Chapter 88

"――Attention, all personnel!"

In the central square of the knights' headquarters, where the knights of Reberio had gathered, Alyssia's stern voice echoed through the silent venue.

There was no one here who was fidgeting or murmuring. Everyone understood the importance of the mission ahead, all too well.

"As you all know, the Sphendorbardania delegation will be entering the kingdom today."

Well, they've finally arrived, the Sphendorbardania delegation.

They are expected to reach the Reberis Palace very soon, currently under the protection of the Church Knights and the Kingdom Guard, heading for the palace.

"Starting at ten o'clock today, they are scheduled to tour the city of Baltrean with the Third Princess."

We will head to the palace and join the escort for the Third Princess of Reberis Kingdom and the First Prince of Sphendorbardania's tour.

Of course, we can't all be close to the royal family, so only selected knights will be near them. Most of the knights will be working with the Kingdom Guard to secure the streets.

Still, I think that's more than enough. However, since we are protecting the core of the country, it's too late if something happens. Our job is to ensure that nothing happens, and to be fully prepared.

But, Alyssia's formal voice is always so impressive.

Usually, her voice is soft, so the contrast is even more striking. She really embodies the image of a knight commander. She has truly grown into a fine leader.

"As previously announced, we will divide into five squads, each responsible for close protection and street security. The First Squad will consist of myself, Hembritz, and Beryl, and we will be close to the Third Princess."

Alyssia reiterates today's assignments.

My assignment was apparently a last-minute decision, but I ended up being assigned to the princess's close protection. I have no idea how that happened.

"Next, the Second Squad—"

The squad commanders are appointed, and the security arrangements are communicated.

I wish I could have been assigned to the street security. It seems I can't avoid meeting important people. Tough luck.

"Any questions?"

After the squad assignments, Alyssia looks around at the knights.

No one speaks up, so it seems there are no questions. Instead, everyone's face shows clear enthusiasm.

While it's just security duty, it's a rare opportunity to work with the royal family. How we perform here will directly affect the royal family's and other countries' evaluations, so everyone is putting in a lot of effort.

For me, the pressure is more than the enthusiasm. An old man from a small village being assigned to protect a royal is a bit much.

"―Then, let's move out!"

"Yes, sir!"

Finally, Alyssia gives the order, and everyone starts to move.

"Alyssia, good work."

"No, the real test is just beginning."

In the midst of the movement, I speak to her, and she responds with a soft voice. Her formal tone is over, I guess.

"But... do I really have to be with the princess?"

"It was decided based on your abilities... Is there something wrong with that?"

"No, um... It's fine. Sorry, I asked a strange question."

I casually ask, but Alyssia's face looks like she's thinking, "What are you talking about?" She doesn't doubt my abilities at all.

I wish she would doubt me a little. I want to complain about being dragged onto the stage, but it's pointless to say it here.

Ultimately, everything was decided when I accepted the role of special instructor. My peaceful life as an instructor is long gone.

"Well, it'll work out..."

My muttered words dissolve into the sky.

The sky was clear, perfect for the tour.

"Oh, Alyssia. I look forward to working with you today."

"Yes, I will protect you with the pride of Reberio."

A little later, we are gathered at the main gate of the palace, meeting the royal family. Alyssia is speaking with the princess on behalf of the three of us.

The Third Princess of Reberis Kingdom, named Salaria Asford El Reberis. I'm meeting her for the first time, but she is incredibly beautiful.

She is probably in her mid-teens. Her appearance is still very cute, especially her large, round eyes. She might remind me of Kurni's eyes.

However, she has a calm demeanor and an aura that belies her age. This must be the power of royalty.

"Also, Hembritz. I look forward to working with you."

"Yes! I will do my best!"

The princess is kindly greeting each of us who will be protecting her.

Hembritz's response is a bit strained, probably because he didn't expect to be addressed. I'm nervous too.

"Um... Are you the special instructor?"

Oh, it seems my turn has come.

Huh? The princess knows about me?

While Alyssia and Hembritz are in full armor, I'm in a jacket, so I feel like I stand out a lot.

I feel very out of place, but it's too late to back out now. I'll just have to do my best.

"Nice to meet you. I am Beryl Gardenant, the special instructor of the Reberio Knights. Today, I will be responsible for your protection along with the commander and deputy commander."

"Yes, I look forward to working with you."

Am I speaking properly? Even though I've resolved myself, I'm still nervous. Meeting a top-tier person for the first time, my heart is pounding.

"Princess Salaria"

While I was thinking about this, a stern male voice came from the side.

Turning around, I saw a young man with an incredible aura looking at us.

He is probably just about to become an adult. His neatly arranged blonde hair shone in the sunlight. His emerald-like, clear eyes gave the impression of a straightforward and honest person.

He must be the First Prince of Sphendorbardania.

"Prince Glen. I look forward to working with you today."

"Likewise. Baltrean is a beautiful city. I look forward to today."

The two exchange greetings and shake hands.

The meeting of the First Prince of Sphendorbardania and the Third Princess of Reberis Kingdom. It feels like petals should be floating around. Am I really out of place here? I hope everything goes well.

Beside Prince Glen, I see Gathgar and Rose, whom I met the other day. They are indeed serving as the prince's guards.

Rose notices my gaze and waves at me with a smile. Focus on your job, Rose.

"Shall we go? It's the festival season in Baltrean."

"Yes, I've heard. The country seems lively and very pleasant."

The two exchange a few words. The atmosphere seems good, which is a relief.

This is a state visit to promote friendship between the two countries, and the public is watching. Even if they don't feel good about it, they wouldn't show it.

"However, I'm glad the weather is good today."

"Really. ...S, Salaria Princess, your face looks even more beautiful."

"Oh...! Hehe."

Prince, did you just try to flirt? I can hear their conversation because I'm close to them, and it seems like the prince is subtly making advances.

And the prince is blushing.

If you're going to blush, don't do it, I want to say, but it would be extremely rude to say it out loud. I'll just watch them with a smile.

The princess doesn't seem to mind, and the atmosphere remains pleasant.

It seems that royalty has a special connection with each other. It's a world I don't understand.

"Princess Salaria, may I have your hand?"

"Yes, thank you."

The prince and princess board the grand carriage prepared at the main gate.

We have a separate carriage for security. In case of an emergency, multiple carriages, including decoys, are prepared, and each is manned by guards.

The prince, princess, and a servant each board the carriage.

Although we haven't spoken, the servants' movements suggest they are capable fighters, not just attendants.

The prince and princess are riding in the same carriage. I thought they would be in separate carriages, but there must be some reason for this.

It's fine, I guess. It's not something I need to worry about.

Today, we will tour the northern and central districts, have lunch, and then head to the western district.

According to the schedule, we should be back at the palace before sunset, even if we are a bit late. I don't know what will happen after today, but if something comes up, Alyssia will give us orders.

Being a special instructor without a formal knighthood has its perks. I don't have to attend meetings or conferences.

Alyssia seems to be pushing for me, but there are structural issues.

This is already a heavy responsibility for an old man. I want to avoid anything more. Being remembered by the Third Princess is already too much for me.

"Let's go."

The voice of the carriage driver rises as we board.

Thinking about all this, the tour of the First Prince of Sphendorbardania begins without any issues.

Hello, royalty.

I feel like I'm the only one out of place here... I really stand out in a jacket while everyone else is in armor.