Chapter 232
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After the unprecedented chaos of the Hero going berserk settles down, everyone returns to their original positions to resume their discussion with renewed composure.
The exception is Ryūgūin. He only receives minimal healing and is further restrained by various spells and barriers. Not only is he unable to speak, but he can barely move, managing only to remain on his knees with great effort.
Chancellor Madison steps forward again and says 「Well then」 to restart the proceedings.
「First, Ichiro, I must apologize to you.
When the fragment of the Holy Sword released its light and disappeared into the sky, I clearly realized what had been happening all this time. We… we had gone mad. Having fallen for the Hero’s scheme, I disparaged you excessively even in your absence. I was truly foolish.」
With these words, Madison bows his head.
「Though I am a layman when it comes to combat, anyone could see at a glance how impressive your recent battle with the Hero was.
As expected, everything Anon said was true.
Let us acknowledge our past mistakes and publicly declare that the Hero’s achievements were actually yours. And as you argued earlier, regarding Saint Mika, the wise Angelica, and sword saint Eris – we will fully consider your position and not charge them with any crimes. When we make the announcement, I promise we will handle the matter of these three with appropriate discretion.」
It seems that when Refaia released its light into the sky, it lifted the phenomenon that had reversed people’s recognition of me and Ryūgūin in the memories of those who knew us from before.
「I am grateful for your consideration.」
「I would like to speak with you again later. Would that be acceptable?」
「There is much to discuss, so I would gladly accept.」
The old Chancellor nods with satisfaction at my response.
「This concludes my part. I leave the rest to you.」
In the Chancellor’s place appears a young cardinal.
「With Chancellor Madison’s leave, I will take charge from here. My name is Gilbert Rasmus. I serve as a cardinal of the Crater Church.」
He’s the man who had been repeatedly glancing at me since I first entered the throne room. Though I sensed no malice in his gaze, I had my own thoughts about it.
「Holy Knight Ichiro, isn’t it? You have good eyes. As expected of—
Ah, no need to be so formal. You don’t have to be nervous. And while Chancellor Madison has already said everything I wanted to say earlier, I wanted to thank you personally.
Thank you for working so hard for us. Your struggles must have been extraordinary. We promise to repay you with all the sincerity we can muster.」
I gladly accept his thanks.
One of the Crater Church’s cardinals.
Gilbert Rasmus.
I think he has an easy-going, gentle atmosphere about him.
However, I know this is only one side of him.
Behind his smile and his gently narrowed eyes, I can sense the flames of fury.
「May I ask the Hero, Ryūgūin, something?」
Still wearing his smile, he addresses Ryūgūin.
Ryūgūin, still on his knees with his limbs bound, startles at suddenly being called by name.
「Hero, don’t be so surprised. Come on, take a deep breath, deep brea— Oh! You can’t because your mouth is covered. Would someone please remove whatever’s covering the Hero’s mouth? Are you alright? Not in pain, are you, Hero?」
Overwhelmed by Gilbert’s demeanor, Ryūgūin nods.
「Phew! What… what are you planning to do with me?!」
Ryūgūin asks once his mouth is freed.
「You see, unlike Chancellor Madison and the others, I see value in you. If you’re willing to obey us, I’m thinking we could significantly reduce your punishment for this incident.」
Ryūgūin shows a suspicious expression at his words.
「Now, now, don’t be so wary. I’ve heard some stories about you. For instance, the story about your failed fertilizer-making attempt, and the proposal for surgery to save a girl with an incurable disease. I believe those were manifestations of your conscience. You’re a Hero after all. Didn’t you want to save people? It’s alright. I understand.」
Ryūgūin shows interest in Gilbert’s words.
「You see, I think it’s wrong to place all the blame on you. Like the earlier incident, and the fertilizer story – it’s the farmers’ fault for not being able to utilize this fountain of wisdom that was bestowed upon them through you. But sadly, this way of thinking seems difficult for ordinary people to understand. You understand what I mean, don’t you?」
At Gilbert’s words, Ryūgūin’s face brightens as he nods.
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