Chapter 46

"Albert, I think you know, but I didn't just come here to relay his words."

Albert, with a serious expression, said, "Right now, in the castle, a decoding team has been formed, mobilizing magicians and clerks. They are frantically deciphering ancient documents by turning the great library upside down."

"The aftermath of the demon incident, I see."

I had thought that a little investigation into the relationship between the demons and the Moonlight Temple would be enough... but it seems to have become a much bigger issue.

"That's right. I'm better at theoretical studies than practical magic, so I voluntarily joined the research. It seems certain that the Moonlight Temple contains something quite dangerous. There are also traces of correspondence sent outside the city regarding the research on the interdimensional stone."

"To the outside, huh. Does that mean the demon has allies?"

"Is it okay to tell you such things?"

"Well, I haven't mentioned any specifics, and even if I did, it wouldn't change anything. The king might also approach you, and actually, this isn't the main topic. But I'd appreciate it if you kept what I told you confidential. I'm also trying to build a relationship with you."

Albert put his index finger in front of his mouth and smiled.

Hmm. For Albert... it's a warning. I think it's not just out of kindness, considering he's looking for capable people.

"Then, what is the main topic?"

"It seems that some members of the knight corps have a grudge against you. I thought it would be better to let you know."

"Considering that the prince also mentioned it, I should be careful, right?"

"Oh, you knew? Then maybe it was unnecessary?"

"No, it's not."

Celia couldn't infiltrate the castle either, as the risk was too high. I stopped her. So, I only know the surface-level information about the main members and their relationships. Without that level of information, it's hard to make any assumptions. If Prince Albert can provide support, the background will become clearer.

"Is the situation around the knight corps changing?"

"There are talks about forming an exploration team of knights and soldiers to delve into the labyrinth. The kingdom wants to find a way to enter the sealed Moonlight Temple. Both the security forces and the knight corps didn't have a chance to shine during the previous demon incident, so they want to redeem themselves."

"I see..."

The knight corps delving into the labyrinth. The reason Chester, a promising member of Gregg's group, is targeting me... Could it be because I defeated the demon and explored the labyrinth, making me a business rival?

If Chester's behavior is as others describe, it's probably intentional. For example, if his goal is to make me resent him by using his credibility, people around me might think I'm slandering him to bring him down.

Considering that Gregg is well-liked by superiors but disliked by subordinates, I think Chester is of the same type. He might look down on me because I'm a subordinate. From the perspective of the knight corps, I'm already close to the magician corps.

However, the issue is the reason for his resentment. He wouldn't act so openly just because of that. What does he expect from such behavior?

"Well, as a member of the dragon knight corps, I feel a bit embarrassed."

"Why is that?"

"Well, there's no place for flying dragons in the labyrinth."

—Ah, I see. I understand the reason.

"Was there any talk about my flying technique in the palace?"

"Um, that—ah. I see."

Prince Albert is quick to understand. He seemed to grasp what I meant just from that.

If I can fly, and I engaged in aerial combat, then if the magician corps can do the same, the sky won't be their exclusive domain. At least, the disadvantage of being targeted from above by demons will be eliminated for magicians as well.

Furthermore, there's the possibility that I might be employed by the palace.

It's a clear reason. Essentially, it's about protecting their vested interests.

I didn't defeat the demon for that reason, but explaining it wouldn't change anything, and even if they understood, the situation wouldn't change.

"There were also voices asking for the disclosure of your flying technique. However, the king rejected it to avoid losing capable talent or causing resentment by forcing the disclosure of secret techniques."

King Melvin, huh.

"That's all about control and experience. I'm not doing anything special, just what I've seen."

"Heh. That seems to be the case. So, the logic is understood, but... That's how it feels. Magicians who can't work with ancient documents are struggling to divide roles, using levitation and shields, or trying to manage with and without incantations. When it comes to combat, they are at a loss."

Despite the high importance, the logic is simple, so it's not worth paying for the information. If they get it for free, it might cause resentment, so they decided to do it themselves. It's uncertain when magicians capable of aerial combat will appear.

"Hmm, I don't think there are no capable magicians at all?"

"Old Riccard managed it. He wasn't used to three-dimensional movement and ended up vomiting, but he managed."

Albert shrugged.

...I see.

"Then, what does the prince hope to receive from me in exchange for this information?"

"I don't think I provided much useful information."

"No, it was very helpful, and I understand that you were trying to help me. I think I should return the favor."

"Um, for me, just getting to know you is enough. ...Oh, right. I have a friend named Alfred who aspires to be a magic technician."

...Hmm?

"With your magic control ability, I think you could do some interesting things. If you don't mind, could you help him out when he comes to see you?"

"...Understood. I promise."

I almost smiled wickedly, knowing about his double life, but I managed to hold back.

However, I see. So that's his approach. I would have preferred a more straightforward confrontation, but I know Albert's true intentions and what he aims for.

I glanced at Marlene and Ophelia, who were chatting and laughing freely with Grace and Ashley.

...Well, it's fine. I guess Albert hasn't trusted me that much yet.

After thanking Albert and parting ways, I returned to the terrace on the second floor of the guest house and encountered Chester.

"Theodore, you won the individual tournament earlier and were making the rounds to greet the guests."

He smiled.

"Is that so?"

I don't want to deal with unnecessary complications, and I came here to clarify my position. I'll have a straightforward conversation with Chester.

"Um, would you have some time to talk with me, Sir Chester?"

Chester's eyes widened slightly as he looked at me, then he raised the corners of his mouth meaningfully.

"Me? Sure. I've finished my rounds, and I'm currently watching the ground dragon races, so I don't have a turn for a while. I also wanted to talk to the demon-slaying hero without any interruptions."

"Is there an empty room or something around here?"

"There's an underground training facility in the knight's tower for rainy days. How about there?"