as she gazed directly at me. Her eyes reflected a hint of maternal warmth. I found myself captivated by her presence, momentarily losing my ability to speak.

Ah, yes. I had been entrusted to the Queen once before. After that, my father and mother decided to raise me as their own child. She knew about my past. As I listened to the voices near the Queen, the expression she had just worn vanished, replaced by a stern demeanor.

“Shion, refrain from using magic for a while.”

The Queen, who spoke with a voice audible only to me, swiftly transformed from a friendly woman into the dignified and resolute figure of a queen.

“Don’t use magic?” What on earth could that mean? It didn’t seem related to the magical requirements for treating the lazy syndrome. Was it about other types of magic? I questioned the Queen with my gaze, but she seemed unwilling to provide an answer. For now, I would comply since there didn’t appear to be significant disadvantages, but I couldn’t help wondering about her intentions.

“You may step back.”

Upon hearing her words, I bowed deeply and slowly stood up. As the realization that it was over set in, I moved my feet in a hurry. Exiting the audience chamber, a wave of exhaustion washed over me. I released a deep sigh as the doors closed.

It’s over. I was so nervous. I really hope that’s the end of formalities. I’m not good with these formal situations. The sense of relief gave way to a feeling of fatigue.

“Now, this way.”

Guided by the waiting maids, it seemed we were heading back to the room. I wanted to talk to Rafi and relax as soon as possible. Such thoughts surfaced strongly on my face, and I had forgotten the Queen’s words. I hadn’t accurately grasped what she was giving or bestowing upon me. Unaware of that, I followed the maids, savoring the sense of liberation.