Permission to Take Off
The Emperor leaving his residence is never common. It can be likened to the heart having to be safely in the chest.
The sight of such a being clapping his subordinate on the shoulder while holding medals in one hand was something that could only be seen when the Empire was winning wars and improving.
To add more, in fact, even that was at the moment when entering the system, the widest place.
All the people in the world. All places in the world had taken all measures so that everyone could see this scene.
“I will not, in any case, speak at length.”
In this part. The scene happening here, in the plaza of the Imperial Academy, can be said to be very new and shocking for the Empire's people as well as foreign nations.
The Emperor's voice was neither particularly grand nor majestic. However, that very calmness made all the citizens swallow dryly.
“Because the whole world already knows. Everyone is a witness.”
More than half of those gathered at today's place are academy students. Normally, high-ranking nobles and officials of the Empire should be there, but this time it was different.
It was possible because the Emperor personally stated that 'the owners of this place are them, so don't snatch the seats unnecessarily.'
And because they were 'students'. New reactions different from before flowed out.
The appearance of caution or calculation rather than respect or awe that had been seen so far. That would be the appearance shown as a noble and as an Empire official.
The Emperor never belittled or said anything unnecessary about it.
But this time, the person was different. Since the world's time hadn't quite touched them yet, and they could be a bit more pure. The Emperor liked how they were cheering and sparkling with eyes wanting to be like that.
“To the noble who has illuminated the Empire, I will only bestow the glory befitting him.”
When the Emperor's words ended, the chamberlain stood respectfully behind. In his hand was a large box.
What was in that box, everyone gathered here knew well thanks to 'whom'.
“Your sacrifices will surely be honored by His Majesty as well.”
The box opened, and four different medals sparkled inside.
There will be four glories today, but the person holding that glory is only one.
“Your honor will be remembered even in the Empire's last days.”
When those standing beside nodded, Karl, waiting, cautiously knelt in front of them.
It was like going crazy from embarrassment, but according to the Emperor's words, 'Become the object of envy of these students.' he didn't deny it either.
Young souls looking at heroes, dreaming of heroes, might become another hero someday.
“Karl Adelheit. Young master of Friedrich County. The Empire's sharp sword, the Empire's loyal subject. Come, stand proudly before the glory that rightfully belongs to you.”
When the Emperor's permission fell, Karl, who was kneeling, slowly stood up.
“I personally recognize your merits in governing the Empire and bestow this medal.”
The first one, the Order of Merit with the name of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, hung on Karl's chest.
Another glorious light revealed itself next to the already shining Medal of Honor.
“Also, for bestowing a positive evaluation on the Empire's future through benevolent influence, I bestow this medal in honor of your merits.”
Next to it was the Golden Crown Culture Medal. It was usually awarded to outstanding scholars or artists, but this time it could be considered a commendation for giving them influence comparable to them.
“Next. The Imperial Council members unanimously decided to award the Imperial Council Honorary Gold Medal.”
Originally, only 2/3 approval was needed, but this time the entire Imperial Council made the same decision.
Slightly, the Empire's war hero. Greatly, the light warrior scattering benevolent influence across the entire continent. For such a person, 'bestowing a medal is a bit awkward.' the moment is fixed.
“Finally. For all these merits, as the head of the imperial family and the master of the Empire. I will bestow the Imperial Freedom Medal with 'admiration' personally.”
The Imperial Freedom Medal is under the jurisdiction of the Imperial Household Agency. That is, only the Emperor's will is important.
How many people in Empire history have received the words of admiration from the Emperor himself?
The students gathered to enjoy the festival stared blankly with mouths open at the protagonist receiving the admiration.
“Looks good.”
The Emperor smiled brightly while looking at the medals on Karl's chest.
He, who had been extremely restrained in emotional expression, could smile like that. The chamberlain and the Imperial Household Agency director were all in a state of great inner turmoil.
“Look.”
The Emperor, reaching out with his own hands to grab Karl's two shoulders, turned to the crowd and continued.
“You are the ones I protected.”
At the Emperor's words, at least some clearly understood. Some students who had suffered greatly from the Luzens elves last year. Students who had relatives or friends on the train.
And although not very close, those who could sleep comfortably in the few years ago because Karl was on the front lines.
“Again, look.”
The Emperor declared as the last words.
“You are the ones you admire.”
*
Suddenly, I wonder. What will the Empire's historians write about this event today?
The Emperor personally came to the academy and hung four medals, or even with the Emperor there, a noble like me gave a speech at the academy festival.
No matter what, from the historians' perspective, it will be a very palatable event.
“Eh… Well, I'll skip it simply.”
Honestly, I think I went crazy at the time. The evidence is that when the Emperor said to me 'It seems appropriate for Karl young master to give the speech.' I blurted out some alien language with "Ah!"
That's why I said such strange words. I can swear that my true feelings were never revealed, never, never.
“Playing is also a skill. I hope this autumn festival will be more enjoyable than last time.”
As soon as I said it, from the elves' perspective, it might sound like 'I still remember what your compatriots did last year. You gganfs.'
But it was already too late. The Hyegens side elves' faces looking a bit pale... I don't know. Just think it's my imagination.
And in fact, your compatriots did some nonsense. Thinking it's compensation for that, I can bow deeply to the Imperial Academy every time this comes.
In the middle, some high officials from the Empire side whispered next to me.
“The ribbon bars will all be attached to Karl Adelheit young master's new military uniform and newly delivered. It will be delivered a more splendid one than the previous uniform soon, so you can expect it.”
“Ah, that…”
“Hahaha! I'll receive the thanks later. It's not comparable to the medals, but the ribbon bars were prepared with all my effort too.”
I wasn't particularly expecting it! They're giving me a new uniform with ribbon bars dangling and telling me to wear it every time there's an official schedule?! Because it's more comfortable than the medals, I can do that!
I wanted to say, 'If you just give the ribbon bars. I'll attach them myself.' but no matter what, I couldn't openly do that in front of the people who suffered for me.
In the end, 'Please take care. Hahaha.' was the best I could do.
“Karl Adelheit young master.”
It seems like it's almost over, but the chamberlain sneaks up beside me.
“Before His Majesty retires to the palace, he wants to see the young master for a moment.”
“I'll go right away. Please lead the way.”
I thought all the things to say to me were done, but probably there were more personal words to convey.
Instinctively, I thought it was related to the foreign envoys who had come to the academy this time.
Just a moment ago, the academy students and all others had been saying various compliments while leading me here.
“You young master probably knows too.”
And when I approached the Emperor, I saw him immediately bringing out the main point, and I thought for sure the Emperor is the Emperor.
“The Holy See, of course, and Hyegens, Lasquer. Even Abillesti. They came to this academy with their own reasons.”
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
“Enjoy the festival well.”
“...”
“Youth is a good thing, isn't it.”
After listening to that, the outline of what the Emperor wants became clear.
- Foreign envoys came, but the Holy See aside, the other three are a bit...
- After all, I floated you, and it's the academy festival. Most importantly, since you're still young, there's little problem with acting spiritedly.
- Therefore, I permit you to act wildly within the appropriate judgment.
It's quite a difficult order, Your Majesty.
While it can be tolerated under the name of festival, at the same time, something that can exert pressure on the three places excluding the Holy See. This is too difficult.
After scratching my head for a moment, I concluded. As expected, there's only one thing I can do well.
“Um.”
I check the contents in my pocket. Since I received the blessings of two cardinals and the Pope, I should have some magic resistance attached, right?
The clothes... well, it's okay if they get a bit damaged. After all, I've rolled around on the battlefield with fire on my body many times.
"Flame Magic Demonstration!"
"Maximizing the Splendor of the Festival!"
⟨ FLAME MAGIC DEMONSTRATION ⟩
I will apologize in advance to my magic research juniors. Don't blame me. This is all because the Emperor ordered it.