Published: July 3, 2025
In the Naitorei Kingdom's Royal Capital, Crystal Palace.
Originally, the name of the Royal Castle was 'Crystal Palace', but before anyone realized it, it became the name of the capital, and the Royal Castle was simply referred to as 'Palace'.
True to its name, the Royal Castle features windows embedded with crystals, making it a dazzling building.
In the kingdom, various local lord manors also have glass panes fitted in their windows.
As a grand castle of a large nation, the 'Palace' uses a wealth of crystals and glass, and the interior is always illuminated by magical lights, attracting admirers among foreign envoys and resident ambassadors alike.
In one corner of this Royal Castle lies the headquarters of the Royal Knight Order.
Currently, there are a total of five hundred knights belonging to the Royal Knight Order, but about two hundred of them are stationed at the headquarters, while the rest serve at knight barracks and training grounds within the royal capital.
Most of the knights in the Royal Knight Order are heads of noble families, heirs, or younger sons... those who carry noble blood.
However, there are clear distinctions between 'heads', 'heirs', and 'younger sons', which sometimes manifest as blatant discrimination.
Even if one simply calls them 'nobles', there are various types.
The top of the Royal Knight Order, the knight commander, is Count Bacala Wear.
He is the head of the Wear family.
With a grand physique, he is said to unleash a magnificent sword technique that is easy to imagine given his stature.
Originally the second son of the Wear family, he ascended to the title of count ten years ago when his father, the head, and his older brother, the heir, were killed in the 'Great War'.
From there, he used the inherited wealth to bribe various people... and finally succeeded in seizing the position of knight commander.
Of course, even though he gained the position through a considerable amount of bribery, he was originally one of the top knights in the kingdom.
Though it is said he has significantly declined in strength since becoming knight commander, today he was conducting sword training in a corner of the knight headquarters.
“Commander, Count Peer Gynt is here.”
“Hmm? Did we have an appointment?”
The deputy rushed over to inform Bacala of the guest's arrival.
“No, it was not scheduled.”
“I see. I’ll be back shortly. Have some drinks prepared.”
Saying that, Bacala wiped his sweat and headed toward the room.
“Count Peer Gynt, I hope I haven't kept you waiting.”
As Bacala entered the reception room, he immediately greeted the visitor.
“Not at all, Commander. I barged in unexpectedly, so no need to worry.”
Count Peer Gynt is known for his ill reputation even within the court.
However, he is simultaneously known as someone who can resolve most matters if sufficient money is offered, making such individuals valued by certain people in every era and society.
Of course, they are also detested like poisonous snakes by another group.
It goes without saying that Bacala received help from him while climbing to his current position.
“So, what brings you here today?”
After the deputy prepared tea for Bacala and exited the room, Peer Gynt began.
“Well, I actually have a favor to ask of you, Commander.”
With that, Count Peer Gynt placed a bag filled with something on the edge of the desk and began to speak.
Most people would likely understand that it contains a sum of money.
“As a matter of fact, the third son of Baron Washer is looking for employment. He asked if he could possibly join the Royal Knight Order.”
“I see.”
“What do you think, could you use your influence to make this happen?”
“The member slots are already filled.”
When Bacala said this, Count Peer Gynt produced another bag similar to the one before and placed it on the desk's edge.
“I am fully aware of that. I am asking you to make an exception...”
“Even so...”
As Bacala said this, Peer Gynt retrieved yet another bag and placed it on the desk.