Chapter 308 - Volume 3
Chapter 87 – The gathering storm (1)
================ Brendel’s POV ===============
The silver obtained from Schafflund restored some life to Firburh.
At the same time, the gains that Brendel received from the Rune Dwarves’ Haven were beyond his expectations, and the youth believed that he had enough strength to take on a bigger challenge.
At this point in time, his eyes were cast to the north and he was prepared to give the nobles an announcement—
A new force is on the rise.
[The letter to Gryphine should reach her any moment now, and so is the news of Lord Macsen’s defeat to Lord Palas. Count Randner will get the news of the defeat in a few days.]
Beneath his palm were a few written pages assessing the number of troops that he had and the terrain around Firburh.
Everyone’s eyes fell on him. After becoming a mercenary for a decade, he had become more practical and cared less about the rules amongst the nobles. Under normal circumstances, it was not yet the turn for him to speak.
But Gryphine’s silver eyes glinted. She was more appreciative of people who spoke up instead of holding back.
“I’ve asked Princess Magadal to assist in this matter and she would be setting out soon. She has close ties to the Cathedral of Flames and her contacts are many. There’s a chance to turn things around,” she said.
“Would it be the princess who’s very devout?” Fleetwood asked.
“Does she have proper guards? At this stage, our actions are closely watched to the point where they might as well be transparent to the enemy. Once Princess Magadal leaves, she would most likely encounter assassins.”
“Naturally. Maynild is the leader of the guards protecting her.”
Buga’s eyebrow was raised. Maynild was Lady Ida’s daughter and had family ties with Duke Lantonrand. He had met her when she was still young, but her talent in the sword was already blossoming and he was certain that she had become an excellent swordsman.
He nodded slightly to Makarov’s questioning looks. The latter had also heard of her name, but he still questioned the princess’s decision: “Even though Lady Ida’s daughter is an excellent swordsman, but she is still someone who has not left the Academy. I believe that you need a more experienced leader.”
Gryphine nodded: “Which is why I waited for everyone to arrive here and delayed Magadal’s departure.”
Makarov’s eyes widened slightly at her answer and exchanged glances with the rest of the group. They bowed their heads to the princess.
“We’re grateful for your trust and would be glad to escort Princess Magadal,” Fleetwood said.
The room turned silent.
There was still a secret contract to be settled between Duke Lantonrand and the Corvado royal family, but the group felt that it should be the princess who should initiate this topic. While it was possible for them to talk about pleasantries, no one had the mood to do so when the pressure from the north was so great.
In the end, the princess spoke again with a small smile:
“Everyone should take a seat. Perhaps we can talk about things that are more relaxing. I’ve been hearing bad news day after day. I believe Lord Eke was a mercenary for a few years? It is quite remarkable and interesting even amongst the nobles.”
Her eyes also went to Makarov for a moment, bringing him into the topic.
Eke was suddenly taken aback as the attention focused on him. He started to stutter several words out before the princess spared him.
“Ah, yes, and I also recalled that teacher Fleetwood said that you encountered some trouble. You have always been on time when it comes to appointments, do you mind telling me what delayed you?” She continued to ask.
Fleetwood nodded and said: “Yes, to tell the truth, this has to do with the Golden Apple!”
Gryphine’s felt her heart beat violently and her pupils dilated a little. While she still kept her expression, as usual, Count Barre saw that minute reaction.