"Oh, you want me to admit it, do you? What's that all about?"

Baldus looked intrigued as he was slightly surprised by Aria's unexpected reaction and gestured for her to continue.

"Because the weapons and armor he makes are truly amazing! My Altair, Luna's staff, and Sofia's bracelet were all made by him... and it's because we had those that we've come this far. So... if his skills are properly recognized, maybe he will be able to open a workshop in the royal capital and forge freely... that's why I want to gradually increase the number of people who understand us!"

Aria's words were filled with a pure desire to improve the circumstances of her adoptive father, Darius, even just a little.

"...Hmm, I see. You wish to bring Darius-dono's unparalleled technique inside the barrier. And you want me to cooperate with that, is that it?"

"That's right!"

Seeing Aria's face, which was sparkling with joy, Baldus gave a wry smile.

(Indeed, seeing Aria-dono's Altair, there's no doubt that Darius-dono possesses exceptional skill. But... It's not that simple… The guild's vested interests, the secrecy of techniques cultivated over many years, and above all, the wariness of the unknown... The rules inside the barrier are certainly sometimes restrictive and stifling, but they also serve to prevent lawlessness, maintain order, and, most importantly, ensure the safety of the people inside the barrier and prevent valuable techniques from being easily leaked. Complete freedom in everything can sometimes lead to great chaos... Hmm, it's a problem that's not easily solved...)

"...Hmm. What Aria-dono says is also quite reasonable. Even I, having seen that Altair, cannot help but be interested in the maker's skill. And, if he is truly someone capable of forging weapons worthy of fulfilling my long-cherished wish... Very well, Aria-dono. If there's anything I can do, I will offer my humble assistance. First, we must meet this Darius-dono and see where the conversation leads."

"Really, Baldus-san?"

Aria's face lit up, and she jumped around like a child. Upon seeing her joy, Baldus couldn't help but smile.

"Alright! Then I'll go with you too!"

Aria looked up at Baldus with straight eyes. At those words, Baldus's eyes widened in surprise.

"W-what!? But Aria-dono, you're the Commander of the Knights, aren't you? ...I don't think you have the luxury of being away for an extended period."

"It's alright. I'll finish my work by then. Besides, I think it would be difficult to move around outside the barrier without a guide... And if I tell them I'm going to investigate outside the barrier, I should be able to move around with some freedom."

"...Indeed, that is true, but..."

"Most importantly, I want to see Darius-sensei...!"

As she spoke with a smile, Baldus gave a wry grin.

She was citing various reasons, but he thought that was probably the strongest reason and her true feelings.

"Yes, there is. As Aria-dono said, I'm still a bit uneasy about whether I can travel outside the barrier alone... Alright. If Aria-dono will accompany me, that's reassuring."

"Yes! I look forward to seeing you on the day. Please let me know again when your plans are finalized."

"Alright, I understand."

And so, Baldus parted ways with Aria and returned to his own home.

Upon returning to his own residence, Baldus headed towards the mansion of his master, the Langford Count.

Already on friendly terms, Baldus bowed deeply as he had been ushered into the Count's study.

"What's gotten into you today, Baldus? You're suddenly visiting so formally... Could it be that your daughter still won't listen to her magic training―"

"No, in that case... no, she's still the same as ever... but I've come this time because I have a matter I urgently need to consult with you about, and I would like to ask for your forgiveness."

Perhaps sensing something, the Langford Count put down the quill he was holding and quietly listened to those words.

His well-defined features, in his mid-forties, exuded intelligence.

"...Consultation?"

"...Actually, for many years, I have held a deep-seated desire in my heart, a wish that I, as a warrior, or rather, as a man, absolutely must fulfill. If I were to die now, I would not be able to rest in peace, as there is something akin to a debt of the soul... Without fulfilling that desire, I cannot possibly spend the rest of my life peacefully. Therefore, I am very sorry to be so presumptuous, but I would like to request some time off..."

Baldus carefully chose his words as he spoke with unwavering determination in his voice.

As if responding to Baldus's thoughts, the Count stopped his hand, showed no surprise, and simply returned his gaze quietly.

"...and that 'duty a man must fulfill' is something you can't tell me?"

"No, that's―"

After a moment's hesitation, Baldus spoke of the regrets of his former subordinates, which he had kept hidden deep in his heart for many years.

About the battle that was a disgrace and a shame, where the grudge against his nemesis, the "Grim Reaper," became his own stain.

Having heard everything, the Langford Count let out a deep sigh, slowly stood up, and walked over to the window.

And then, gazing at the view of the royal capital outside the window, he quietly opened his mouth.

"...I see. For a man like you to carry such deep feelings... I, of all people, didn't realize. I'm sorry, Baldus."

"Not at all… The Count has shown me such kindness in every way... I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the excessive generosity I have received until now. And yet, I am now making such a selfish request..."

The Count stopped Baldus from bowing his head again with a gesture of his hand.

"Very well, Baldus. I have indeed received your resolve. You may go."

"...Count..."

"And be sure to fulfill that long-cherished wish… I will keep the position of martial arts instructor for the Langford family vacant until you return, without giving it to anyone else. If you have prepared something as uncouth as a 'letter of resignation,' you can bring it back with you. I will be eagerly awaiting your safe return."

Baldus felt the stiff parchment of the resignation letter he had hidden in his pocket.

(This person... He saw through everything, my resolve, and even this resignation letter in my pocket... There's no guarantee I can beat that Grim Reaper anywhere. That's why I prepared for the worst, so as not to cause trouble for the house... but...)

Due to his master's profound insight, and even more so, his warm words that never doubted his survival, Baldus did not offer it.

"...Count... those words are an honor I am unworthy of... This Baldus will surely return alive."

"Yes, I believe you, Baldus. I sincerely pray for your good fortune in battle."

Encouraged by the Count's warm words, Baldus left the study.

Chapter 13