Chapter 28
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Translator: MadScientist
Chapter: 28
Chapter Title: Organization Meeting (1)
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I closed the book I was reading and breathed in the cool night air blowing in at just the right moment.
The drowsy yet heavy feeling hadn't improved much, but there was no other way.
It had been two days since I returned to Prion. It was hard to believe that two full days had already passed.
The moment I arrived, I was transferred to Erban Medical Center and underwent all sorts of tests.
The results weren't much different from what I'd received at the campsite.
Grain was flustered but agreed that my issue needed to be handled by a mage, not a holy mage.
The good news was that my physical condition had improved far more—and much faster—than before.
The coughing fits that had burst out violently were gone, and so was the intense fever and the breathing difficulties that came with it.
A more vicious scar remained on my chest than before.
When I placed my hand over the wound, a heart that didn't feel like mine throbbed, and eerie blood coursed through me.
Visible Mana had become even clearer and stronger—a clear sign that the amount of mana had increased.
Once my stamina recovered enough, I felt like I could use magic again...
The problem was that very stamina.
I rested my chin on the windowsill and gazed down at the Prion city streets sparkling under the lamplight.
Not even the chirping of birds could be heard; they must all be asleep.
The white walls embracing the city streets softly reflected the moonlight, and cool air carried the scent of the forest from the northern woods.
I slumped over at the cool window and laid my heavy mood atop the book.
For the first time, I realized I was afraid to fall asleep.
Drowsiness washed over me, but I couldn't quite drift off.
If I had a dream like that one again...
Just thinking about it sent chills down my spine. If it happened again, who could hold me back?
No matter how many times I told myself it would be fine, the anxiety wouldn't fade.
I conjured a small light above my palm.
If I left the room light on, a nurse would come. I didn't want to worry them unnecessarily.
The tiny light was enough to read a book or two. I'd already finished all the ones Father and my friends had brought.
When I tired of reading, I'd lean my head against the window and reflect on the day's events.
During the day, Mother was always by my side.
I didn't share the details to avoid worrying her, but it seemed Father had given her a rough outline.
Mother would smile at me with a face that looked ready to burst into tears. Seeing that hurt my heart terribly.
Clemence and Wedin came rushing to my room the moment they heard I was awake.
"Lib suddenly vanished in the middle of the night, then an alarm blared out of nowhere, the city got noisy, knights rushed out..."
"S-Sorry."
"This isn't your fault to apologize for!"
I'd apologized on reflex when Clemence burst into tears, only to get scolded by Wedin.
That entire day was spent soothing and comforting the two of them.
Starting the next day, they visited frequently, bringing books, board games, baskets full of flowers, and snacks from the market to fill my boring time with fun.
Shuren came to check on me almost every day, too.
According to Mother, even though he hadn't taken his graduation exam yet, he'd stuck by Father's side searching for me.
Despite being a student with little combat experience, he hadn't shown any fear.
I gazed anew at Shuren, who laughed and chattered in front of me as usual.
He might become an outstanding knight someday. He was still weak at strategy games, though.
Because Prion had been attacked in the middle of the night, the festival atmosphere had turned chaotic.
The alarm echoing through the city streets had woken everyone, dragging back the fear they'd forgotten in their peaceful lives.
On top of that, a large-scale mobilization order had come down, forcing knights who were about to enjoy the festival to cancel their leaves abruptly.
After Prion's barrier was repaired, the White Guard Knights announced to the citizens that it was safe, but the festival hadn't been much fun, it seemed.
As dawn broke in the sky, light filtering between my eyelids made me blink my eyes open.
My stamina must not have held out, and I'd passed out for a bit.
The sounds of knights' early morning training echoed from spots around the city.
Shouts as they clashed swords, rhythmic number counts as they ran laps around the ramparts.
As the city awoke, footsteps and voices began filtering into the medical center one by one.
By then, I'd returned to bed and waited for Mother, clutching a book.
Mother arrived around when breakfast from the medical center was delivered.
We ate together, chatting about ordinary things like what I wanted to eat or where we'd go when I was discharged.
After the meal, Father and Erner knocked cautiously on the door.
It was surprising.
It was usually time for them to be working at the Blue Guard post; they only visited late in the evenings.
Another unusual thing was that both were dressed in fine Knight Order uniforms.
The clean white base of the uniforms was embroidered with delicate blue and gold decorations, and thick dark blue cloaks draped over their shoulders and backs.
"Looks like things didn't go as planned."
As Mother cleared the empty bowls and trays, Father gave a wry smile.
"When Claus Sage said so, even the White Guard Knights couldn't refuse. Don't worry too much. Erner will be by your side."
"That's not what I'm worried about..."
Mother glanced at me and let out a small sigh.
What were they talking about? It was clearly about me...
Father approached and gently stroked my hair.
"Lib, how are you feeling? Any pain?"
"I'm fine."
I couldn't say I was in great shape after days of poor sleep, so I just nodded.
"Good. Then go wash up and get ready to head out. Pick your clothes carefully, too."
"Where are we going?"
"To the organization meeting."
I widened my eyes and looked up at Father.
Organization meeting?
Father sat on the edge of the bed with a slightly weary face.
"Claus Sage and Prius's colored Guard Knights will gather to review what happened and discuss countermeasures."
"Even if you're involved, I requested several times to reconsider letting you attend... But Claus Sage insists you must be there."
"...I see."
I hadn't seen Ron Klaus since my identity was revealed in the campsite tent.
I'd planned to visit after discharge, but he'd beaten me to it.
"If you're not feeling well or don't want to recall those events, you don't have to go. If I tell Claus Sage, he'll understand."
"I'm fine. I'll go."
I mustered some enthusiasm, but Father and Mother worried I'd suffer recalling it. Still, they respected my decision.
"...Alright, then. Let's get ready."
Father swallowed a sigh and forced a smile.
Getting ready didn't take long. I washed my face thoroughly and changed into the neat clothes Mother had prepared.
I also told Grain, who happened to visit the room just then, that I'd be attending the organization meeting.
He looked worried but nodded helplessly.
Once ready, I took Father's hand and left the medical center. Mother patted my shoulder, telling me to come back safe.
Just walking through the sunlit garden after so long out of the room lifted my spirits immensely.
The worries and anxiety I'd huddled with all night seemed to melt away.
Father and Erner's Knight Order uniforms drew a lot of attention, with passersby turning to look or greeting us.
Father returned the greetings kindly and gently while walking briskly toward the White Guard post.
"We're probably the last ones."
Father cleared his throat in front of the grand corridor and large door on the third floor of the White Guard post.
It was solemn and quiet, housing the White Guard Knights' offices and important meeting rooms.
Before opening the meeting room door, Father straightened my clothes once more.
"Lib, once we're in the meeting room, sit quietly in your assigned seat. Don't speak without permission, and if you answer or ask questions, do so politely."
"Yes, Father."
Erner, watching from behind, chuckled a little.
"Lib will be fine, Instructor. And even if he slips up, everyone will forgive him."
Father let out a small sigh.
"You're right, Erner. It would be harsh to expect that of Lib."
"Lib, if you feel unwell or want to leave, tell Erner anytime. He'll be right by your side."
"Don't worry. I'll be okay."
Only then did Father nod, looking somewhat relieved.
Pushing open the heavy door revealed a room larger than I'd imagined.
The ceiling was high, and a large round table sat in the center. Documents and teacups awaited their owners on top.
"Jayden, Erner. And Liberic. Come on in."
White Guard Knight Petron Lesis greeted us at the door.
Dressed in his white Knight Order uniform, he moved about pouring red tea from a teapot into empty cups.
The sight was unexpected but suited him perfectly.
"White Guard Knight. Hope we're not late."
"Not at all. The Sage hasn't arrived yet. Take your seats. Liberic's spot is over there."
The place the White Guard Knight indicated had a plush armchair for two, positioned to observe the meeting table from a distance.
Before sitting, we exchanged brief greetings with the others.
"Jayden."
"Senior."
Black Guard Knight Jin Gregor extended a friendly hand to Father.
His uniform was simpler and more practical compared to the others'.
"Liberic, we meet here again."
The Black Guard Knight greeted Father warmly, then placed a large hand on my shoulder. I bowed politely to him.
Red Guard Knight Merian Cortis was with her husband and vice officer, Collin Cortis.
Merian wore her uniform but no cloak, her fiery red hair flowing freely.
The two greeted us with a light wave.
Merian and her Red Guard had chased the demons out of the campsite, pursued them closely, and even pushed into the mansion where I'd been trapped.
They looked busy preparing their report for the meeting.
"Sorry, we're late."
As Erner and I sat side by side, sipping the warm tea the White Guard Knight had given us, the door opened and Luwen entered.
He was panting, so he'd probably run all the way here.
A while later, Ron Klaus strolled in leisurely, scratching his head.
"What, everyone's so diligent."
As he entered the meeting room, everyone stood to greet him.
The White Guard Knight guided him to his seat and poured tea into an empty cup.
Luwen sat next to Klaus with an utterly exhausted expression.
When our eyes met, he managed a strained smile in greeting.
"Good. Let's begin the meeting."
The White Guard Knight's solemn voice echoed through the room, and the attendees tensed, straightening their postures.
I looked around at those seated at the table.
Father and the White Guard Knight sat ahead of me, backs turned; Klaus and Luwen opposite them. Merian and Collin to Klaus's right, Black Guard Knight to his left.
The White Guard Knight stood and cleared his throat with a hem.
"First, I'll call the roll of attendees. Red Guard Knight Merian Cortis, Vice Officer Collin Cortis. Blue Guard Knight Jayden Eldrian and his Vice Officer Erner Belliuud. Black Guard Knight Jin Gregor."
"And Sage Ron Klaus and Luwen Klaus, representative of Althur Tower."
Each time a name was called, the person lightly bowed in acknowledgment.
To think these great figures of Prius had gathered to discuss my issue. It felt strangely surreal.
"And Liberic Eldrian, attending as a reference witness. Thank you for coming."
I nearly jumped to my feet. Unsure what to say, I mumbled a "Yes."
The White Guard Knight gave a gentle smile, and Merian across the table waved playfully.
Their bright faces eased my tension a bit.
Ron Klaus, who had called me as a reference, merely glanced my way.
I couldn't predict what storm that man would bring.
"Absent is Silver Guard Knight Hunter Stanis. He's on mission and couldn't attend."
"Now, onto the first agenda. Merian, ready?"
"Yes, White Guard Knight. Let's start."
Merian Cortis stood. Everyone around the table looked up at her.