I was reincarnated as the carefree duke’s second son, and somehow, my random remarks got me treated like a hero
After the entrance ceremony, we headed to the Eltor family’s mansion prepared for us in the academy city.
For those from other countries or commoner backgrounds, dormitories are provided. However, since I’m from the Empire and my family is wealthy, I’ve been given a mansion slightly smaller than our family home.
Well, it’s the same mansion where my older brother Eric used to live, so it’s perfect.
“Brid Slayer Harkens! What did you mean by that earlier statement?”
As we left the auditorium where the entrance ceremony was held, someone was shouting loudly in the schoolyard.
“Silver hair is quite rare, isn’t it?”
“Yes, that’s a symbol of royalty.”
By now, it’s become the default for them to cling to my arms.
In the direction of my gaze, the prince of the Kingdom was confronting Prince Brid. These two, destined by the novel, clash like oil and water.
The silver-haired, silver-eyed prince looks cool on the outside but is fiery on the inside.
He’s likely opposing Prince Brid’s arrogant imperialism.
“Ice Defy Minty. Do you have a problem with something?”
“I do! This academy is a neutral city. Stop acting like the Empire is superior!”
“Hmph, but the Empire is superior. What’s the issue? Besides, the Empire will eventually conquer everything. We will unify this continent. If the Kingdom submits to me, I’ll treat you favorably.”
“Don’t be ridiculous! No one wants unification! Each country and race has its own identity. No one desires to be ruled by you!”
Well, they both have their points, and I can’t say either is entirely wrong, but I don’t think it’s necessary for a prince and a crown prince to argue like this in public.
Besides, the only ones who can stop them are those of equal status—like the prince of the Beastfolk Kingdom, the princess of the Elves, or the princess of the Merfolk. There aren’t many princes and princesses of the same age, are there?
I doubt they’ll step in to stop them, so what should we do?
“It’s not about what others want. I will achieve it. That’s all.”
“Your way of thinking is wrong!”
“Then what will you do? Challenge me to a duel and kill me?”
“I won’t do that. This academy is a place for exchange. I’ll definitely change your mind! Excuse me.”
While I was watching, their argument seemed to have ended.
But it seems history is already starting to move.
This clash between the two of them will develop into future conflicts.
Brid, the Mad King, who believes in his own power and aims to unify the continent.
And Ice, the Silver Hero, who opposes him.
Their encounter marks the beginning of a tragedy.
“Hm? You, what are you staring at?”
Ah, crap. I was staring too long.
Well, it can’t be helped. His rank is higher than mine in the Empire.
“Pleased to meet you, Brid Slayer Harkens-sama. I am Fly Eltor of the Imperial Duke’s family.”
“Hmph, I see. So you’re the eccentric from the Duke’s family.”
“Eccentric?”
I tilted my head in confusion. I’m just an ordinary person. Unlike my brother, who was scouted by the Magic Tower, I’ve lived as a carefree son who enjoys drinking and wandering around.
“Hmph, I’ve heard about a noble’s son who doesn’t attend social gatherings. So you’re the harem guy, huh? I heard you were eccentric and wanted to meet you, but you’re a disappointment.”
“That’s right. I’m just an ordinary person. I’m not someone worthy of being under your command, Brid-sama.”
I smiled politely, hoping to end the conversation.
Suddenly, Elisabeth grabbed the hem of my clothes, so I shielded her and Irene-san with my body.
It seems they were scared of Brid’s intimidating expression.
“Oh, kukuku. Fly, was it? I’ll remember you.”
“Huh?”
“Both of these women are top-notch. Their magical power is considerable.”
Brid reached out toward Elisabeth.
I couldn’t just let that slide.
Slap!
Before I knew it, I had swatted away Brid’s hand as he reached for Elisabeth.
“My apologies. She is my brother’s fiancée. Please refrain from touching her.”
Well, I have to protect her on behalf of my brother Eric.
“Oh, kukuku, I see, I see. Fly, let me ask you something. Do you have any intention of serving under me?”
Huh? Didn’t he just say I was a disappointment? Did he change his mind? I was suddenly being recruited by Brid. It’s surprising that he’d approach someone as ordinary as me. Maybe he has a kinder side.
But I’m just a mob character. I have no intention of getting involved in the story. I’d rather enjoy this world as a bystander.
“No, I won’t serve under anyone.”
“Kukuku, you’re even more interesting! Someday, I’ll make you submit. Farewell.”
Brid walked away, laughing as if he was enjoying himself.
What was that all about?
“Haah~ So that’s the Mad King Brid!”
“Huh?”
“Uuu, that was scary!”
Elisabeth let out a sigh, and Irene-san clung to me.
They were both scared of Brid’s intimidating demeanor.
“Come on, you two. We need to prepare for tomorrow at the academy. Let’s head home.”
“Fly-sama, you’re so calm. As expected.”
“Fly-sama is so cool!”
“Huh?”
I’m not sure what they’re saying, but they must have been really scared.
