Chapter 80 - The Knight of the Third Order
"I am Rachel Marcel."
Though I didn't quite grasp the situation, I introduced myself, and the woman before me deepened her smile. "How long do you intend to hold her hand?"
"Oh, I didn't notice. My apologies."
"It’s quite alright..."
His Highness, who had reached my side, placed one hand on my waist and used the other to firmly peel the female knight’s hand away. She didn't seem bothered by his glare, instead giving me a wink with that same sultry smile. "Stop that."
"You’re so impatient, Your Highness. My, she’s just as the rumors said. I’m impressed."
"...Sigh. This is exactly why I didn't want to introduce you to Rachel."
His Highness and the knight seemed strangely familiar with each other. And she didn't exude much of a feminine aura, likely due to her profession. Her tall, slender frame and sharp eyes contributed to that impression. Then I remembered something. A long time ago, Abbott-san had mentioned her. 'I met Lady Leonie Milicier recently. It was like meeting a prince from a novel. My fiancé says she always dresses in men’s clothing, even at evening parties, and she’s incredibly popular with the ladies.' Looking at her again, with her androgynous features, calm voice, and mysterious atmosphere, she certainly had a certain brilliance.
As I was thinking this, His Highness introduced her with a scowl. "This is Milicier of the Third Order of Knights. She’s the second daughter of Count Milicier."
"Please, call me Leonie, Lady Rachel."
"It’s Milicier!"
In contrast to His Highness’s blatant reluctance, the female knight was smiling cheerfully. I was surprised by how easily she brushed off his cold glares. And to think she was from the House of Count Milicier. The Milicier family was known for producing many excellent warriors; I had heard that all the children were knights, except for the eldest daughter who had already married. So she was the famous... The family had existed since the founding of the kingdom and held the deep trust of the royal family. "Um... Milicier-sama."
"Lady Rachel, with such a dignified and beautiful voice, I would truly prefer it if you called me by my name."
"Listen, Rachel. You can ignore everything she says. Her skill is among the top few in the Third Order of Knights, but... she has a habit of flirting with every woman she meets."
She was much more friendly than I had imagined. And she was the one expected to be the next Vice Commander of the Third Order. Wait, come to think of it... "Speaking of the House of Count Milicier, aren't they related to the House of Marquis Camus?"
"Ah, you’re well-informed. Yes, we are relatives. I am Theodore’s cousin."
...Ah. The sense of déjà vu I felt was because of Theodore-sama. It was strange how she felt so close despite it being our first meeting, yet it wasn't unpleasant. And she seemed like quite a character. Knowing she was Theodore-sama’s relative made it all make sense.
"I’ve heard rumors about you from Theodore as well. I even volunteered to be your escort in the Marcel Territory... but for some reason, I wasn't chosen."
"There’s no need to intentionally increase the danger."
"I’m more skilled than Roger, and more importantly, I think a woman would be better for another woman."
"I didn't choose you because you’re more troublesome than Roger, despite being a woman."
Roger, suddenly brought into the conversation, looked awkward. "No, I..."
"It’s only natural to praise a beautiful woman, isn't it? It’s only natural to want to get closer to one."
"You’re twenty-five already; settle down."
"Haha, I have no one to marry. I won't settle for anyone who isn't overwhelmingly stronger than me."
One of the top few in the Third Order... I wondered how many single men were overwhelmingly stronger than her. I started to imagine it, but decided it was better not to, and simply watched their exchange with a vague smile. Leonie-sama turned her gaze from His Highness to me. "In that case, isn't it more fun to play with beautiful women like Lady Rachel?" Her sultry, sidelong glance was enough to make any young lady swoon. Even I felt my heart flutter for a moment. But immediately, His Highness’s arm around my waist tightened, and his other hand gently cupped my chin. He tilted my face toward him. His blue eyes captured me, refusing to let go. "Rachel, I don't appreciate you being moved by others."
"I wasn't..."
"Good." His eyes softened into something sweet.
Leonie-sama watched us with wide eyes. "Haha, Your Highness actually looks his age. My, how youthful." She laughed merrily. "Well, fine. There’s no point in continuing this and wasting time. I’ve introduced the two of you, so that’s that. Now, you two, move to the next room."
"Your Highness, that’s far too abrupt. Lady Rachel is confused."
"Me? ...Am I?"
At Leonie-sama’s words, His Highness let out a deep sigh and looked at me. I wondered why it was necessary for us to meet today. His Highness shook his head a few times as if to say it couldn't be helped. "Regarding your escort to the Bousquet Territory, I’m planning to assign Roger and Leonie from the Third Order."
"From the Third Order? But... will that be alright?" The Third Order was under the Crown Prince’s jurisdiction, but assigning them to me might not sit well with His Majesty if he found out. His Highness gave me a gentle smile, likely seeing my concern. "It’s fine. Leonie is from the Micilier Territory, which is next to the Bousquet Territory. We can make up any number of excuses."
"That’s right, please don't worry. I’m familiar with the region, so I’m the best person for the job, if I do say so myself."
I felt bad about involving His Highness and the knights in my personal goals. But I knew he wouldn't back down. And more than anything, I didn't want to stop, despite his concern. To make this a safe and successful journey, I would accept his kindness. "I see. Then, Leonie-sama, Roger, I look forward to working with you."
"Of course."
"Yes. I won't let you face any danger this time." Roger dropped to one knee with a serious, determined expression. I was the one who had caused trouble in the Marcel Territory, yet Roger had clearly been training hard over the past six months. The change was evident in both his expression and his physique.
"Well then, since His Highness can't seem to wait, shall we head to the next room?" Leonie-sama called out to Roger and they headed for the door. They bowed to us and entered the adjacent room, leaving the door slightly ajar. After they left, I started to turn back to suggest we sit down and talk. But then...
"Rachel, finally, we’re alone." His Highness’s sweet, gentle voice reached my ears. I looked up at his face, and he was gazing at me with pure adoration. That look alone was enough to make me feel intoxicated, but his arm around my waist held me securely. "I always find myself wanting to see you. Even though we just met recently, it feels like years have passed."
"I... I wanted to see you too, Your Highness." I couldn't find the words as easily as he did. My cheeks flushed and my heart pounded. I wanted to express my feelings more, but embarrassment made me look down. Yet, he seemed to see right through me. I stole a glance up at him, and he was smiling broadly, his own cheeks slightly tinged with red. I’m still not used to expressing my love, but... Your Highness, just seeing your smile makes me so happy.
Thank you for reading. Thank you for the bookmarks. Your comments and ratings are a great encouragement. Typo reports are very, very helpful. Also, I have an announcement: [The series will be published as a book]. This is all thanks to everyone who has supported me. I am truly filled with gratitude. I’ll post the details in an activity report, so I hope you’ll read it. I’ll continue to do my best to keep the story enjoyable, so thank you for your continued support!