Published: January 17, 2026
After passing through two towns, we finally entered the marquisate of Rosso. The destination, Tribute, was just ahead.
“...I’m sorry for all the trouble,” said Silhet, the captain, just as we were about to arrive. Seeing the weary expression on his face, I gave a wry smile and waved a hand dismissively.
“No, don’t worry about it. But if you ever leave the Marquis Fertio family, Seato Village will always welcome you.”
Half-joking, half-serious, I said this. Silhet gave a troubled smile and shook his head.
“…To be honest, I almost want to go to Lord Van’s side right now. But our family was appointed knights by Jarpa during my father’s generation…”
“You’re very loyal.”
“That’s only natural for a knight. Who would trust a knight who easily changes masters?”
“Oh, that’s cool.”
I praised Silhet’s knightly spirit, and he gave an embarrassed smile. The knights of the Marquis Fertio family, who have been fighting on the front lines for over ten years, are highly trained and filled with talented knights. Their loyalty is remarkable as well. It almost feels like a waste that they are currently following Yard and Sesto around.
“I think Brother Yard and Lord Sesto should hire adventurers as bodyguards. Since the relationship with the Yelinetta Kingdom has changed, nothing will probably happen in the Fertio Marquisate for a while.”
When I said that, Silhet nodded slightly but shared his own opinion.
“…Yes. Since the knight order suffered heavy losses, we should focus more on training newcomers. However, I believe Jarpa is concerned about the positions of Brother Yard and Lord Sesto. This mission might be partly to regain His Majesty’s trust, but above all, I think it’s intended to broaden the horizons of Yard and Sesto—to have them witness firsthand the rule of Rosso Marquisate, a historically significant marquisate called a Grand Marquisate, and the capital city, the heart of the kingdom. Most importantly, to see the rapidly rising Lord Van’s work up close…”
When Silhet fell silent, I couldn’t help but applaud.
“…That’s amazing. You’re skilled, good at teaching swordsmanship, and have a broad perspective. You should aim to become knight commander. Why don’t you really join us?”
I said with a smile. Silhet gave a wry chuckle and shook his head.
“You’re overestimating me.”
He said humbly, but I meant every word. With many talented people like him, I felt the Marquis Fertio family was in good hands. I hoped Yard and Sesto would talk more with knights like him.
While I was thinking this, we arrived at Tribute. Sesto still seemed to be following, but he wouldn’t participate in the meeting with the Fiesta Kingdom emissary. Well, since he held no noble title, that was only natural.
As soon as we arrived in Tribute, we headed straight to Rosso’s place, and to my surprise, we were granted an audience immediately. It wasn’t in a formal setting but rather a reception room that looked comfortable and relaxed.
Rosso’s dark silver hair swayed as he greeted me with the same dignified and charming smile I remembered from before.
“Oh, it’s been a while. Sir Van, have you been well?”
“Long time no see! I’ve been busily remodeling my territory! Your Excellency, I’m glad to see you’re doing well!”
“Hahaha! I’m glad to see you again, Sir Van. Now then, we’re scheduled to meet with the Fiesta Kingdom emissary tomorrow at noon. After a short rest, let’s share information.”
“Thank you very much!”
After that conversation with Rosso, I returned to town, where Sesto, who had hardly spoken until then, finally opened his mouth.
“…How can you talk so naturally with that Rosso Marquis?”
Sesto muttered with a tone of surprise and perhaps disbelief. I tilted my head and looked at him.
“Huh? Marquis Rosso is very kind, you know?”
I answered honestly, but Sesto gave me a look as if he had seen something unbelievable. I realized he was intimidated by the dignity of Rosso, who is called a Grand Marquis. Well, it’s understandable; ordinary nobles make one nervous because saying something rude could be dangerous. He probably thinks about what would happen if he caught their attention.