Chapter 58 (2/2)
“Normally, that will be how you operate.”
Wynn opened up a door in the room, where he saw four beds.
”However, if the need arises, you can use these quarters for sleeping.”
Whoa. How would I ever relax in here?
It may have been a guardroom, but it was still a room fitting for a palace. The bedroom was much bigger than the dorm rooms meant for children of n.o.bles to sleep in.
“Her Majesty is not available at the moment, so allow me to show you a few other places.”
Mary's words shook Wynn from his astonishment at the room's size. He looked back and saw Mary walking out of the room.
“Is there a place where I can train as well?”
“Certainly. The Imperial Guards are also training there. This way please.”
Mary led him out of the guardroom and down another hallway. They walked down long winding corridors, and came to a window. A ways away from the window, they saw a bowl-shaped structure where several people were training with their weapons.
“This is one of the many training areas. Underground, you will also find a place for testing more dangerous magic spells.”
“I think I'm going to get lost…”
Mary chuckled at Wynn's despondent form.
“Well, you will have to figure it out sooner or later.”
“I guess I'll have to do my bes— ”
“Hey you!” A young man's voice interrupted Wynn. He looked to be about twenty-five, and was a bit taller than Mary. Light brown hair and eyes with an innocent-looking face.
“You don't look like a n.o.ble, but you're still allowed in the inner palace? Perfect. My servant seems to have gotten lost.”
There was a bulging leather bag at his feet.
“Look around. It's such a splendid castle. Fit for a king, if I do say so myself. But right now, this size is just a ha.s.sle.”
“Huh?”
Each of his words were punctuated with flamboyant waves of his arms.
“I was appointed as a court mage this spring, but the luggage I have to carry is too heavy. I'm a scholar. It is beneath me to perform manual labor. I would like to make you my servant.”
The mage pointed at Wynn.
“Serv- Huh? A servant!?”
Wynn's eyes darted around, but found n.o.body else but him to be the target of the finger. His eyes met with Mary's. He must have been mistaken for a servant since he was walking with a maid.
“This personage is the princess' guardian knight. Not even a n.o.ble is permitted to give him orders.”
“Thank you for coming by to help me out. I am certain it would be horrible if I were late on my first day.”
He just ignored it!The thought crossed through both Wynn and Mary's minds.
“Therefore, you will help me carry my belongings.”
“As I have said… ”
“Yes yes, I understand.”
The mage nodded as he brought an open palm up close to Mary's face, interrupting her.
“Of course, I am not telling him to do it for free. Let me introduce myself: I am Viscount Raymond von Hoffman. I may not look like it, but I have connections with Marquis Cliffdorf, so I am certain it would be in your best interests to get to know me personally. Say, you are quite attractive.”
Raymond took Mary's hand.
The Cliffdorfs held sway over a great portion of the kingdom. The fact that Raymond was a viscount with connections to the Cliffdorfs was a testament to his influence. Mary's smile froze when Raymond grabbed her hand.
“Alright. We'll help you with your belongings, Viscount Hoffman.”
Shrugging, Wynn picked up Raymond's satchel. It certainly was a bit heavy. Wynn could see why the slim mage was having trouble.
“Um, Sir Bard.”
“It's fine. Her Majesty hasn't returned yet either, so we can go back straight after helping him out.”
“How kind of you. Do you intend to steal the things inside? Plebeians do tend to have sticky fingers.”
“Do you not think that you are going too far, Viscount Hoffman? There are no such hoodlums in the inner palace!”
Mary's voice became harsh, incensed by Raymond's arrogant accusations. However, Wynn held her back.
“Calm down.”
Mary silently apologized to Wynn.
“Does your master commonly employ such ill-mannered servants? You had better remember your place. Speaking of, what are my servants doing? I can't let commoners handle this.”
Raymond's gaze returned to Mary. He reached towards her with an amiable smile.
“Oh right, I haven't had the pleasure of hearing your name.”
He attempted to wrap his arm around her shoulder, but Mary smoothly stepped away.
“H-hey!”
“I have work to do. Please do not keep Sir Bard for too long, either.”
With a curt nod, Mary turned and walked down the halls. Raymond watched her leave before turning back to Wynn.
“So, where shall I bring this?”
“Tch,” Raymond clicked his tongue, “It's this way.”
Wynn followed Raymond down the halls.
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