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Allen turned to look at Isolte.
The wind swept past their noses, and Allen's breathing was quite audible.
Isolte didn't stammer; she held her breath, staring intently at Allen to convey her resolve.
Though her eyes still held their usual narrow, smiling expression.
Her tone, however, captured Allen's gaze, making him involuntarily look into her eyes.
Within them, his own face was reflected.
His eyelids blinked.
Allen suddenly blew a puff of air onto Isolte's face.
The wind tousled Isolte's bangs. The black-haired girl didn't react to this typical 'pre-swing' of Allen's, a common move to interrupt a conversation with an inexplicable action and throw off its rhythm. She continued to gaze directly at Allen.
Seeing this, Allen knew he couldn't deflect her this time and simply shook his head helplessly.
His reluctance to fully disclose his inner thoughts and the matter of the Great Teleportation was largely due to his fear that Isolte or others might become Human God's apostles, leading to the leakage of his intentions, or causing additional butterfly effects due to the leaked information about the Great Teleportation.
Giving Human God an opening would easily lead to his Great Teleportation plan spiraling out of control, given His knack for disrupting things.
It was important to remember that the most difficult thing to control was the human heart, and in interpersonal relationships, two types of relationships were most prone to 'disobedience.'
One type was enemies.
Another type was lovers.
Both would act proactively, even knowing you wouldn't approve, and were very fond of attempting things without your knowledge.
The former sought your demise.
The latter...
...sought your heart.
The latter might engage in actions and efforts hidden beneath the surface, stemming from good intentions. For instance, in the original story, Rudy, coerced by Human God, chose to unilaterally bear the pressure and go to war with Orsted to protect his family.
Of course, the outcome in the original was quite good.
But if Orsted's thoughts at the time had been subject to some misunderstanding, or, more simply, if the Dragon God was in a hurry to use the restroom that day, it could have led to extremely terrifying consequences.
It was worth noting that Rudy's intention in that action was to fight alone, but the final result was Eris's timely return, leading to Eris, Sylphy, and Roxy's family all neatly appearing at the scene of Rudy's defeat.
Orsted even made the terrifying statement: "If you continue to serve Human God, I will kill all of you."
Allen, when reading the original, was perplexed as to why Human God, who had just had His magnificent turning point 4, could be so foolish? Why would He actively push Rudy towards Orsted, directly causing Rudy to join Orsted's side and shielding his apostolic connection to Rudy?
But in that instant, when he took on the burden of making amends for some regrets, he understood.
Human God wasn't trying to push Rudy towards Orsted; He was trying to use Orsted's hand to kill Rudy's entire family. But because His judgment of Orsted's state was flawed, He hadn't expected Orsted, due to the variable brought by Nanahoshi, another person who didn't exist in the original storyline, to harbor a subconscious thought of 'let's see if the variable on this person is good or bad,' which led to the sluggishness in killing. Ultimately, with the Dragon God's momentary oversight, it turned into an outcome where Rudy was invited to join his side. This caused Human God's scheme to miscarry.
It was so close, just a hair's breadth away, from becoming a terrifying story of one person dragging their entire family to their demise.
(He had already tried his best to rationalize the unreasonable deus ex machina; this plot segment of turning point 4 + his solo with the Dragon God, although considered the biggest highlight of the entire book, came at the cost of—completely weakening Human God. From this point onward, He completely transformed from the supremely glorious evil god of turning point 4 into an outright incompetent clown.)
Breaking free from the rapid thoughts, accustomed to processing information through the crucible of Water God Style, Allen looked into Isolte's eyes.
He slowly said.
"Once we reach the royal capital, after a while, I'll tell you. But now is not the time. I promise, it's very—"
"Princess Ariel!!!"
Suddenly, a cheer interrupted Allen's words.
They both turned to look at the broken bridge.
Ariel raised her arm in the morning light.
"On the second day of the Water Festival, I, Ariel Anemoi Asura, pledge to everyone that as long as I live, I will do my utmost to ensure that Flowing Falls City, that Asura, that all the common people, that you, will see a more brilliant future!"
"Glory, under your and my witness, shall shine in the dawn of Asura!"
The cheers from both banks were deafening.
Allen turned to look at the Beastman mage standing beside Ariel. The last sentence, amplified by the Beastman's vocal magic, was exceptionally loud.
However, it seemed that with the Beastman mage's ability, he could only make that one sentence resonate across the dock.
But this was enough to ignite the passion of the populace.
"Princess Ariel!!"
"Princess Ariel!!"
"Princess Ariel!!"
The cheers of the people gradually harmonized from a cacophony, until finally, they became a unified shout.
The power of public opinion, so 'conspicuous,' even made the constantly grim-faced mayor crack a slight smile in this atmosphere.
Ariel looked at Allen.
Allen also looked at her.
Their gazes crossed through the sound waves and the fiery glow.
In a blink.
The orange dawn glow transformed into a crimson twilight.
And the cheers, too, became farewells.
The sounds gradually faded into the distance.
The ship sailed away from Flowing Falls City under the setting sun, as the sun's light receded behind the mountains where the waterfall plunged.
Ariel reached out, resting her hand on the railing, smoothing her somewhat disheveled hair, compared to the morning, behind her ear. She looked at the now distant and blurred figures of the people on both banks, letting out a long breath.
She leaned her entire body against the railing, then turned and offered a wry smile.
"My apologies, for the delay. I had intended to leave at noon and return to Asura, but I didn't expect this trip to Flowing Falls City to be so favored. The people actually called out in unison, adding many more events..."
Beside her, Allen and his companions were also leaning on the second floor of the pleasure boat, either admiring the scenery, watching Allen, dozing off, or studying the magic circle on the puppet's broken hand.
Except for Eris, the others weren't very tired.
They had been separated from the crowd the entire time, merely watching Ariel's itinerary from afar. After the mayor decided to help, he dispatched some skilled water warriors to replace the street patrol as guards. Thanks to this, the public order throughout Flowing Falls City was maintained quite well, with no disturbances.
Derrick Redbat wasn't tired at all; his expression was exhilarated.
"After Mr. Allen eliminated the assassins this morning, Princess Ariel, your speech became particularly fitting. It was a victor's address, and the people naturally wouldn't let you leave! In their hearts, you are the destined next King of Asura! Is there anything that could highlight your kingly potential more than what happened today?"
Ariel glanced at Derrick Redbat, then smiled and replied. "The 'loan period' is about to end. All of this is predicated on Mr. Allen being my retainer, for he orchestrated today's events, didn't he?"
Allen shrugged indifferently, patting the railing in front of him.
"No need to apologize for the delay. Thanks to it, the bodies and bloodstains on this ship could be cleaned so thoroughly, couldn't they? Besides, I alone wouldn't have been enough for the assassination. Ariel's status, her foundation of popular support, and her inherent leadership charisma were all factors contributing to this outcome. No need to overly emphasize my role."
"Simple, direct flattery like that won't work on me. I'm not Eris; I don't wag my tail when praised and immediately agree to join your faction."
Eris: "What's 'direct flattery'?"
Allen: "Giving it away directly."
Eris: "Huh? I don't get it! And 'wagging my tail'?! I don't have a tail! Ghislaine has a tail!"
Sylphy: !!!!
Allen: "...That's not important, Eris."
Eris pouted.
Derrick Redbat hadn't taken in Allen's last few exchanges; the first sentence had already doused him in cold water, chilling him to the bone. He had intended to collaborate with Ariel again, but it seemed utterly useless. He could only awkwardly take off his glasses and meticulously wipe them with his handkerchief.
Allen looked at his red-haired, red-eyed sister beside him, who was trying hard to keep her eyes open and frowning at him, and changed the subject.
"Are you tired? Didn't sleep well last night either?"
Eris nodded. "Not tired!"
This contradiction in her words and actions pulled Sylphy out of her internal horror of 'My... my 'tail' has been discovered...?'
Ariel, meanwhile, watched Allen's interactions with everyone. She suddenly remembered something Allen had said today.
—"First, win them over. Your methods will be much more effective on them than on me."
'Allen Boreas Greyrat isn't overly enthusiastic about my faction, but from his words and actions, it seems he doesn't have a strong desire to control the factional leanings of those around him.'
The sunset glow swirled in her cerulean eyes, making the Princess's eyes still sparkle brightly in the twilight.
Based on the character profile she had compiled from various probes during her brief day with Allen, Allen Boreas Greyrat was a slightly contradictory person.
Even putting aside Ariel's strong filter of possessiveness towards Allen, and analyzing from a completely objective standpoint, contrary to her previous understanding of Allen as merely a talented swordsman retainer, he not only possessed exceptionally gifted martial prowess but also keen situational judgment, excellent improvisation skills, and control over current affairs.
He had no flaws.
Derrick Redbat's respectful demeanor towards him today also confirmed this assessment.
But logically, such a talent would usually possess a very assertive personality. If there were a corresponding figure, it might be the James of his youth, who, unlike now, wasn't immersed in pleasure or had become somewhat greedy, but was still in his prime.
No, he should be even more extraordinary than James. James's literary and martial abilities were limited to intermediate Water God Style swordsmanship in his youth.
Whereas Allen, at only twelve years old, was already a King-level swordsman, and this wasn't even his limit.
Reida + James.
Ariel almost died when she realized this.
What a perfect talent for a royal aide and a privy counselor!
Using Allen's analogy from before he crossed over—this was a very capable secretary. If there was work, the secretary would do it. If there wasn't, he could also do the secretary.
So, why would Ariel find such a perfect blend of martial prowess and intellect somewhat contradictory?
It wasn't related to his abilities.
It was related to Allen's personality, as profiled by Ariel.
While possessing such striking personal abilities, Allen's demeanor and personality were indeed sharp.
But currently, it seemed.
That was only towards strangers and enemies.
When he looked at those around him, the sharpness in his eyes melted like spring snow, dissolving in a single breath, leaving behind a watery softness and kindness.
He seemed to value these 'children' around him immensely. In his conversations and eye contact with them, there was not a single hint of forceful behavior; instead, he always had a permissive attitude.
It was a feeling similar to respect, yet not quite the same.
Even with differences in ability, status, and the vast disparity in the positions they could achieve in the future. He still smiled equally at those around him, fully respecting their thoughts, not attempting to control their lives.
Contradictory.
Quite unlike all the nobles and royals Ariel had ever met before.
There was a
charm of contrast.
Making one instinctively want to lift his 'clothes' and see what he was truly like.
"So, should we go back and rest early today? How about it?"
"Okay!"
"Alright, Allen."
"Where should we be staying?"
In her line of sight, Allen turned his back to her, discussing the evening's accommodation with his companions. Ariel, watching Allen's back, deliberated for a moment.
Then slowly spoke.
"Mr. Allen, among your companions, I only recognize Miss Isolte Kureel and know Miss Sylphiette's name. But is the beautiful girl with the vibrant red hair your sister? And the handsome young man with brown hair, is he your friend?... Hmm, may I be introduced to them?"
Allen's hand, which had been stroking Eris's head, paused. His lips curved upwards, and he turned to look at Ariel, a peculiar smile on his face.
"Of course."
He gently pressed his hand onto Eris's shoulder, and in her somewhat bewildered expression, he turned Eris around, facing Ariel.
Like a shop assistant at a counter displaying luxury goods.
"This red-haired 'little lion' is my sister, Eris Boreas Greyrat, the daughter of Duke Saul of Fittoa, an Advanced Sword God Style practitioner, a genius swordswoman, and a disciple of Sword King Ghislaine."
Eris listened to Allen's clearly appreciative words, her smile rising, but she deliberately pursed her lips, showing a typical Eris-like tsundere smile. She didn't realize that Allen had hidden the fact that she was his full sister.
"Hello!"
Ariel blinked, looking at Eris with some surprise. She hadn't expected Allen's companion to be Duke Saul's granddaughter from the distant Fittoa territory, and...
Advanced Sword God Style?
These... siblings are both geniuses?
"...Hello~ Miss Eris."
Allen nodded, then pulled Sylphy, who had been watching his expression, over to him, holding her slender shoulders in front of him.
Sylphy's attention was entirely focused on the warmth from the fingers gripping her arm, her ears twitching.
"This is Miss Sylphiette, a highly talented Advanced Mage with exceptional skill in healing magic, a disciple of a Water King-level mage, and capable of rare voiceless magic."
Ariel smiled. "Thank you for your healing magic, Miss Sylphiette."
"...You're welcome."
Allen glanced at Isolte, intending for the more mature Isolte to introduce herself, but Isolte acted as if she hadn't seen Allen's gaze at all, merely smiling at Ariel.
Allen cleared his throat, took Isolte by the shoulders, and brought her in front of him.
"Isolte Kureel, granddaughter of Her Majesty Reida of the Water God Style main dojo, and a Water Saint of the Water God Style."
Isolte said with a smile. "Hello, Your Highness. I've seen you before, but seeing you today, you're even more approachable than I imagined."
Ariel ignored the somewhat barbed remark, only smiling and nodding. "Hello, Isolte Kureel. I thought you were very beautiful at the commendation ceremony, and all these years later, it seems my thoughts back then were rather conservative."
"...Undeserved praise. Your voice and face truly live up to the title of Asura's most beautiful princess of all time."
Finally, Allen pulled the inexplicably shy old NEET from behind him, hooking his arm over his shoulder.
"Rudyus Greyrat. He has a direct bloodline relationship with the Notos family, but his uncle has already severed ties with Notos. He is a disciple of a Water King-level mage, and now a Water Saint-level mage. If I'm not mistaken, he is the youngest Water Saint-level mage of this era."
This praise made Rudy, an old NEET who grew up in the East Asian culture of Japan where one doesn't boast about their accomplishments, blush.
Rudy never truly thought he was exceptional.
"...Hello, Princess."
Ariel nodded. "Hello, Mr. Rudyus."
Gulp.
This swallowing sound came from Derrick Redbat. He stared in astonishment at the 'geniuses' before him.
He felt profoundly defeated.
Night.
Allen and his companions' cabins were arranged on the second deck of the pleasure boat.
The royal pleasure boat was truly luxurious.
So luxurious that even on the boat, each cabin still had a maid, and they were even provided with bathtubs and hot water for bathing.
It was already ten o'clock at night.
Moonlight shimmered in layers on the waters of the Artir River.
Ariel, after a tiring day, had taken a hot bath served by her maid but had not fallen asleep. She simply sat by the window.
Using the moonlight and candlelight, she rustled a pen, writing in her 'recruitment' notebook.
On the notebook, from top to bottom, was a long list of names, followed by added personality traits, specific abilities, and how best to get along with them.
—Ariel's personal 'profiling book.'
She rested her chin in her hand, looking at the five new names added to her 'profiling book.'
Rudyus Greyrat – Recruitment difficulty for retainer – Easy
Son of the former Notos family head, who forfeited his candidacy. Some leverage can be gained from his status, but doing so would be counterproductive, displeasing Allen. Excellent magical talent. From his gaze, he seems to like the opposite sex. It seems possible to recruit him by 'catering to his preferences.' Lowest recruitment difficulty. Two maids and some magic tools have already been sent to him tonight, awaiting tomorrow's results and reactions.
Sylphiette – Recruitment difficulty for Guardian Mage – Relatively Easy
Commoner, gentle personality, very cute. Favored by Allen Boreas Greyrat. Although her talent is not overly conspicuous among the many geniuses around him, her personality is the most compatible with the estate. No need for excessive circumspection; suitable for a close attendant position.
Eris Boreas Greyrat – Recruitment difficulty for Guardian Knight – Relatively Easy
Young lady of the Fittoa territory, arrogant, sharp, naive, direct. Seems to greatly revere her older brother and is very close to Sylphiette. Suitable for recruiting her by binding her together with Sylphiette.
Isolte Kureel – Recruitment difficulty for retainer – Difficult
Hails from a Water God family. Although of common status, her grandmother holds immense influence in the royal capital. Favored by Allen Boreas Greyrat. Exceptional talent, perceptive personality. Due to Allen Boreas Greyrat, she holds some animosity towards me; not suitable for a close attendant position. May refuse recruitment.
Pat, pat.
Ariel gently tapped the table with her pen.
These names and the subsequent annotated notes had long since dried.
But her slightly moist gaze remained fixed on the simplest, yet most important, line at the very bottom.
Below the four names, several lines extended, connecting to the four names above.
Allen Boreas Greyrat
—Retainer and Strategist, Guardian Knight, Lover, Powerful Noble Status, Talent for Royal Aid, Future Prime Minister potential.
Recruitment difficulty – Extremely Difficult.
To obtain him.
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