Entering the territory while imagining Adelia dressed in a maid outfit, I could see with my own eyes that quite a lot had changed. Even before the start of the semester, our territory was already developing, but now it had become something akin to a ‘city.’
Especially noticeable were the humans who had come with support from the Minerva Empire, as well as the frequent appearances of demons. I heard that they came with diplomatic support from Helium. Given that Xenon’s birthplace, where an exhibition is scheduled every year, it was somewhat natural for Helium to dispatch personnel.
With skills rivaling dwarves and using magic as if it were a tool, demons constructed buildings at an extraordinary pace. It was as if the laborers from my favorite game in a past life were working diligently.
“Let me ask you one thing. How does this work?”
“Oh, this? Well, you see…”
However, it didn’t mean that humans only regarded demons with admiration. Humans, having built civilizations second only to elves, were not inferior to others in architectural technology, even if they couldn’t use magic.
Just look at the imperial palace and the scenery of the capital of the Minerva Empire not far away. Although their magical abilities might be lacking, humans have achieved a valuable civilization over centuries.
Due to this, excluding magic, humans were ahead in ‘technological prowess.’ It felt strange to see a human who seemed like a supervisor passing on know-how to demons.
‘But is hanging a pen on the ear the same everywhere, regardless of time and place?’
People who oversee both humans and demons seem to have pens hanging from their ears. And not just any pen, but a magic pen like the one I use. It seems like a gift from the demon side, perhaps suggesting the supervisors use a pen instead of a quill. It may appear like nothing, but it can easily serve as evidence of harmony.
Just a few years ago, humans despised demons, and now they are working together to build structures in our territory. Xenon’s Biography has truly changed the world.
Moreover, demons were only guests at exhibitions until a year ago. I remember meeting a demon who was dating a human woman at that time, and Cecily was impressed by their relationship.
Returning to the present, we were now collectively building a cultural city. The fact that demons are collaborating with other races to achieve something is already changing the world.
“Before the semester, it wasn’t like this. The influence of the exhibition is indeed remarkable.”
“Yeah.”
Adelia also seemed to share similar sentiments as she looked around the territory with a curious gaze.
The cultural city is more like a city for tourism. Various creations inspired by Xenon’s Biography were displayed throughout the streets, providing diverse attractions.
For artists who value their honor, having many people view their works was advantageous. Therefore, the Michelle territory was like a haven for artists.
Thanks to the artists, the territory has attracted more tourists and residents, creating a mutually beneficial relationship.
“…There’s a temple here.”
“It’s similar to the one in the capital.”
And lastly, the temple. As reported in the newspaper, a colossal temple stood proudly in the center of the territory, emitting an imposing presence. It boasted overwhelming grandeur similar to the Luminous Temple in the capital, making it impossible to pass by without notice, right in the heart of the territory.
Our territory was nothing but vast fields, a rural land, so we were fortunate. If it were another city, there might not have been a place to build a temple.
‘Then, over there…’
I shifted my gaze to the empty space across the Luminous Temple. Due to the nature of the temple, regulations dictate that shops or regular buildings should not be erected nearby. If Luminous were to descend upon the newly established temple, its sanctity would spread to the surroundings, and other buildings would absorb that sanctity.
Who would dare build a structure next to a temple that exudes both majesty and solemnity at the same time? However, across from the Luminous Temple, the foundation for construction was steadily being laid.
Naturally…
“Is Mora’s temple going to be erected there?”
“Probably.”
“Amazing. The twin sibling god’s temple in one territory. It truly shows that the Minerva Empire is deliberately pushing and supporting this.”
As Adelia mentioned, across from the Luminous’s Temple, a Mora’s Temple was scheduled to be built, supported by Helium. It seems that the construction has temporarily paused due to the upcoming exhibition.
Even if they are demons, completing the temple within a week is somewhat unreasonable. Building a structure for the deity they worship is something that cannot be done haphazardly and is likely not acceptable. So, for now, they will enjoy the exhibition, and it seems that the construction will proceed after the exhibition is over. Perhaps it will be completed within the vacation period.
“Then, will our cutie be in charge of the territory where the temples of Luminous and Mora are erected?”
“I don’t know. My brother might take on the role in the middle. He said he would stay in the military, but you know, people’s plans don’t always work out. Maybe he’ll receive it after completing his military service.”
Originally, the succession of the family headship can be decided directly by the family head, but there is an implicit understanding that the eldest son inherits the position. The eldest son is usually the oldest and has experienced various tasks alongside the father, so he is thought to have more wisdom.
Although there are cases where a daughter or a younger son inherits the family headship, it is not common. Noble women usually marry, and younger sons mostly pursue their own affairs.
Of course, if I reveal my true identity, the story may change. If my father appoints me as the family head, Dave will likely be in a similar position. Perhaps influenced by my father, our family dislikes politics, excluding my mother. They might all gladly pass it over to me.
“And I, dreaming of becoming a historian, should delay it as much as possible. At least I want to travel the world.”
“Well, if that’s your wish, there’s nothing we can do. Lord Hawk might feel a bit sad when he hears about it.”
“For now, wouldn’t it be better for father to handle the work? Being a former knight commander, he must have considerable political influence.”
The Navy Knights focus mainly on combat as they are close to the special forces, but my father is a figure who has risen to the position of commander. If we were to compare it to my past life, he’s not just a captain, but a colonel, and moreover, a combatant who directly engages in field battles.
Why are there some crazy colonels who, even occasionally, refuse to be promoted to field commanders? Roughly speaking, it can be seen as such a position. It’s unreasonable to say that such a person lacks political power. If they make a mistake, they could cut off supplies and more from higher-ups, but political power is not a choice but a necessity.
The reason my father dislikes politics might be rooted in this. Especially in my father’s generation, the barbarians were rampant, and supplies were essential, not to mention the shortage of personnel.
“So for now, my father will continue to handle it. What do I know about the economy? Meeting higher-ups is much better done by my father.”
“That’s true.”
Having such conversations, I passed through the lively territory and moved my steps towards the mansion. During the move to the territory, some of the residents recognized me and greeted me warmly. I also smiled and greeted them kindly. Occasionally, a naive child would run up, but their parents sternly restrained them.
Adelia also stopped chatting momentarily and assumed a vigilant posture as the number of people increased, preparing to draw her sword at any moment.
The people in our territory are all kind-hearted individuals, and there was no need for caution. However, her attitude of fulfilling her duties resonated with me, so I just let it be.
Before long, we passed through the bustling town and arrived at the entrance of the mansion. The guards at the gate greeted me briefly upon seeing my face and opened the door.
Returning home is always a refreshing and joyful experience. My family, whom I longed to see, always welcomed me with sunny smiles.
The true essence of ‘home’ is something that only those who have been away from their families for a long time can feel. There is a reason why those who live in distant places often suffer from homesickness.
‘I miss them so much.’
Furthermore, the anticipation grew as a new family member was born. According to the letter from my mother, it was a small and lovely younger sister with features similar to my father, possessing the same reddish-brown hair.
Moreover, although it was a distant future event, Lily is expected to grow into a beautiful and charming woman. Last time when Mora playfully reversed my gender, she said Lily would be very similar to that.
In the world’s age standards, she was too young to be my younger sister but more like a daughter. If I were to go out with Lily right now, people would probably mistake her for my child.
Nevertheless, she’s cute, so it’s okay. With expectations in my heart, I passed through the wide-open gate. As I entered the mansion after the gate, the face I longed to see came into view.
“Welcome back, Isaac.”
Despite having gone through late childbirth, my mother, Anna, welcomed me with a kindness and beauty that rivaled that of a maiden. It seemed she had already received news of my arrival, as she greeted me warmly as soon as I opened the door.
I momentarily appreciated her welcoming face, only to discover a bundle nestled in her arms. Something was stirring inside, and my mother, in a familiar posture, held it comfortably.
“Hello, Mother. By the way, what are you holding right now?”
“Hehe.”
When I cautiously inquired, my mother smiled gently and approached me slowly. I, too, approached with anticipation. Adelia, who was by my side, followed with a curious expression. Subsequently, my mother extended the bundle she was holding securely.
And inside it…
“UuUuu.”
It was Lily, my newly born sister, with golden eyes wide open. Although only two months old, she emitted an indescribable charm with her rich red hair and large pupils. Cuteness, charm, and finally, an overwhelming loveliness that melted the heart. Just looking at her made a bright smile naturally appear.
Squee
Lily alternated her gaze between me and Adelia, then started sucking on her own fingers. They say babies start doing that around two months old, and it seems to be true.
By the way, how can someone be so adorable? Just like they say, a healthy tree shows its vitality from its leaves, and Lily’s beauty was no exception.
“Can she support her neck on her own yet?”
“Not yet. But she’s working hard now, so she might be able to do it on her own soon.”
“Gyaoo~”
While my mother and I were talking, Lily cooed and made a cute sound. Of course, both Adelia and I couldn’t help but laugh at that sound.
Ah, this really feels like healing. I almost touched Lily’s face without washing my hands, but managed to stop myself just in time.
I should wash my hands first. And while I’m at it, I should greet Dad in the study.
“I’ll wash my hands first.”
“Sure. Mom will be waiting in the room. Dame Cross, make sure to wash up and come back.”
“Yes, I understand.”
“Ah, alright.”
Before leaving, I didn’t forget to look at Lily, who was cooing. No, I looked at her two or three times before finally taking my steps.
I want to touch those chubby cheeks and feel those tiny hands as soon as possible. Of course, I have to hold that little body in my arms.
Above all, what I most want to do is present her my index finger. More precisely, Lily grabbing my index finger.
How ecstatic it would be if Lily held my finger tightly with her small hands. I can imagine how my face looks even without looking in the mirror. It will undoubtedly become a bit awkward.
Actually, it was a wish I wanted to try if I ever had a niece. In my past life, I couldn’t fulfill it because I was an orphaned child with no relatives, but I was able to achieve it after being reborn.
After parting ways with Adelia and heading to the bedroom to wash my hands, I unexpectedly met someone. The reason for the construction of the Luminous Temple in our territory, Cardinal Kate.
She was wearing the characteristic tight nun’s habit instead of armor. Her body was already outstanding, and now, unlike before, there was even a strange aura.
In addition, the scent of lilac that stung my nose. The lilac scent from my body became familiar, but not so for Kate’s.
Originally, lilac scent didn’t come from her. However, after just a few months of parting, she was emitting a strong fragrance.
What on earth happened during that time? Along with that, her holy aura was greatly emanating, so just meeting her made my mind go slightly blank.
“Hello, Sir Isaac. It’s been a while.”
After drawing the holy symbol, Kate bowed her head gracefully and greeted me warmly. I quickly regained my composure in response to her greeting.
“Oh, yes. Hello, Ms. Kate. It’s been a while. Have you been well?”
“Thanks to the protection of Luminous and your presence, I’ve been doing well.”
“··· ···”
The fanatical aspect was there from the beginning, so let’s assume that’s the case, but I don’t understand the meaning of the latter part. What does it matter that I exist?
With that meaning, Kate blinked her eyes and opened her mouth with a compassionate smile.
“Thanks to the advice you gave me, I was able to eradicate all the parasites that had taken root in Xavier. I’m truly grateful.”
“Oh, well…”
Is she talking about the spoiler incident? I scratched the back of my neck, avoiding eye contact. There’s not much to say about that.
I have learned it through Luminous, and I was going to release it through my book anyway. So, I indirectly provided advice using a proverb from my past life, allowing Kate to figure out the meaning on her own.
Kate just uncovered the meaning of that proverb and solved the problem on her own.
Anyway, let’s move on. Even though Kate’s gaze was a bit uncomfortable, it’s more important to address what I’m curious about first.
“By the way, why is Miss Kate here in our mansion?”
“Lord Michelle has been gracious. He said I could stay at the mansion for a while.”
“I see.”
Well, considering that she even erected a temple, this level of generosity was probably standard.
“Then, is Miss Kate participating in the exhibition too?”
“Yes. To prevent this sacred land from being defiled by annoying devil worshippers, I will pray to Luminous and bestow blessings on the entire land. That way, the sacred festival can proceed even more safely.”
“······”
A response came containing Kate’s intensity and fanatical aspect simultaneously. I was barely able to suppress the slight dizziness that came after hearing that.
Anyway, if blessings were bestowed as she claims, the exhibition will proceed much more safely. I don’t know what misconception she has, but I’ll just overlook it for now since I don’t know what that misconception is.
In my heart, I’d like to talk more with Kate, but Lily takes precedence now. With that in mind, I concluded the conversation and greeted her.
“Well, I hope it’s an enjoyable exhibition. I have a brief matter to attend to, so I’ll go first.”
“Alright. I’m always ready, so feel free to come by whenever you have time.”
She drew the symbol of respect once again and spoke to me with reverence.
“The light that will save the world.”
“··· ···”
What kind of misconception is she having, exactly?
Translators note:
Prepare for the most wholesome chapter ever. You have been warned.
Chapter fixed.
