I had returned to the capital ahead of the others, but Kurt and Werner, who were wary of potential counterattacks and focused on repairing the fortress, finally led their troops back.
The soldiers were sent back to the barracks to rest first.
I called for Kurt to commend him for his efforts.
Werner? Apparently, he immediately went to sleep.
As I waited outside the castle for Kurt, he appeared, most of his bandages removed, and knelt before me. To recover this much from such severe injuries—his aura is seriously impressive.
“Good work, Kurt.”
“I have just returned, my lord.”
“You did well. You must be exhausted. Get some rest.”
When I suggested this, Kurt shook his head.
“No, I’m fine. I wish to remain by your side, my lord.”
Uh… this is giving off slight yandere vibes. Is this okay?
I firmly ordered Kurt, who refused, to rest, making it a command.
As the sky turned dark, the training grounds buzzed with liveliness.
We had a modest celebration at the fortress, but the food was simple. This time, we held a proper victory party.
As I watched them, I swirled the wine in my glass. … Honestly, I don’t even know why I’m doing this. It just looks cool.
In the midst of this, someone approached me.
“Lord Ainzich…”
“Werner? Shouldn’t you be at the feast?”
When I asked, Werner shook his head.
It’s rare for Werner to be this subdued.
“Lord Ainzich… What should I do…?”
I could sense what Werner was feeling.
In the retinue, he was second only to Herbert as a swordsman, but losing to Kurt must have made him feel like his status was taken.
Even during the fortress defense, he did make it in time, but it was my brother who saved the day.
We’re still young. It’s common to struggle with your sense of purpose at this age. Well, if you count my previous life, I’m not exactly young anymore…
I understand Werner’s worries, but what I can do for him is—
“Forge your own path. It’s something only you can discover, Werner.”
It was I who brought Werner into my service, so perhaps I bear some responsibility for him.
But I didn’t help him because I wanted a servant.
I wanted a companion.
“My own path…”
It might be a difficult task for Werner.
But despite everything, I trust him. That casual speech he never corrected, no matter how many times he was told, shows he has a core of unwavering strength. He’ll find his way.
“When you’re lost, remember this: You were my first knight. Have confidence.”
Herbert may now be my knight too, but he originally served a count’s household.
Herbert may be the head knight, but Werner will always be my first knight. That will never change.
“…Thank you, Lord Ainzich.”
It seemed like he was struggling, but he looked a bit more confident now.
“Don’t overthink it. Werner suits being a bit goofy.”
“That’s just mean!”
Yeah, Werner really is better when he’s cheerful like that.
