Chapter 111 - Episode 27: "I'm Entering!"
Good day! It is I, Violia Nico Fortesia!
I am currently watching the Pin-Hane Girl ascend the execution platform.
As the charges against the Pin-Hane Girl are read aloud, the crowd's expectations continue to soar. Public executions really are a spectacle, aren't they? It seems many in the Royal Capital knew the Pin-Hane Girl, making the excitement particularly intense. Well, she had been receiving special treatment despite having accomplished nothing of note, so she must have earned resentment and envy from all quarters. It is a fitting conclusion.
For the commoners, seeing someone they personally know—someone who held a slightly higher position than them, someone they dislike—publicly executed is nothing but delightful entertainment. Yes. Humans don't feel much emotion when someone far above them dies, but they absolutely love seeing someone who was just a bit luckier and had a slightly better life than them dragged down.
"I'm innocent! I have nothing to do with Violia Nico Fortesia! You mustn't kill a truly innocent person, right!? Please don't kill meeee!"
...The Pin-Hane Girl is shouting something on the platform, but... well, it is nothing of consequence. By now, no one is lending her an ear. It is quite different from my own time.
Just in case, I had taken various measures so that no matter what the Pin-Hane Girl said, it wouldn't cause trouble.
First, regarding the Holy Knights.
Since my setting yesterday was that I 'knocked out some random Holy Knight and stole their armor,' there is no way I would be among the Holy Knights today. I've come here today in a different disguise, and the person inside the Holy Knight armor accompanying Carol is one of Carol's classmates... well, one of her students. By the way, Doran's physique is clearly not mine even from outside the armor, so he continues his role as is.
Next, regarding the information Carol knew.
I had already made sure that even if the Pin-Hane Girl accused the Saint of knowing such things, it wouldn't be a problem. After all, what Carol knew was merely a 'rumor.'
Among the sailors in Elsemarin, there are those who serve on merchant ships trading with other countries. Therefore, if one is at the Cathedral in Elsemarin, information from other nations naturally flows in. It wouldn't be strange for Carol to know various suspicious pieces of information. Especially since it is a fact that I was in Windry for a period of time.
Furthermore, if a weapons merchant or someone similar spread a rumor like 'There seems to have been a large transaction near Asumbra recently,' it is entirely possible to infer a war from that.
In any case, there are no witnesses to the conversation between Carol and the Pin-Hane Girl, so it comes down to a battle of credibility between the two... and naturally, Carol wins.
Or rather, the King must let Carol win.
Regardless of what Carol is thinking, the only way for the King to maintain this country is to cooperate with the Cathedral and avoid upsetting the populace. Yes. Even if the King suspects Carol, he can no longer punish her.
...Therefore, the King, who is the only one in a position to judge Carol, will never doubt her. Or rather, he cannot!
Furthermore, he absolutely cannot kill Carol. If he were to engage in a credibility contest before the people, Carol would win over the King. Ohohoho.
I'm sure the King has his own thoughts on the matter. But he will prioritize cozying up to the Cathedral... When weighing the life of one Pin-Hane Girl against the trust of the Cathedral, it is obvious which is heavier.
And the commoners are ignoring whatever the Pin-Hane Girl screams now, as if it's none of their business. After all, her charges include the crime of 'spreading false information and throwing the country into chaos.' It is only natural that a liar is not trusted. Ohohoho.
At the King's seat set up beside the execution platform, the King nods solemnly and seems to be giving some instructions to a soldier. It is likely the signal to begin the execution.
"I'm innocent! I'm really innocent! I don't know Violia or Fortesia! We aren't comrades! Why won't you believe meeee!"
While the crowd focuses on the Pin-Hane Girl and the King, an executioner finally stands beside her.
Then, the decapitation sword is raised...
"I didn't do anything wrong!"
By the time the sword swung down, the Pin-Hane Girl was no longer of this world.
It was an abrupt farewell, but well, that is how it goes. I don't feel particularly happy about it now, but... well, I do feel a bit refreshed. It's not bad to not burn things once in a while.
Immediately after the execution, there was a speech from the Saint.
...It began with a mourning for the Pin-Hane Girl, followed by the dragon attack incident that occurred in the Kingdom of Asumbra.
Since slimes are appearing in large numbers in this country as well, it is easy to incite anxiety by suggesting that dragons might also appear in large numbers.
After solemnly stoking their fears, she proceeded to announce several support measures from the Cathedral.
Soup kitchens for the poor. Job placement for those without employment. Plans to create yet another new settlement. And a proposal to invite adventurers from Elsemarin to the existing settlements to ensure a certain level of military force is always present in the towns.
...These were greatly welcomed by the people.
It is naturally wonderful for the poor, the middle class is happy to see more towns between cities, and adventurers are pleased to have more employers.
As for the nobles who might seem unrelated, it is enough for Carol to personally read out their names and thank them on the spot as a reward for the donations they have devotedly contributed since her election.
...Yes. From now on, the Cathedral will be a place that brings true salvation, not just prayers.
The changes brought about by Carol are being widely accepted by the people. With this, the Cathedral's position is rock solid!
Yes, right now, the Cathedral is undoubtedly shining brighter than the Royal Castle! Carol is the number one in this country!
...And throughout Carol's speech, I could see the King talking to his ministers with a sour expression.
The commoners might not have noticed because their eyes were only on Carol... but I certainly confirmed it!
I wonder if something happened? While it's normal for the King to have a sour face, for it to happen right here, right now...
After Carol's speech ended and the crowd cheered, the King finally stood up.
Before the commoners, who finally began to buzz with curiosity, the King ascended the podium... and then, he made an announcement.
"I believe the beloved citizens of my Kingdom of Orchesta are already aware,"
After that preamble... a soldier beside the King unfurled a large, prepared poster to show everyone.
"We have decided to hold a Martial Arts Tournament in May. There are no eligibility requirements. Anyone confident in their skills may participate freely. The winner shall be granted the right to have one wish fulfilled."
Ah...
Come to think of it, there was something like that...
I had completely forgotten, but now I remember. The King had planned to hold a Martial Arts Tournament to gather military strength in preparation for war with the Kingdom of Asumbra...
Of course, now that the war with the Kingdom of Asumbra has been completely cancelled, the Martial Arts Tournament has no meaning. However, he couldn't take back something he had already announced, so the King was forced to reluctantly announce the tournament! Yes!
It would be a disaster if the citizens found out he was trying to start a war. It would be strange if he hesitated to hold the tournament now. So, thinking about the King's feelings as he was forced to make this reluctant announcement makes me feel very happy! I could drink a whole bottle of wine using that salty face of the King as a side dish!
While the King was likely despondent on the inside, the commoners, unaware of such things, immediately began to make a fuss in anticipation of a festival.
These people don't care if it's a public execution or a Martial Arts Tournament as long as it's entertainment...
But well, that is fine. Let the Royal Family work hard on the preparations for a useless tournament. If strong people gather, it should be a reasonably fun event.
And besides...
I am also looking forward to a Martial Arts Tournament after such a long time.
Yes. I shall make full use of it.
That night, we held a modest victory toast at the hideout in Elsemarin. I ended up drinking Chesta under the table, and while stroking Keeb, who had curled up to sleep, I was chatting with Onii-sama and Giovan...
"I have returned."
Doran came back then.
"Oh, welcome back. How was it?"
"They weren't saying much of importance. Regarding Amavire Rent, there were more statements of self-preservation than accusations, and she had apparently been in a state where her sanity was questionable ever since she was discovered last night. At the very least, no suspicion is directed toward us."
Since Doran was with Carol as a Holy Knight, he had heard the conversation between the King and Carol. In times like this, having two people moving together makes handling things much easier.
"The King seems to have his head full with the Martial Arts Tournament rather than Amavire Rent."
"I suppose so. It seems they are doing it on quite a large scale..."
It must be quite complicated for the King. He might be able to win the favor of the citizens, but because their expectations are so high, he can't cancel it and has no choice but to keep pouring funds into it... Yes, thinking about it makes me feel truly happy!
"Well, he has no choice but to do it as grandly as possible so the citizens don't catch on to the internal situation. For the commoners, it's nothing but good entertainment."
"Likely so. In this way, they forget their anger, are given appropriate entertainment, and the citizens are tamed. If things continue like this, I predict that by the time the tournament ends, the citizens will once again obediently follow the Royal Family."
I believe Onii-sama's concern is correct. Anger doesn't last long, does it? Even if they have dissatisfaction with the Royal Family, it is the sad nature of the populace to forget as time passes.
While I think it can't be helped, it isn't very interesting if the people's anger subsides.
"I want to overthrow this country... should I force the cancellation of the tournament?"
Since Doran's goal is revenge against the Royal Family of this country, his thinking is moving in a somewhat simplistic and radical direction.
...That's true. Certainly, if we force the tournament to be cancelled just like the war... the Royal Family's preparations will all go to waste, which would be delightful, and the commoners will start throwing tantrums again because their entertainment was taken away. Yes. That would be fine in its own way.
...But, I think.
"Doran, don't be in such a hurry. It's a rare Martial Arts Tournament; wouldn't it be a waste not to utilize it?"
"...Utilize?"
"Yes. Since the citizens will gather, it is a great stage to incite them, and it would be reassuring if we could obtain a certain amount of military force, wouldn't it? Strong people from all over will be gathering at the venue, right?"
The idea of us snatching away what the King was aiming for is quite appealing. Letting the enemy do all the preparation and then we take all the results. There aren't many things as wonderful as that.
"I see... knowing you, I thought you would suggest setting fire to the tournament venue."
"Do you think I'm some kind of arsonist...?"
I don't burn just anything and everything, you know...? Well, certainly, if there's something I feel like burning, I'll burn it...
"...I believe the opportunity to truly crush the Royal Family is approaching. The Royal Family is currently barely standing by borrowing the credit of the Cathedral. I believe that if we can gain the cooperation of the commoners, we can sufficiently plan a national overthrow."
"Ho. You lot are doing something quite interesting."
At Doran's words, Onii-sama nodded with a smile.
"I, too, was aiming for a national overthrow, albeit from a different direction."
"Is that so!?"
"Of course. Only death awaits the foolish Royal Family that laid a hand on Fortesia. ...Well, I was planning to burn down the castle, though."
"What? Between the young lady and the big brother, is the Fortesia household some kind of arsonist training school?"
It is not. We just like things to be a bit flashy.
"Currently, I have already prepared cannons outside the border. My plan is to surround the castle and fire, destroying it all at once."
"...You just casually said something outrageous. How am I supposed to react to this? Should I be amazed? Or should I lament that it's too late?"
"Either is fine! As expected of Onii-sama! You are wonderful! To think you had already raised your military power enough to bring down that castle!"
When I praised him, Onii-sama nodded contentedly. Ah, so this is what Onii-sama had been doing in secret...
...I wonder what kind of cannon can destroy a castle in one shot... I'm a little curious...
"Of course, destroying the castle all at once might lack a bit of finesse. Ideally, I would like to drag the King out and subject him to crucifixion, making him slowly regret laying a hand on Fortesia... well, whether we use cannons or another method, we need people to operate the cannons and people to fight. Even considering that, using the Martial Arts Tournament to gather people isn't a bad move! Fuhahahaha!"
...Somehow the conversation is progressing smoothly... well, it is a wonderful thing!
That's right. If possible, rather than letting the King or Dactor-sama die with the castle, I would prefer to subject them to burning at the stake or something with the burning castle in the background... either way, we need people and the will of the people.
"Now then. For that reason, I want to gather people. Excellent warriors would be even better. But... how do you think we should gather people at the Martial Arts Tournament?"
"How about capturing them with a Spatial Bag?"
"Doran. You mustn't do that. There's no point in gathering people who won't listen to you."
While we could kidnap as many people as we want using a Spatial Bag, we wouldn't gain any pawns that way. Making everyone into slaves is an option, but...
"By the way, the Royal Family gathering people at the tournament is all well and good, but how were they planning to turn them into soldiers? Luring them with money?"
Oh, come to think of it, that's true.
Could that Royal Family have intended to lure them with high wages? Even though they have no money? Hmm... that's a bit hard to imagine.
"It's unlikely they lured them with money. That Royal Family is broke. In that case, it's more likely they would spout nonsense about the 'honor of being chosen by the King' to force them into military service, or perhaps lure them by appointing them to some random knightly position, saying they 'recognize their ability.'"
"...Hm? Knights?"
As we were talking, Chesta, who had been dead drunk on the opposite sofa, suddenly started squirming and woke up.
"Are you... talking about knights right now?"
"We are."
To Chesta, who looked like he had definitely taken drugs in addition to alcohol, I gave a proper reply for the time being.
"...The country's knights... they're cool, aren't they. When I grow up... I'm gonna be a knight..."
A perfectly 'out of it' reply came back...
"...You, even though you had an arm taken by a knight."
"When you grow up? How much bigger do you plan to get?"
"At the very least, someone who's drunk and high and sleeping isn't a child..."
"Do you admire knights? How very innocent of you."
While we each reacted, Chesta curled up again and fell back asleep. What is with this guy?
...But, ah. Hearing Chesta's words, I somehow understood.
Come to think of it, for 'decent' people, the country's knights are practitioners of justice and power... an 'aspiration.'
Of course, in reality, the exercise of power isn't necessarily for the sake of justice, and Chesta lost an arm because of that... it's hard to say.
But aspiration can be a reason that moves people.
...Which means.
"Hey. Don't you think the Royal Family's aim is 'aspiration'?"
"What do you mean?"
"It's simple. The Royal Family intends to use the tournament to direct 'aspiration' toward one of their own! Yes, they intend to create a 'Hero' that other warriors will admire and follow!"
To put it another way, it's the same as Carol and the Cathedral.
Regarding the Cathedral, rather than the Cathedral itself, it is Carol herself, appearing before the people as the one leading the Cathedral, who gathers popularity and then funnels that popularity toward the Cathedral.
...The Royal Family is surely trying to do the same thing.
"...Interesting. Then, I shall not let them become heroes."
I have thought of something wonderful.
A way to crush both the Royal Family's aim and whoever was 'scheduled to become a hero.'
Furthermore, a way to gather both military force and the will of the people in their place.
That is...
"I shall enter the Martial Arts Tournament."
It is for me to become the Hero.