Category: Hagure Seirei Ino Shinsatsu Kiroku

Together with Astina-denka and Presha-san, we went to the dungeon where the prisoners are being held. Leslie who’s also accompanying us is having signs that she had been thinning her presence since a while ago –Does that mean that she won’t be making claims unless necessary?

“In yesterday’s battle, we couldn’t capture any Zirconian soldier. I had been told by Dite that they had captured an enemy soldier the night before yesterday but I forgot… Grass, thank you for your suggestion.”

“I(Boku)… No, since I (Watashi) was able to treat that prisoner of war, it left a strong impression to me. To some extent, I expected that he would be regaining consciousness today base from the condition of his wound.”

“As expected of you. I know you respect me but it’s okay to keep the “I (Boku)” if that’s more natural for you.”

Her Highness says so, but I’m wondering if I can really accept her suggestion. Furthermore, it’s not very polite of me to do that to a person with such a noble position –it shows how generous Her Highness is for allowing me to do so.

Her Highness has forgotten the existence of the prisoner but that’s reasonable as she has various duties as a general and she even fainted after going into the battle yesterday. Still, if everything can be calculated and moved perfectly, it means that she is truly transcendental.

If I look at her strength, magical power and strategy, I think she can be separated from humans. But that doesn’t mean that she’s forced to be perfect –she gets sick too and if possible, she should have time to relax too. However, that will only be possible after overcoming the pressing problems.

I take out a flower bulb and put it on the floor. The Zirconian soldier, who was silently lying down, looked up, he has this faint color of curiousity as he has no idea of what was going on.

“Oh Lustrous flower that blooms in the enchanted garden… reveal yourself in this world and show your power!”

In response to my chant, the bulb absorbs the magical power of the surrounding area and stretches its root.

“Uhmm…this is… Grass, I can feel something flowing out of me…”

“I’m very sorry, Your Highness…The magical power that overflows from your body has not yet been completely stopped. With the help of Your Highness’ magical power, Arlaune is summoned and she’s about to appear.”

While we are looking at it, stem then grows out of the bulb then large bud soon attached to it. When the bud opened, the girl with a flower on her head appeared and she’s smiling as she saw me.Translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“Summoner-sama, you called me…”

She’s trying to greet me but Arlaune suddenly looks at Her Highness as if she noticed something.

“…Mom…you smell like my mother. This person…”

“…D-Do I resemble your mother?”

“I-I’m sorry, Your Highness. Arlaune, Her Highness is from a royal family and she’s a human being you know.”

“I-I’m sorry… but she does resembles my mother a little bit. Her magical power is of different wavelength from other people you see.”

As I can feel it, Arlaune’s mother is a plant spirit. I’ve never heard of a human with magical powers close to a spirit –no, it’s possible but it’s not that easy to apply.

A human child carrying a spirit power may inherit the properties of that spirit. However, it is so rare that there is no such student even at the Magic Academy, in addition, it is treated as a legend.Translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

But if it’s Her Highness, it may be possible. If she really inherited a royal shrine maiden’s blood…

“T-Then, Summoner-sama. Should I ask this person what to say?”

“Uh… w-what are… I won’t talk… absolutely… nothing…uh…”

He has strong willingness to resist –probably because he knows something and he can’t speak of it. However, a human without a power of resistance cannot withstand Arlaune’s hypnosis. Kindly read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com

The flower on Arlaune’s head is shining and so the particles around it –pollens are flying out. When the designated subject inhales them, the components that act on the central nervous system change obediently no matter how stubborn you are.

The light faded from the prisoner’s eyes –Her Highness was also stunned when she saw it. Presha-san has seen it once, but she’s still amazed and was unable to say a word.

“Keeping him under hypnosis for too long will affect the prisoner’s mind. It’s long enough so please ask him for information in the meantime.”

“I understand. Well then…. please tell us about your affiliation and name.”

“…General Alejandro…Zirconia Third Corps…Covert Combat Engineer Unit…”

The man talks about each of his identity. Leslie was responsible for writing it down and recording it. Then the man revealed that Zirconia had built two bases across the canal, in the east and west side. From there, they had been training to quickly bring warships to the canal.This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“Why were you able to do that without us seeing you from here?”

“…A magician… Noin… He accompanied General Alejandro…”

“Uh….!!”

Noin –When we heard that name, me and Leslie were stunned.

A student of the same age as us who was taken up as a court magician immediately after finishing the spirit selection ceremony. Speaking of the water magician Noin, I can’t help but to recall that person.

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

Her Highness’ guidelines for crossing the canal, crossing the border, and attacking Zirconia’s bases were shown.

However, there are some points of concern. Did the military headquarters from the royal capital really know the situation of this fortress and didn’t try to take effective action?

“In our kingdom, there is a good reason to attack Zirconia. Since the Isle Rose Fortress was built, we have never invaded their territory from here. Everybody knows how many invasions from Zirconia have been repeatedly done here.”

“…B-But… it’s more dangerous to attack than to defend. If the enemy intercepts our army as we tried to cross the canal…”

Even though she knew it was rude, one of the attack captains spoke her opinion. Another person next to her tries to hold her back but she was not able to.

“Normally, we should be able to make a relay point between the royal capital and Isle Rose fortress and have two to three thousand soldiers stationed there. But after I was stationed at this fortress, the requests I made to the royal capital were no longer granted.”

“Uh… t-then… with the current situation, this fortress is already…”

“…The ones I sent out to the royal capital didn’t return. Some people are intercepting my notes before they reach His Majesty. To say it in a loud voice, this surely indicates rebellion. And that our situation turned undesirable.”

Despite being treated unfavourably by the Second Queen due to the issue of succession to the throne, she protects the kingdom without saying anything – that’s Astina-denka whom the knights respect, obey and pledged their lives.

But that also has its limits. At the center of the kingdom, there is an opponent of this knight’s order –if we leave it alone as it is, there will be sacrifices.

“Bridget, you originally wanted to be an imperial guard knight. It might be unacceptable for you who had a dream of serving His Majesty but I want you to believe me. I have no intention of betraying His Majesty. In order for the Western Territories to continue to be part of the Kingdom of Lezenia, we are just trying to fulfil the role of the Knights.”

“…Astina-denka….No, General Astina…I’m extremely sorry for my rudeness. Forgetting my gratitude to you for discovering me as a mere swordsman and just simply cause disturbance… The disgrace of this time… after the due battle, with my own sword…”

“That is… You are not thinking straight! If you told me that, I wouldn’t even look after you.”

“Kuh… I-I know. But I can’t think of any other way to take responsibility…”

“If you can’t think of it, I’ll tell you then. Just swear your loyalty again to Her Highness. If you can’t do that, leave your decorative sword behind and go back to the countryside.”

Dite-san gives out stern words to the one called attack captain Bridget. Raquel-san raised her hand and holds back any more words from Dite-san.

“Bridget, I ask of you, Chloe and Solfa to protect this fortress. In this operation, only some of the selected people will cross the river and infiltrate into the enemy’s territory.”

“Uh… t-to leave the defence of this fortress to us… does that mean that Knight Captain Raquel yourself will cross the river…?”

“That’s right. I, Presha and Dite. As what Grass taught us, we can use magical powers during the battle. The same goes for Her Highness… This is what she was hoping for. Rather than many soldiers clashing and killing each other, if we can change the outcome of the battlefield with just a small number of people, we should do that.”

“Depending on the strength of the enemy’s base, stopping their base from functioning alone will be difficult for us to do. At first, we may not grasp the entirety of the enemy but we will seek a way to cross the river. Even if we send a spy on the other side, they must survive first before they can play that role.”

Raquel-san, Presha-san, and Dite-san can do that but the other attack captains are at risk. If they try to escape when they feel danger, their survival rate may be higher than that of a general soldier but we should not take a risk.

All that is needed is information from the Zirconia Army and we can get it now.

“Astina-denka, can I get a permission to speak?”

When I raised my hand, I received everyone’s attention on the spot. If I remained timid here, nothing will happen so I only looked at Her Highness and waited for her permission.

“…Grass, is there a way for us to get some information other than infiltrating the enemy base?”This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“Yes. Dite-san’s corps who had been working the other night had taken the enemy soldier who survived as a prisoner. He was not interrogated last night about the enemy’s base because he had a huge blood loss due to his wound from the arrow. I think it’s very likely that he has that information.”

The one who responded the most was Presha-san. Her eyes were shining and it’s as if she found a treasure –we are at a war council so I don’t think she should look like that though…

“T-That’s right Your Highness…! With Grass-sensei here, no matter how tough the prisoner of war is, he can definitely get the information. Then we will surely find a way to attack!”

“Uh….Well, I didn’t think he’s so good at torture… With his kind look, he doesn’t look like one….”This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“Bridget-dono, I think you’re misunderstanding things here. That is not the case. Sensei can pull out the information without hurting the other party.”

Presha-san seemed proud of herself. Knowing the situation, Bridget-san looks the same but it seems that the other attack captain, Chloe-san and Archer Captain Solfa-san have changed their mind about me.

Hypnosis caused by Arlaune’s pollen is not all-purpose, because if the amount is adjusted incorrectly, it will leave after-effects on the person. But getting information is much more certain than painful torture.

“…Grass, can I attend your interrogation with that prisoner of war? I don’t think it is alright to say something like this now as I haven’t attended the other day, but…”

“N-No… if Your Highness wants to, you can do so.”

“Now then, we patrol around the fortress. Bridget, Chloe. It is possible to entrust you as commanders in the future, so I will explain the key points. Please accompany me.”

[[Yes!!!]]This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“We too will once again go up to the ramparts. Solfa, let’s go.”

“Y-Yes… Dite-ane-sama…”

Raquel-san and the four other captains left the room while Astina-denka remained on the round table. After telling something to her aide, she came to me with Presha-san in tow.

“I would also like to talk to you after the interrogation.”

“That is… Y-Your Highness, you remembered the matter about the sacred tree?”

“Of course. Though I couldn’t really leave the fortress right now… but I also can’t put it off. Since that’s the case, I thought I should visit the Sacred Tree now. There is no denying of the possibility of losing it you see.”

Her Highness is already determined. We are going to the sacred tree today.

Raquel-san and her companions will surely be left behind. Maybe she had read my thoughts as Presha-san nodded vigorously to me.

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

Hi guys, here’s a double relase as promised. Enjoy reading!

---

Astina-denka is wearing clothes that barely expose her skin. The condition wherein her body overflows with magical power was improved to some extent by completing her spirit mark but it is not completely suppressed because her magical power is fundamentally out of ordinary.This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

So the spirit mark may react to the magical power of Her Highness and appear in a state where anyone can see it. We don’t want to surprise the captains who are attending the war council so it’s best not to show the spirit mark at this time.

When will Her Highness have the opportunity to go under the tree of sacred tree?

–It’s better to be as early as possible. From here on, that will depend on the strategy that will be discussed.

“Yesterday, 62 Knights were killed due to the enemy’s attack. The night before yesterday, a Zirconian platoon set up an attack across the canal, but Dite’s corps repelled them. At that time, the enemy carried only one cannon.”

“I think the enemy army tried to destroy the city walls to invite turmoil on our army… even though it did not happen, they still attacked. It only meant that the enemy was also impatient, right?”

When Raquel said so, Astina-denka ordered her close aide to spread the map on the round table.This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“Perhaps Zirconia’s strategy would have been to make us think to defend the rampart. In reality, they were aiming to siege the fortress from east and west. They daringly used medium-sized boat to carry the cannons to keep our eyes away from their warships.”

“Your Highness, can I be permitted to speak? We are also watching the canal but there was no shadow or figure of a warship. How did the Zirconia’s side keep it hidden?”

Dite-san raised her hand and speaks after getting permission. I was also skeptical about that –if there was an enemy base along the canal’s upper stream and if they were following the stream over the water, we would definitely see it from the Isle Rose Fortress in which there’s a constant monitoring across the canal.

“…I have confirmed that the enemy has a magician and that was why I’ve been at the frontline.”This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“Uh………There’s a magician in Zirconia… so far, we never had such information…”

“Well, in exchange of having no magicians, Zirconia is ahead from our kingdom in terms of the development of military weapons. They consider it an advantage and try to incorporate it into their operations as they attack us… that’s what I thought.”

She spoke till that extent then Her Highness looked at me. Thinking that I’m going to be asked for some opinion, I prepared to answer.

“However, I’ve been feeling a sense of malaise for a while now. There was a sign of unrest across the canal… If that was because the magician was using some magic to trick our eyes…”

“….I think there is a possibility for that. Normally, it is difficult to maintain magic especially showing such a large illusion. However, water spirits are active across the canal. For example, that magician can show the illusion with the help of a mist.”

“Mist huh… If that was the case, then all this time, they made us think that we are safe as there’s no movement from the enemy across the river… right?”

“Her Highness was convinced of the existence of a magician while battling the enemy army from the east…Perhaps, the magician was accompanied by the enemy’s general, Alejandro?”

It was so far away from me so I couldn’t feel it –but Astina-denka’s sensation extends all around the fortress. As she gets closer, the easier it will be to feel the magician’s presence. As she was on the front line, it would almost be correct.

“Alejandro… Zirconia’s “white crow”. With him coming out from their capital probably means that he had been given full military power by their king. Even if he came out to the front line himself, their retreat had been early…”

“…I think it’s probably because the magician who followed Alejandro taught them about my perception. I thought about it when Grass explained the cause of my collapse, it wouldn’t be strange that the enemy army considers exhausting me first.”

The general of the Isle Rose Fortress can see the future and if she swings her sword, she is a warlord who can kill 100 people in a battle all at once. There’s no doubt that Zirconia considers Her Highness as the most threatening enemy.

And if the enemy has a magician, it is not strange to notice Astina-denka’s magical powers which spread all around Isle Rose Fortress.

(…Grass-sama. If the magician…)

Leslie next to me spoke in a soft voice. With that said, I too realized it.

There was a magician in the enemy’s army that could not be felt until now. Some people from the Royal Family are familiar with Zirconia –which suggests the worst possibility.

“…Grass, Lendl. This is what I ask of you since you guys are the only magicians present in this fortress…”

“Yes…we are ready to go on the battlefield. But, if the enemy have combat magicians who use elemental spirits… Most probably, they had undergone combat training.”

I can’t tell if they’re from the Silvana Magic Academy or they are magicians from Lezenia –but if our opponent uses “water” magic as I guessed, they could manipulate one of the elemental spirits from earth, water, fire and wind.

“But we still have to win this battle. At this rate, Isle Rose Fortress will isolate and cut off itself from the capital. There are some who don’t like us within the kingdom you see.”

“Uh….A-Astina-denka…t-that is…”

“I-If you say something like that, it would be considered as rebellion against the kingdom… Even as the third princess, pardoning you is…”

The two attack captains voiced out. The second archer captain turned pale and trembled without uttering a word. It’s natural to be afraid. Her Highness revealed that she could not put her full trust in the kingdom that she had been fighting for.

“To reward those who have died in the past, we cannot be so weakened and crushed by Zirconia like this. If that happens, the territory will be sacrificed and everything that we tried to protect so far will be robbed.”

“….To us, nothing will change. If Astina-denka’s aspiration is to protect the people, we will obey. If anyone has doubts, we will not force you to fight.”

Raquel-san’s remaks opened the eyes of those agitated captains.

Astina-denka then pointed out two points on the unfolded map. One of which is the other side of the canal, probably the location of the enemy base.

“…To protect this Isle Rose Fortress and the western territories, we will attack Zirconia while our troops’ strength and morale still remains.”

If we keep still, we will lose everything. Zirconia’s “White Crow” is stubbornly aiming for this fortress –furthermore, it will be hard to keep with such scheming behind.

On this battlefield, I thought I would never be seen as a magician. However, from the start, I cannot give up just because I am a “flop” spirit user.

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

When I was in the Academy, I would never have said this, “Trust in your own magic”. Entering the Western Territory, I experienced the atmosphere of the battlefield, albeit backwards, I was able to confirm that my magic can be used in a battle.

Of course, it’s no match for a battle magician who changes the battle situation in an instant. However, even if it cannot damage on a large scale, it is still effective against small forces as long as it is used correctly.Translated by Yume Neiji

“I will do anything to end this battle. Not only as a military doctor, please make me work as a magician as well when needed. I’ll surely be useful for Your Highness.”

Her Highness’ eyes are tinged with worry. I can feel that her hesitation to pull me into the battlefield still remains. I expressed my will by not looking away from her. I didn’t hide my cowardice nor squeeze out my courage, it’s just that I’m not afraid.

If you succumb into fear, instead of having done something useful, you might end up doing nothing at all.

“…..Thank you, Grass. Your resolve has been relayed.”

“…..Uh, T-Then, Your Highness…”

Perhaps Her Highness felt conscious and she worried whether to turn her back to me, in the end, while pulling the sheets towards her chest, she looked at me.

“I’ll borrow your power. I’ll tell what you have to do in tomorrow’s war council. I’ll have a seat prepared for you so come together with your assistant.”

“Y-Yes, I understand… Your Highness, regarding “his” circumstances…..”

“I heard about it in advance via letter. At that time, I even wondered why someone from Lenklus bloodline would accompany you… Millenia has some rough spots but she rarely does things without thinking so I didn’t ask for details.”

“Thank you. If “she” was asked about her identity first, she wouldn’t be here.”

When I thanked her, Her Highness smiles back. As she smiled with her well-placed eyebrows, I can no longer associate her as same figure that has devilishly slashed myriad of enemy soldiers on the battlefield.

This is true for all the knights of this fortress. To be honest, one must become a demon to protect the people.Translated by Yume Neiji

“…You yourself may not think of it but, your desire moved the girls. Presha, Dite, Katie… and Raquel too, even the maids who just met you… Instead of me who served as their leader, they might open their hearts more to you who’s here to heal them.”

“….Speaking of healing, it’s not only about curing injuries. First of all, it’s about the meals. I heard that Your Highness is eating the same thing as the lower ranked soldiers but that is not enough nutrition. Overall, we need to improve our diet.”

Perhaps because the story suddenly changed to a petition about the food situation, Her Highness’ paused and her gaze was fixed at me –she reacted as I suddenly said such thing.

“…Abstinence helps to make our bodies cleaner and eliminate impurities. That’s what I thought.”

Certainly, effective dieting or fasting can improve the body’s metabolism. However, it is only the case when nutritional benefits is taken into consideration, and even if the present diet can supply heat and a part of nutrition, it is not enough to maintain the body of a highly active soldier.Read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com

“Once I have some prospect for stabilizing the food supply, can I consult with the cooks? Improving the diet will improve the morale and health of the soldiers.”

“…I’ll think about it. If possible, I would like to ask for some guidance on our current meals first… As a Princess, although I received an education as a knight, it’s embarrassing to say but other than that, I’m poorly informed.”

“Y-Yes…. I’ll do as Your Highness wishes. I think that serving as a military doctor should be the first priority.”

“…Change the battle situation and create a situation where the enemy will no longer attack. Everything else will come after that, right?”

She reverted back to the look of a commander, completely erasing her naive behaviour that asked me for guidance. First of all, what kind of guidelines will Astina-denka demonstrate for tomorrow’s war council?

I greeted Soara and Karin then left Her Highness’ bedroom.

◆◇◆

I was fortunate that the room I was assigned to was a room with two separate bedrooms. Each room is barely large enough to sleep in, but if the beds were lined up in the same room, it would not have been easy to fall asleep.

In the Academy, dormitories for men and women were separated by the school building and it was strictly forbidden to come back and forth to the other’s premise. Occasionally, girls sneaked into the boys’ dormitories and vice versa, but it was a story that me and Leslie had nothing to do about, it was just a topic during our conversations.

―Thus, I feel like I had a little dream about those days that I had spent at the academy. When the morning sun starts to appear in the sky, Leslie woke me up.

“Good morning, Grass-nii”

“Oh, Good Morning. We have to attend the war council today, so let’s finish the hospital round for the patients before that.”

Leslie has changed into men’s clothing but she hasn’t worn her glasses and hat yet. It’s unlikely that I will see her with her hair down, but when I look at her again, it makes her feel strangely refreshing.

“…I already tied my hair so I just have to put my hat.”

“You’ve had it tough… Well, it’s bad to speak of it like it’s none of my business. Is there anything I can do to help?”

 “No, it’s okay. When I’m all set, I’ll call you Grass-sensei. What about Grass-nii?”

 “Alright, it’s “Lendl-san”. I’ll call you that until we can tell everyone about it.”

“…I’m sorry for the trouble.”

Even so, this is unavoidable because she wants to accompany me. However, even if the Lenklus family knows about Leslie’s whereabouts, I do not intend to easily make her return with them when they come here.

I need someone with medical expertise, even a little bit of it to assist me –if possible, I should also consider nurturing her. With that in mind, I got out of bed and started preparing.Translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

After finishing the hospital round and eating breakfast at the cafeteria, I took Leslie to the round table. Raquel-san assisted me and told me where to sit in the round table –me and Leslie were in the lowest position, almost directly opposite Her Highness.

I never expected a day will come that I’ll be sitting here –Raquel-san, Presha-san and Dite-san. And there are two other attack captains who I haven’t talked to yet and one archer captain, although I haven’t heard the exact details, there are also captains from other units, there are ten knights in all.

We all remain standing while waiting for Her Highness to come in. Eventually, the guard announced that Her Highness is going to enter the room, the knights similarly greet with salute.This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

Her Highness looked at everyone and put her right hand on her chest in order to pray. Then she opens her eyes again, and when she nods, the knights return to an upright position.

“I will now commence the war council. Please sit down.”

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

I draw the mark on Her Highness’ body –I don’t have aptitude for painting but since I’m using a paint that reacts to magical power, I can draw it. If you have high accuracy in manipulating your magical powers, you can draw the figures as you wanted.

Even if I cannot train on the skill of summoning spirits, I performed magical power manipulation training as it’s one of the basic classes. There was a class lesson in which paint that reacts to magical power was applied to an entire surface of the paper and by precisely manipulating my magical power, it caused interference in which the image from the task was created.Translated by Yume Neiji

Though no matter how good the results were, the “flop” students were not evaluated. If we can’t become a magician, none of our current specialized lessons as a magician will be useful. –Anyway, even if we can use it in our daily lives, the teachers don’t think it’s worth it.

“…Grass…a little…”

“Oh… I’m sorry, Your Highness.”

Her Highness, who looked like she was sleeping as her eyes were closed, raised her hands a little. It can’t be helped, even when I got my spirit mark drawn, it was extremely difficult to keep still without any slight movement.

Sven who has just chosen a stone spirit was very calm and self-possessed, he even said that he had no difficulty while having his mark drawn. But no matter how calm Her Highness looks, it doesn’t mean that she’s not perturbed.

However, rather than spending more time, it is better to take into account the fact that there will be some movements and draw it all at once. From here on out, I’m aiming to complete it –I still have a full back side left to be done.

I don’t have to draw on her face, just until the neck. With this, while we’re going to the sacred tree’s place, others would not be surprised as the drawing can be hidden in her clothes.This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“…We are done with your upper body. Then, can you please lie on your stomach?”

“I understand. Grass, are you not tired?”

“No, I’m still good. Thank you very much for your concern.”

“You’ve been moving around since you came here, that must be tiring. Don’t overdo it… No. I have to eliminate the exhausting condition of the entire fortress as soon as possible….”

Even in this situation, Her Highness is still thinking about the war. What would she do if she predicted that Zirconia would attack again?

I think of that while drawing the mark on her back –I think that the only way to change the situation where Zirconia is unilaterally attacking us is to attack from here on.

The enemy can use a warship to cross the river from anywhere. This fortress facing the canal is by no means a good defense. It would be nice if the enemy stayed on the rear side of the water, but because the enemy also knew about it, instead of landing near the fortress, they divided themselves and landed in the east and west side.

……We are not even allowed to attack their bases and chase the retreating enemy army. It’s like waiting until this fortress falls someday. Even if it’s not like that, if we don’t have the opportunity to talk to Zirconia, this situation will not improve until the enemy is exhausted and gives up.

The things that I thought of, Her Highness surely knows everything about it too.

“…Grass, I’m sorry to have burdened you all, but may I order you to attend the war council tomorrow morning?”

“I… to join the war council… If I, a military doctor is present, the other generals might feel doubtful…”

“Raquel, Presha, Dite… And the other captains who were dispatched today know that you used magic on the battlefield. The siege tower that was approaching from the west side of the fortress collapsed before attacking from there. After receiving the report, I thought that it was your achievement, that it was you who used magic…. Is it wrong?”

Her Highness says so, as if she was looking all around the battlefield of the fortress.

She puts her chin on the pillow on the bed and puts her arms behind. While drawing the continuation of the spirit mark that was not drawn on the back of her arm, I answered,

“…Your Highness hasn’t tried to put magicians under your command until now. Still, you’re sure that I did it… Can you feel the flow of magical power on the battlefield?”

“Yes. If there was a magician on the battlefield, I could feel it… Well because of it, we were out of danger. But I was convinced that you used magic because I saw your magic once, you used it to stop those goblins.”

“Oh, at that time Your Highness has seen my magic huh…I’m sorry, I just thought that you hadn’t noticed me at all.”

Her Highness seemed to laugh a little. I feel more and more ashamed because of my impudence.This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“I knew you used magic to protect the people of my territory, but I didn’t trust you too much…”

“…Does that mean that there really is a problem with the right to inherit the throne as it was rumored in the royal capital?”

“…When I got the report from Presha, I was concerned about what you know. However, it must have been my groundless apprehension. I apologize for doubting you once.”

Astina-denka didn’t say, “The Second Queen is trying to trap me”.

We all know about it but she still wants to avoid turning His Majesty into an enemy of the Second Queen. There may be many reasons. But if there is an extremely big reason for that―

“Though it’s presumptuous of me to ask, will it be okay for you to answer me? How does the First Queen think of the current situation?”

“…She has kept her distance from the succession to the throne regardless of the rising conflicts. From the very beginning, she has no intention of fighting. She’s quietly recuperating in one of the villas of the royal family.”

Without upsetting her, Her Highness answered the question which was unavoidable even if it was considered to be rude.Read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com

The First Queen is away from the battle for succession to the throne. However, the Second Queen’s side is in the process of scheming to make her son, the Second Prince, the next king.

That probably means that the person whom His Majesty considers worthy of succeeding the throne is not the second prince. ―That’s no wonder though as the second prince is still a ten year old boy. Even if he succeeds the throne in the near future, he will have a regent.

As we speak, the Spirit Mark nears its completion. I draw a mark imitating the sun at the center of Her Highness’ back ―moon on her abdomen and sun on her back. By drawing a pair of patterns on the front and back of her body, she says that she is expressing the connection with the elements that make up this world.

“Thanks for your hard work. Your Highness, the mark is now completed.”

When I said so, Her Highness’ moves and grabs my wrist as I turned my back. It is by no means a strong force, but I cannot shake it off easily. When I look behind, Her Highness reveals a pattern that only the magician can see on the half of her body, it is as if she is wrapped in light.Translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“Grass… since you came, this fortress and even my Knights are about to change. I never imagined that this would happen. You were sent to me by the command of the Second Queen, I was even suspicious if you would really work as a military doctor.”

She still has something to talk about during this night. Her thoughts were reflected in her tone. ―I also have something to say. It’s about how was my existence seen by the Magic Academy and this kingdom.

“…I was selected by the Second Queen because I’m a “flop” magician. It’s mortifying but, I’m considered to be useless… I was only sent here in the form of a court magician just so I can pull Your Highness’ legs…”

Her Highness probably thought so too, until I actually started working as a military doctor.

“But I don’t want to end it with me being just a court magician in “form”. I really want to be a person who is suitable as a court magician… I’ve always longed to do it.”

“…If that’s the case, Grass….Please fight with me. I have always been told to keep away from magic, to trust a magician at this point in time, it’s like I’m doing it for my own convenience…. But……”

Her Highness also has hesitations. Can she expect so much to me who just came here? ―If I can get rid of that anxiety, I will do anything. I can’t grasp this hand right now, but I can put my determination into words.

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

I apologize once again for not being able to post chapters. For now, I’ll stick with the scheduled release. To make it up to you for the missed chapters, I’ll post extra double chapter once I have advance translation. Thank you for your usual support. ^_^

---

It seems that Leslie’s identity has already been written in the letter given by my stepsister to Her Highness. In other words, Astina-denka knows about Leslie so she was allowed to be here. It doesn’t mean that I’m deceiving my lord, Astina-denka then. Though I explained it like that, Leslie once again dressed as a man with the interference of air spirits and returned to her “Lendl” look.

It is almost time for Karin to finish copying Her Highness’ spirit mark on the paper. It’s only half, so I still have to figure out the whole image, restore it, and then draw it on Her Highness’ body.

“I, I think I can restore the pattern of the spirit mark. Remembering patterns is my forte you see.”

“Is that true? That being the case, since Leslie is also a woman, you can draw on Her Highness body…”

When I said so, Leslie shook her head. I thought it was a good idea but why is it a no go?

“A while ago, Grass-nii…”

She speaks while we are walking in the hallway and her original voice resonates. Leslie rephrased her words halfway so that it would be okay even if someone hears us.

“Since Grass-sensei was prompted to restore Her Highness’ magical power, Grass-sensei’s magical power entered Astina-denka’s body then. If I will be the one to draw the spirit mark, I think there will be a backlash… because I have “immunity” you see.”

“R-Right…”

“I think Sensei understands that as well. I know Sensei is kind and that you truly care about Her Highness but this is a doctor’s job. Everyone will not be wary of you so please do the medical treatment confidently.”

She’s really a reliable secretary –or rather, it’s like the usual preaching from a younger sister.This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

However, as what Leslie had said, I can’t refute it. Originally, I also thought that I should be the one to take a look at Her Highness’ body to see the spirit mark and copy it rather than leaving it to Karin. Well I didn’t do that, exactly as Leslie pointed out.

Not to mention that… The spirit mark is drawn in places where I can’t say it’s not embarrassing. Basically, it’s supposed to be drawn by the same sex….

“Grass-sensei, I’m sorry if my words seemed to be excessive. However since you will be facing women from here on, I don’t think that you should be reserved…”

“No, it is as Leslie says. It’s a matter regarding Her Highness body… In the future, I’ll do what I need to do as a doctor. I can’t say immature things.”

“…I think everyone is pleased to have such a gentle doctor come here.”

“O-Oi….Isn’t “Lendl-san” spoiling me too much?”

The original Leslie had some cynical points, so I panicked. I’m a person who’s weak when it comes to a complete stranger being kind to me.

 “After sensei came here, it’s something that everyone thinks.”

“…I’m too absorbed on my work so I myself is not sure about it.”

When I’m doing medical examination or medical treatments, I see Leslie as my assistant but she may be seeing and treating me differently. It is important to understand the patient’s feelings. Being busy does not mean that I cannot look at each person’s expression, I have to keep that in mind.Translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

◆◇◆

From Karin, who was waiting outside Her Highness’ room, I received the copy of the legendary seal drawn on Her Highness’ body.

“…the light, it gets blurred and disappears…”

“…It’s fine. Even with this, it’s possible to restore it.”

“That’s a great relief… Then, Lendl-san, if you can, I ask of you to do it as soon as possible. How long will it take?”

“About half an hour is enough. Please wait a moment.”

Half hour―restoring the blurry part of the spirit mark, although it is necessary to analogize and draw from the shape of the mark on the lower body part to the upper body part, I need only that much.

While Leslie is working on the restoration in the next room, I listen to Karin relaying about Her Highness’ condition. So far, she’s calm and she used to talk to Soara, but she’s now resting.This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

Raquel-san seems to have remained until a while ago, but she returned to her own room under Her Highness’ instruction and is now resting. She was told to take a break in preparation for the war council early tomorrow morning –I’m wondering what will be discussed but I will not be called as I’m just a military doctor.

Eventually Leslie completed it and brought the pattern of the spirit mark. I take the paint and brush I brought from my room into Her Highness’ bedroom.

This paint is also used to draw magic circles, and it is the first thing that magicians are taught to prepare first. For the materials, you cannot get it unless you’re in the royal capital, if this is insufficient, we have to procure it –I may never have the opportunity to draw a spirit mark with my own hands again though.

“…Grass, the preparation is completed isn’t it? Soara, can you leave the room for a moment so he can keep his concentration?”

“Uh…. But Y-Your Highness…..”

“You don’t need to worry. From the reports I received, I can feel that he is reliable enough to be trusted. I believe in that intuition.”

“U-Understood. Grass-sama, I’m sorry that I doubted you…”

“Oh that’s nothing, it’s not unreasonable. It would be outrageous to have a man like me and Her Highness to be alone… but, can you trust me and leave it to me?”

“N-No… I, for my part I should have thought of Her Highness’ body first, but I only thought of my duties as her servant… I-I won’t take your time anymore. We believe in what Her Highness’ believes.”

Soara bows her head and leaves the room.

When the two of us are the only ones left, Her Highness slowly lowers the blanket that was placed around her chest.Read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com

“Y-Your Highness…I-I’ll draw it little by little, so you can just show me a portion…”

“…Then that would take a lot of time and effort. It will be better and faster if you draw while looking at the whole picture.”

It’s exactly as what Her Highness says –just by looking at a part of the drawing, I will be drawing while imagining the part that is not visible which will take time.

In the dimly lit room, she reveals her divine appearance and she looks at me with her emotionally-pressed eyes. ―I know that she’s strongly suppressing herself, I knew it because she could not hide it, the redness of her face.

“…I’ll leave it to you. I, Should I keep my eyes closed?”

Facing Her Highness, who’s full of resolve, I think I too should absolutely not waver. I replied with a nod and tell her to lie down.

The spirit mark drawn from her thigh to the shin is faint and broken. I take out the small pottery dish from my bag, put the paint on it and I then choose the finest of the several brushes I have.Translated by Yume Neiji

“If you feel ticklish, please tell me. You need to be relaxed for this you see…”

From now on, before the sky turns white, the procedure should be completed in about one and a half hour. As much as possible, I must hurry so that Her Highness can still take a rest.

When I started drawing, Her Highness’ did not move at all. However, she gently raised and lowered her chest, closed her eyes, and took care so that there would be no problem in drawing.

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

I feel like it’s still too early to say thank you. Until we overcome the situation this fortress is facing now, I can’t afford to relax.

“…I’m sorry, Grass-nii…”

Leslie apologizes while feeling embarrassed. Though I often don’t understand what she’s thinking, her figure that clearly shows her embarrassment and hesitation was very charming that I’m at lose for words.

―But before that and above all else, to make her gently notice the current situation we’re in, even though I only lived 3 years longer than her, I think it is necessary to follow up like an older person would.

“You don’t have to say sorry but… As expected, getting pushed down in a place like this, I would have been injured if I’m not a magician you know.”

“Uh….. I-I’m sorry… I always give trouble to Grass-nii… Kyaah!…”

After saying that much, she finally realized that she’s straddling me stark naked.

“…….”

When a person gets too perturbed, his voice won’t come out— the current Leslie is the proof of it. She who forgot to hide her assets, finally remembers to hide them using both hands. I myself closed my eyes and cover them.

“I-I didn’t see it….. No, I saw to some extent…. But, aren’t you a little too bold?”

“W-Wait for a while and keep your eyes closed……Until I say it’s ok, please……”

“Uh, I-I get it. You don’t have to panic.”

I keep my eyes closed until Leslie says it’s already alright. I didn’t listen to the rustling of the clothes, I talked to the spirits dwelling on the wooden things around me instead – “She’s one hasty girl alright”, says the senior lumber spirit. I replied, “Well, she’s usually calm…”, and we have such small talk.

“…Grass-nii, I’m already done changing. Y-You can get up now…”

“Ah… oh, you’re back as “Lendl-san”.”

―When I was allowed to get up and open my eyes, the figure of Leslie who changed into men’s clothing with bleach cloth properly coiled around her chest is in front of me.

“But without the interference from your air spirits, you’re still Leslie after all…”

“…I’m not hiding my mouth right now… Mouth is where people’s characteristics come out the most, so I have to hide it.”

“Oh, you’re right… Let’s talk about it once we return to our room. And also the part whether you have to continue being Lendl-san from now on.”

When I got up, Leslie hands my clothes to me. Being diligently taken care of like this and all the things Lendl-san did for me as a secretary until now, somehow I feel bad knowing that Leslie did all this for me.

“…We’ve been together for such a long time so I should have noticed it with your gestures or the like.”Translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“In the academy, the spirit of “air” was considered as a flop but I thought it’s different. It has the power to interfere with the air that is present everywhere. When people see or feel something, we feel it thru the air. Therefore, if I “change the air”, I can also be projected as a different person. I’m sorry, for keeping it a secret all this time.”

“No, you can’t help but to hide it. That magic, depending on how you use it… If there are people who think of using it for something like espionage activities, it will be troublesome if they started approaching you. From now on, it is better not to tell other people about this.”

Flop spirit users don’t have to perform their skills in front of teachers. Only elemental spirit users are required to show off their skills, evaluated and will be treated as the splendid pride of the academy –Well thanks to that custom, we were able conceal rather than expose the information about our spirits.

If one sees the “plant spirit” written in my unrated report card, anyone would think that I will be useless as a magician. The second queen probably sent me to Princess Astina, who compete for the throne with her own son the Prince, to become a burden to her.

If Leslie’s spirit is not unevaluated, for sure someone will keep tabs on her. A spirit that interfere with “air” –I had thought that it was similar to the spirit of wind but in reality it is a totally different spirit.

“…I didn’t know that Grass-nii’s magic could be used in battle. As a doctor, you studied a lot and you also excel at surgery… I thought Grass-nii, will be more unreliable.”

“Well, it can’t be help for you to think like that… You remember my specialty right though. Then again, if we find a tree that bear fruits somewhere in the future, let’s share them.”

“Yeah. If possible, I want a fig tree fruit… If not, then anything is fine as long as I can eat together with Grass-nii.”

Although I feel somewhat weird looking at the appearance of Leslie wearing glasses, I did not voice that out now. If I say something like “isn’t it better to remove your glasses?”, it will feel like I’m making passes on her.

“…I still can’t reveal my true identity inside this fortress. When the war recedes, can I go back to being Leslie again?”

“Why till that time? I think everyone would be surprised if we say that you dressed as a man due to some reason but Leslie, isn’t dressing as a man burdensome for you?”

“Nah… People who goes in and out of this fortress may know about my house too… If by any chance my house found out that I’m Grass-nii’s secretary, I’m sure they will come to bring me back.”Translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“…So it’s like that huh.”

The thorny road that my stepsister said was probably about this –that if she wants to follow me, she needs to live with a fake identity. But I don’t think that’s all of it. If she just needs to be someone else, pretending as a woman should also be enough…

Still, she should have reason for choosing to be a man. I should already know it but I’m confident that my intuition is bad. However, by working my brain cells to the limit, I finally find one answer.

“…So that it won’t be suspicious even if you’re in the same room as me… you dressed as a man to work as my secretary… is there also that?”

“………”

Leslie did not answer. I should be correct –she became my secretary and in order for her to be always with me without raising suspicion, she dressed up as a man.

“…That’s also a reason for it but… it’s not only that.”

“Eh… t-there’s still something else?”

“…Because everyone in this fortress are all woman… If Grass-nii shares a room with other people here… I thought that might happen so…”

With expression saying it’s very difficult to explain, Leslie says so. Just imagining something like that would have really been embarrassing for her –Her face turns red but she still told me the truth.Read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com

Certainly, the rooms in this fortress are limited so if I came alone, I might be in a shared room with someone else. Just like what I heard from my stepsister in advance, there may be many situations where the female soldiers will be conscious of me, and I also felt it actually.

“…That means, you came here as my watchdog. You’re really…”

“…I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. Just like how I’m in danger here, Leslie is now also in the battlefield and would be equally in danger too. That’s why I have to take responsibility and make sure to make you return safely.”Read at yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com

“Grass-nii… Thank you. I, I will work hard as your secretary.”

“Yeah, I’m counting on you. We’ll be busy from here on too, so let’s do things without going overboard.”

We both laugh and return to our room.

As we walk side by side, I remembered the time we spent together in the academy and even though she’s dressed as a man now –we didn’t walk next to each other that much.

What did Leslie think about coming here with me? I think it’s clear enough with our conversation just now.

But for now, above anything else as a military doctor and her as my secretary, I want us to fulfill these roles in this fortress. As we are walking, I’m wondering about which order should I break down this piling up problems…

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

Perhaps due to the prepared hot water for bathing even at midnight, the dressing room did not get cold and the air was warm and moist. Water drops coming from her wet hair flows to her white elbow and drips to her feet.

“…Uh, the spirit of the air, Earia… in response to my voice…..uh”

“W-Wait… I don’t know what you’re trying to do, but calm d….”

Don’t tell me… To me who saw her secret, she wants to use her power? ―With her towel covering the front of her body, she –Leslie heads on to shorten our distance and come closer in front of me.This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“Kuu…!”

I don’t know what to say and I can’t fight back either. The wooden drain board spreading on my feet serve as a cushion to my fall –Even so, my shock did not disappear at all, I hold my breath as I was pushed down.

“…Earia…to my body…. the air… uh…create a hazy vision instead…”

“…I see. Air spirit…..I didn’t see it at the Academy, but you used it don’t you?”

I spoke while looking up at Leslie straddled on top of me as she pressed my shoulders. ―She was just looking at me with wet hair on her face, her eyes displayed trepidation and she could no longer continue to chant her spell.

Even the towel that hides her body has already flown somewhere…. I have never seen her lose her composure to this extent. Up until now, it never happened before.

“It’s quite an amazing magic… I thought you are completely a man, that you are a different person. To change the impression of your voice, isn’t it difficult for the air spirit?”

I’m not familiar with anything other than my own specialty but voice occurs when the vibrations of the human vocal cords are transmitted to the air and become sounds. It is not strange for Leslie to be able to contract and interfere with the air spirits and change her voice. Even so, there was a limit as the pitch of the voice could not be lowered.

“…Why didn’t you come back a little later…?”

“I’m sorry. But Leslie, I left the sanitary building while you were sleeping and until I returned from Her Highness residence, it should have been quite a while…”

“Even so….a little more and….just a little…if you are just a little bit slower…”

“…..If that was the case, I’ll be left unaware of this for quite some time. But I will eventually notice it. I’ll realize it no matter how stupid I had been for not realizing anything until now.”

The force of the Leslie’s hand holding me down loosened up. She pulled her hand and tears spilled from her eyes.

“…Grass-nii…is not stupid… As it was the instruction from the Academy, I know I should absolutely obey… The headmaster also said so. That’s why as instructed to me… before Grass-nii goes…”

“So…. you consulted my stepsister of a way for you to go with me, right? Why did you do that? It’s not like I’ll never see you again.”

“…When you go to a battlefield, you won’t know what will happen… Just like today, many people died… If that happens to Grass-nii…. We’ll never again…”

She thought we could no longer meet. She speaks up until there and Leslie begins to cry without raising her voice.

She is always calm so I can’t grasp her entirely. She had better grades than me, but she similarly pulled a flop spirit and was alienated by the people around her —it’s not like we are licking each other’s wound. But for sure Leslie and Sven are people I can rely on.

―Those chosen by the flop spirits were unlucky since their birth.

―Hey, that person is taking care of the trees again. I wish he would just quit school and became a gardener.

―Grass Weed. Instead of being a magician, think about helping your father’s work. If there’s an opening for clerks at the Imperial House, I can write a letter of introduction for you.

If I didn’t enter the Academy to become a magician, I might have chosen my way of living like they have said. But since I entered the Magic Academy, I couldn’t give up my dream.

At first, as I was scorned and every time I was alienated, one of my emotions that would like to curse the world welled up. Because of my friends, I was able to endure being treated as a flop.This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

Even when my contracted spirit was denied and even if I was forced to fall into an existence who is just breathing in the academy, I could not give up.

I wasn’t afraid to die.

When you think that no one needs you and when you lost your dream, you will easily despair. If you look into the world with cold eyes, even to yourself or to others, only words that would make you down comes to mind.

It’s worse to stop and live in the bottom of the mud than to die.

I waited for Leslie who is still crying to calm down and look at me. Eventually, her moistened eyes shifted towards me. I remember when I first met Leslie. At that time, she looked at me like that, with a look of trepidation she still asked for something.

“…I had a dream.”

“…Dream… Didn’t you say you wanted to be a court magician…?”

“There’s that too. But before that… I wanted to be someone great as a magician, it’s a vague dream.”This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

Leslie doesn’t know what I want to say yet. However, her breathing gradually calms down as she seemed to be interested in it.

“….The knights who died today and those who died for the country so far…. Even if they had dreams of their own, they chose to protect the country before their own dream come true. But if they were able to survive…they would have been chasing that dream again.”

I was appointed as a military doctor of a fortress in the frontline. I accepted it firstly because I want to secure my seat as a court magician. I thought that a military doctor’s job was just for that…

Now it’s different. Coming to this fortress as a military doctor fulfilled one of my dreams. And it mustn’t end there –I can’t help but think of this kind of thing.

“I will watch until the end of this battle. I want to find what I can do until we no longer have to fight one day. I’ll also be glad to live in peace where there is no fear of death. I will look forward into the future where Leslie will marry one day. I don’t want to live and die without doing what I can, rather than that, I should do what I can here even if I don’t know when I’ll die.”This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“…Grass-nii… You knew about the matter in my house…?”

“…I don’t know everything. But…I know that you have the Duke’s bloodline. I’m sorry that I’ve kept my silence all this time. I’m not qualified to get angry at you for following me since I was lying even worse than you.”

When I told her the truth, I thought that I would lose everything or that my sin might never be forgiven.This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“…Such thing…..It’s not a lie. Grass-nii didn’t say anything for my sake. As for me, I was only thinking of myself… Even now, I-I just want to keep protecting my lies…”

“…Then, aren’t we the same? Maybe we were just thinking too much about it…”

At first, Leslie looked surprised.Translated by Yume Neiji

But maybe the meaning of “the same” comes through as she smiles broadly, it’s been a while since she smiled like that.

I can’t say anything to that smiling expression of hers. It was me who made her think so far ahead –the matter of me dying in the front line, she was much more scared of it than I am.

Such sentiment from her is just so warm. I am truly grateful but I wonder what I did to deserve it.

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

In the Isle Rose Fortress, there’s a waterway leading from the canal. It is used as the fortress’ water. There are also wells that were dug deeply and the fresh water is used for making meals.This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

Originally, the wells were used by the local residents in a small village but it was bought when the fortress was built. With that money in hand, the original residents moved to Wendel town near the fortress.

One out of the two wells dug down has a hot spring which is the reason why the price of the well was high. The great advantage of those knights staying in the first floor lodgings of the fortress is the ease of using the hot water.

The basement of the fortress is divided into several areas, one of which is a bathhouse used by executives. I also think that this is a consideration only for women’s fortresses –even at the time of war, sanitation is directly linked to a knight’s morale, so it is good that facilities are in place.

Well, hot springs and wells do not always spring infinitely, so we can only wipe our bodies normally… At the academy, once in a while, I go to public baths in town, but that is not the case here.This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

When I start to recall the things a while back, my friends come to mind. I think Sven will be fine because he’s a tough guy, but… is Leslie doing well at the academy?

It’s worrisome when it comes to Leslie’s home. As an illegitimate child of Duke Lenklus –I think Leslie herself does not know about it, I just happened to know that fact.

My father works as a secretary in a Noble House and my mother is the seventh daughter of a Viscount family. Originally, there is a large difference in status with Leslie, and it is not a relationship where they can interact. The reason why I got to know her and became known as “Grass-nii” can be traced back when we first met.

By the time I entered the Magic Academy at the age of eight, the teachers weren’t so strict on me because of the fact that I hold a noble bloodline –that expectation was betrayed during the day of my Spirit Selection Ceremony though. But in the first place, there were many children with noble bloodline so I was not particularly favored.

However, I still have a noble bloodline. At the time that Leslie entered the school, my mother’s parents had a connection with Duke Lenklus. Professor Hendrick, the vice principal then summoned me.This is translated by Yume Neiji

“To prevent the other students from harming Leslie Li Lenklus, I would like you to cooperate as one of the personnel who will guard her within the Academy.”

It was a request for me to strictly watch over Leslie during the outdoor school where new students and seniors form a group. The Lenklus family selected few other capable students with noble bloodline and with this, Leslie spent all her time in the outdoor school under the supervision of multiple people, perhaps she’s completely not aware of it.

At that time, I was in a different team. Something may have happened because Leslie got lost in the forest despite the strict guarding instructions.

Someone needs to look for Leslie. At first I thought that it was weird for me to go out and help a younger girl student who I hadn’t talked to yet. But I didn’t hesitate. As everyone rushed into the darkening forest, I was confident that I could find Leslie in the dark forest.

When I think about it, it may have been the sign that I would be contracting a plant spirit… I felt that the spirits of the trees that exist in the nature told me where Leslie was.

“Why are you here?”

When I finally found her, she was at the root of a big tree forming like a den. I reach out to her and she looked up at me. Her eyes told me that no one believes in her.

Somehow, I hesitated to tell her the truth. If I told her, “I was asked by a teacher”, I could imagine what kind of expression the girl in front of me would look like. I thought hard but I didn’t get an answer so at that time, I just said, “I don’t know”.

How did I get Leslie back then? I can’t remember clearly but I piggybacked her as she sprained her foot.This is translated by Yume Neiji

…Until I tell her the truth, I won’t die. So there’s nothing to worry about.

I received instructions from the deputy head teacher and I even know Leslie’s ancestry. I can’t just keep my silence all the time –someday, I should receive punishment from her.

With the facade that I don’t know anything, I enjoyed being called “Grass-nii” and I felt that the time I spent with Leslie, who also had a similar spirit, was cozy.

All women with Lenklus bloodline are destined to have a political marriage. So it’s not unusual for Leslie to do so while I’m away from the school –it is known that all nobles are to be married by the age of eighteen.

“U-Uhm…..Grass-sensei?”

“Oh!…… S-Sorry, I stopped in the hallway.”

I noticed that a woman with short hair is standing in front of me. I haven’t remembered all of the medic’s names yet –this time, I must remember them.

“Ah, you’re going to take a bath right? In the bathroom, there is a note “Men in use”. We made that note for Grass-sensei and your secretary.”

“Thank you very much for your concern”

“N-No, likewise… I’m very grateful for Sensei’s help… W-Well then.”

Somehow she looked flustered and the woman hurries to go –but that’s maybe because she saw a postcard with the motto, “Be quiet in the hallway”, from which she quickly walked away.This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

The people in this fortress are all hard-working people who values discipline. There are different type of people and so far, my social relationship with them is improving, I haven’t had any dispute too. Is it okay to think that I am doing well?

Because I was the only man, I thought I might be quite isolated but it really helps a lot with Lendl-san here.

With that in mind, I open the door with the “Men in use” tag and enter the dressing room.

“Uhm, Lendl-san. I’m going in…”

 “Uh……!?”

―No one else can be there other than “Lendl-san”.

There is even the note used by men. Lendl-san who came with me should definitely be a man even if he took off his hat and glasses. But when Lendl-san used magic to protect me from the Goblin’s arrow, I didn’t ask “what type of spirit it is.” If the power of that spirit can make “Lendl-san” lie to me….

“……Grass, s-sensei…..”

That’s how “she” called me… For a moment, I couldn’t connect her to someone I know.

At the age of twelve, she was still an innocent child. But three years later, I knew she changed but I still couldn’t understand how much she changed.

The cloth used for wiping the body unreliably hides her chest. The long wet hair hangs on her shoulder, and she may have concealed it by devising her clothes –her slender, delicate curve.This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

Everything in front of my eyes showed that it’s impossible for “Lendl-san” to be a man!

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---

Apologies everyone, I was so busy this past two days that I was not able to translate. (>▂<) For those reading Homeless Tensei, I am sorry that I will be posting chapters for Hagure and Kajiya instead, they have shorter chapters so I can finish one today. For Homeless, I will try to complete at least two chapters till Sunday. Thank you for understanding.

---

What should I talk about first? Above anything else, Her Highness’ spirit mark that was interrupted in the middle should be completed.

After doing that, I can bring Her Highness to the sacred tree. I think there is a high possibility that there will be a contract between Her Highness and the spirit of the sacred tree, though this is not a certainty.

Usually, performing spirit selection ceremony will allow one to contract with the spirits in the spirit world. With that power, one can interfere with the spirits in this world… For many generations, the royal shrine maiden had a direct contract with the sacred tree.

At the very least, I did study about the contracts with spirits but I don’t know everything because even a teacher candidate at the academy can only teach a small part of it.

However, there are some laws regarding the spiritual mark. There is also a big difference in design between men and women, but with half of it drawn, it is not that difficult to finish the other half though.

“…Grass, what’s the problem? With that troubled expression…”

“N-No…. About that, although it is presumptuous of me to say this… First, in order for Your Highness to be able to control your magical power, it is necessary to complete the “spirit mark” that is partly drawn on you.”

“Uh…”This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

Raquel-san and the two maids were so surprised that they can’t help but raise their voice –I knew they would, but if I beat around the bush, the conversation wouldn’t go any further.

“To my body… e-even to those parts?”

“Yes, it’s been quite a while since it was drawn, so some parts have faded… The Spirit Mark is like a contract for contracting with a spirit and exercising its power. The fact that it is drawn means that Your Highness was scheduled to undergo the ritual of “spirit selection ceremony” and it was interrupted for some reason.”

Her Highness listened to my story without any question. As I am in front of those eyes, I feel that she can see through my inner most thoughts and I feel restless.

Drawing the spirit mark also means that I have to look at her body again. At the academy, taking the emotions of the students into consideration, other than those parts where the spirit mark will be drawn, the other parts are covered with cloth and the method for drawing the spirit mark is done part by part –Still, since I have to draw on the entire upper body, it also includes the parts that should not be seen normally…

“I understand. Then, would you please draw that mark? If it’s now, I think it will be convenient because I’m not wearing anything under this blanket.”

“…B-But…”This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“Just say it. Why are you being flustered….? It is Her Highness will. It’s better to calm yourself then draw.”

“N-No, if there is someone who is good at drawing, it is okay to ask that person to do it instead. There is a drug that makes the paint temporarily visible to anyone. Of course, it does not harm the human body.”

“I-If it’s like that… Karin is very good at drawing, so we can leave it to her… B-But, I think it would be better if Grass-sensei will draw it directly so as to avoid any mistake…..”

Soara is quite panicked –In contrast, Karin is calm. Perhaps, with that personality, she is not overly afraid in regards to Her Highness.

“…Grass, you’re worried for me isn’t it? Alright, Karin…can you draw it as Grass teaches you? I think your painting is good and the letters are also beautiful, I’m sure you can do well.”This is translated by Yume Neiji (yumeineijiworks.wordpress.com)

“……Certainly!……”

Karin replies with a very soft voice. I don’t know because she hadn’t spoken for a long time, but her voice is refreshing and even if it’s a whisper like speech, I heard it clearly.

“…..Kindly tell me what to do….. I will do exactly as Doctor-sama says…”

“I-I understand. First, on a paper, I need to you to write the spirit mark on Her Highness’ body. For that purpose….”

“You don’t have to be reserved to me, Karin is also a girl…”

Her Highness says so and looks at me. It is like she’s saying, “What are you waiting for?”.

“…Grass, can you go out for a bit?”

“Uh….S-Sorry. Then, I will explain how to draw it and go out after.”

I asked Karin to make an exact copy of it, taught her how to draw it then I left the room. Sitting on the chair outside, I take a breath. It takes a long time to copy the figures so I was told that it would be okay to leave.

I have a serious misconception –Her Highness is human too, I didn’t realize the obvious because I think of Her Highness as a transcendental…

….It’s normally embarrassing, but she listened to me because it is necessary. I also have to be more sensitive…. That should have been obvious!

I feel restless while waiting. Looking out the window, the moon floats in the night sky –For a moment, I thought of going back to my own room to regain my composure.

I yearned to live like a plant, but I couldn’t do it at all. I must see to it that today is the last time that I will be disturbed seeing a woman’s body –with that in mind, I walk through the quiet corridor and left Her Highness’ residence.

◆◇◆

I head to the medic’s residence and go to our room. I opened the door with my key and went inside –it seemed that Lendl-san is back, the door to his bedroom was open.

But he doesn’t seem to be in the room. If so, is he taking a hot shower?

Since it is a shared bathroom, there is no need to wait in line. I also have to wash my body. When I think about it, I didn’t even have time to wash my body –a day’s worth of dirt was on my clothes and I also can’t hide the sweaty smell.

I take some clothes for me to change into and head to the bathroom. There will be a problem if there’s is a woman inside but if Lendl-san is the one inside, then the other soldiers won’t make a fuss.

---

Previous ⚜ Table of Contents ⚜ Next

---