Chapter 10

After I was called, I followed Ines and was led to a place that resembled a courtyard within the mansion. No one else was in sight.

"Is this place alright?"

Ines suddenly knelt on one knee before me—

and bowed her head, placing one hand on the ground.

"…First, I would like to apologize for my rudeness. My attitude earlier was not befitting of someone who should be grateful to you, Lord Linneburg. I must have made you feel uncomfortable, as if I was sizing you up. Please forgive me as I am now."

Ines bowed deeply, almost touching the ground.

Her long blonde hair spread out on the stone floor.

"No, I'm not bothered by it. Please don't worry so much."

I had thought she would scold me or something, but…

to be apologized to instead.

However, I don't recall doing anything that warrants such an apology.

Her reaction to my words and actions earlier was a bit concerning, but I feel like I must have done something impolite.

I still don't fully understand the culture here.

Actually, I would be happy if you could tell me what I did wrong…

"I don't recall doing anything that warrants such an apology. Please, stand up."

At my words, Ines straightened her body and slowly stood up.

"…I see. I appreciate your acceptance of my apology. I will correct my rudeness. However, our job is to protect the Creus family from all dangers. This takes priority over everything else. I hope you understand that entertaining guests is a secondary concern."

"Protect the family from danger?"

Now that I think about it, she was wearing a heavy armor over a skirt that looked like a maid's uniform, which seemed completely unsuitable for housework.

So, that means—

"I see… you're not a maid, then."

When I asked her, she blinked in surprise.

"…I haven't introduced myself yet. I am Ines Harne. I belong to the direct combat regiment of the Creus family and serve as the deputy commander."

So, she wasn't a maid after all.

And she's a deputy commander of something.

I don't quite understand, but it sounds impressive.

"Also, since my childhood, I have been given the nickname 'Divine Shield' and have been entrusted with the role of protecting Lord Linneburg. Although I am currently away from this duty for certain reasons—originally, it was my responsibility to protect Lord Linneburg with my life. You saved his life, and for that, I am truly grateful."

Then, she looked me straight in the eye and said,

"Lord Linneburg is someone I must protect with my life. Saving his life is as good as saving my own. I want to show my sincere gratitude."

Ines placed her right hand on her silver breastplate and bowed slightly.

It wasn't a big gesture, but I could feel her sincerity.

It seemed like she really meant it when she said Linne was more important than her life.

"From now on, I will do my best to support you. If you need help, just let me know."

That's really dramatic.

I was just at the scene when a bull was rampaging.

But I'll accept the sentiment.

…Otherwise, who knows what else she might impose on me.

"Sure, I'll ask for your help if I need it."

Ines showed a slightly gentle smile at my answer, but quickly returned to a stern expression.

"However—let me make one thing clear. Your attitude earlier. While it seems to be acceptable with Lord Linneburg, your behavior in the audience chamber was excessive. Casually calling him 'Lyn' and acting so familiar is not normally allowed."

…I see.

Now I understand why she was giving me such a stern look.

She calls him 'Lord Linneburg.'

So, she probably wants me to call him that too.

"This time, it's fine. But if this continues, even the rudeness that has been overlooked will no longer be tolerated. Especially in front of other retainers, it's best to avoid it."

I called him 'Lyn' because he asked me to, but it seems I should use the longer form in this house.

Such cultural nuances are hard to understand unless someone tells me.

"Thanks for the warning."

"That's our duty as retainers—to warn outsiders about such things… I wanted to make sure I said that."

But, did she really stop me just to say that?

The people in this house are really meticulous.

"Also, I want to remember the name of my benefactor. If it's not too much trouble, could you tell me your name?"

With that, Ines smiled slightly again.

I hadn't told her my name yet.

Today seems to be a day when I'm often asked for my name.

"Me? I'm Noll."

"…Noll…?"

Ines's smile vanished instantly.

…What's wrong?

"…Did I say something that bothered you?"

"No… it's fine. It's my issue. …I'm sorry, but I need to excuse myself here."

What's going on?

Did she suddenly feel unwell?

Ines walked away quickly without showing her face.

But just as I thought I could finally go back and take a bath, I was called from behind again.

"Hey, are you leaving already? Before you go, could you spare me a moment— I really want to see the skills of our hero."

A man with a spear emerged from the shadows.

I hadn't seen him, but I could sense he had been nearby.

I think his name was Gil…?

No, that's not it…

…Right, Albert.

What does he want me to do?

"What do you mean by 'spare me a moment'?"

"Well, it's a practical training session, a mock battle, you could say."

"A mock battle, huh."

This man is probably a soldier hired by this house, and I'm curious about the kind of training he does.

Alright, this is a good opportunity.

I don't know how much of a match I'll be for him, but I'll give it a try.

"Sure, I'll do it."

"The training ground is nearby. Follow me."

So, I followed the spear-wielding man, Albert—no, Harbert, to the training ground.