Chapter 86

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It seems that San-Just left his country because he was falsely accused after exposing corruption.

When he came to the empire relying on Viktor, whom he had been close to through music, he was surprised to find himself in the remote Kikunoi territory.

So, San-Just... It's hard to call him that, but since he says to call him by his name, I'll do that. Louis was isolated from other nobles because he believed that education was necessary for commoners and held enlightenment ideals.

He's the type who believes that humans are inherently rational and good...

"Hmm, if that's the case, I think we probably won't get along. I'm a believer in the theory of innate depravity."

"Innate depravity...?"

"Yep. Humans are born with only instincts, and kindness and rationality are acquired through education later. That's why education is important."

If humans are inherently kind and considerate, then babies wouldn't cry at night or be breech.

Kindness and rationality are all nurtured through experiences and learning after birth, which is why people need to keep learning until they die.

"Exactly. That's why I want to spread education in the territory."

"Why do you want to make me sound so good? I have something I want to do, and to do it, I need to raise the literacy rate of the people, boost the economy, and ensure that everyone has enough financial, mental, and time resources."

"Otherwise, art can't flourish."

"Exactly."

I don't need to be called a wise ruler or a prodigy. Adding unnecessary filters to human relationships just makes the damage worse when things go wrong.

"If you still want to hire me, then 'I'm fine with it' is enough. I don't need you to bow and beg like that."

But I really wanted someone capable as a magistrate.

Someone who could get my father's approval, even if he wasn't under my father's influence.

But how do I sell this to my father?

Maybe I should ask Mr. Romanov.

But my father knows that Mr. Romanov had my mother appointed as an auditor, so he might be wary of Mr. Romanov's recommendation.

What other options do I have?

As I was pondering, my eyes met Viktor's smirking face.

"Master, when Viktor has that look, it means he's up to something. I think it's better to just ask him normally."

"Chen-chan, ni-ni, I'm in a bind. Please help me!"

Regulus lowered his head so hard it almost hit mine, and because we were holding hands, Sō also bowed.

Viktor nodded happily.

"That's right, A-tan. It's not just Alyosha who can help in that area! I'm an empire-recognized hero and the leading court musician. I know the noble society as well as Alyosha, so you can rely on me more!"

"Then, can I ask you for help with this matter?"

"Of course! I can find someone in my network who can help your father. I'll recommend San-Just to them."

"Thank you!"

As I thanked him, my cheeks were pinched. I've lost a lot of weight recently, so it hurt a bit.

Viktor, in a good mood, clapped his hands.

It seemed this matter was settled, and the young ladies who had been left out and the three young men who had been looking gloomy earlier now looked sharp and focused.

"Alright, A-tan. Let's get to the main topic."

"Ah, yes. The name for the young ladies' group, right?"

"Right, something cute would be nice."

Cute, huh?

But the names I find cute, like "Pony-chan" or "Tara-chan," would probably be rejected as "a bit off."

For a cute female idol group, I imagine something sparkly.

When I think of sparkly and feminine, the only word that comes to mind is "Jenne."

I remember there was a great heroine in a country where young ladies were called "Jenne."

I think it was...

"La Pucelle... It means 'maiden' in another world. How about this?"

As I asked, they each repeated the word as if savoring it.

Then, the young ladies formed a circle and discussed it quietly. They raised their voices again, saying, "Hey, hey, oh!"

Then, they faced me, Regulus, and Sō on the stage.

"Cheerful and lively, Rin-hana!"

"Always giving it our all, Shuné!"

"Healing those who work hard, Ryunnu!"

"Ponytail is a symbol of courage, Stella!"

"Striving to be pure, kind, and serious, Misora!"

They lined up, extending their arms, and their names and catchphrases made them seem like real idols.

Then, all together, they said, "We are the Kikunoi Girls Choir 'La Pucelle'!"

If this were a TV show, there would be flashy lights and smoke behind them as everyone applauded reflexively.

"Great, I think this will leave a lasting impression!"

"Mr. Viktor, we'll go with this!"

"Thank you, Master!"

"We'll do our best!"

"Thank you...!"

It's wonderful to see the cute young ladies giggling.

As the atmosphere became lively, Romeo, Tybalt, and Mercutio knelt before me with serious expressions.

"What's wrong?"

"...We're sorry."

"Huh?"

I tilted my head at their bowed heads and trembling shoulders. Did I do something they needed to apologize for?

"We're ashamed of ourselves..."

"We only thought about ourselves. Even after seeing that video, we still thought it was the world's fault that we were deceived, and that we weren't to blame."

"But when we saw that the young master, who hasn't even lived as long as we have, is thinking so much about others..."

"I'm not that good a person, you know."

My response to this trio is also setting a precedent.

If someone in the world, like them, unintentionally causes a major problem, they shouldn't be killed without question. Instead, they should be encouraged to reflect and receive necessary education before being returned to the territory.

If such a precedent is set, even if Kikunoi's people cause an incident outside, their lives might be spared.

After I explained this, the three, who had shaved their beards and looked more presentable due to better nutrition, showed even more determined expressions.

"To repay your kindness, we'll achieve good results in the martial arts tournament!"

"Those young girls are working hard, so we will too!"

"Watch us, we're reborn!"

Oh, it's good that they're motivated.

Then, I should also try my best. I think that's why Viktor brought me here.

"Then, I'll make the costumes for La Pucelle's performance at the competition and the outfits for the three of you for the martial arts tournament."

"Of course, A-tan. You're so perceptive, it's a big help."

Indeed.

The young ladies cheered, "Kyaa!" at Viktor's smiling face.

The trio, still kneeling, clenched their fists and spoke again.

"Please give us a name."

"A name...?"

"A party name. When we take on missions, we announce our group name."

"Ah..."

Romeo's words were echoed by Tybalt and Mercutio.

I want them to become novice adventurers.

"How about 'Star'? You're going to become adventurers, so it fits."

"Estrella..."

The three murmured the word, their eyes shining with determination.

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