Chernian Border Duke
"I don't think it's right to shove a person's face into the snow."
Ernan grumbled.
"Leaving someone alone in a place this cold isn't right either."
— If you don't like it, you can leave right now.
— Go shout it. I'm right here!
"Then I'd get caught."
— And then you'd be rescued and taken back to the kingdom.
"That can't happen."
Ernan shook her head. She did think she had to return to the kingdom someday.
But not now. Not anytime soon. And if nothing special happened… maybe she truly wouldn't return until the very end.
— So you won't go out?
"For now. If I go out now, it'll trouble the Demon King."
With Nairuniel's help, she hid herself deep within the snow. Keeping her presence to a minimum, she fortunately avoided being discovered by the Imperial soldiers.
— But you can't just stay here forever.
"I'll move out after putting some distance between us."
— Hmm.
"What is that face supposed to mean?"
— You seem far too relaxed for someone who's been abandoned.
— Have you never considered that the Demon King might simply be leaving you behind?
— He doesn't need you anymore.
"I don't think that's it."
Self-praise or not, Ernan had indeed become a valuable asset to the Demon King. Unless she committed a grave mistake, she was certain he wouldn't cast her aside first.
— I know what such unwavering belief is called.
"It's called a mutually beneficial contract where both sides take what they need."
— Wrong. I'm not talking about something so rigid.
"Trust?"
— Love!
Ernan pressed her fingers against her forehead.
— Absolute love that transcends borders, races, dimensions, and friend or foe alike!
"Please go back to the Spirit Realm."
— And if I do, how long do you think you'll last in the snow?
"…I can last a few days even without Nairuniel's help, you know?"
Being a spirit mage didn't mean her body was completely frail.
— But you won't be able to leave the snowfields easily!
— There's no folly greater than refusing the help of a water spirit in a place overflowing with water.
"…Anyway, depending on the situation, I'll leave after a day."
— And after that?
"I'll have to hide within Imperial territory."
They had already discussed where they should meet later.
— But what if the Demon King isn't there?
"Be quiet. You just said that."
Chewing on jerky, Ernan waited for the right moment.
***
When Ernan was burying herself in the snow, Berze was supporting the unconscious Hillen Cargill.
"You deal with him."
"Yes."
Tak-tak—
Imperial soldiers on pure-white horses approached.
What breed were they again…?
Those snow-white steeds were a breed modified by the Empire. Not ordinary horses— they underwent magical treatment so they could endure and run well atop snow.
They showed weaknesses in warm or uneven terrain, but on the cold, flat snowfields, they were said to be unparalleled.
"What do you know about that man?"
"I… not very much…"
"Useless."
If only Ernan were here, things would be easier.
Meanwhile, the hoofbeats reached striking distance. The one guarded by knights approached.
The Chernian Border Duke.
A noble who protected the Empire's northern frontiers from the snowfield's monsters— even in the harsh blizzard plains, he exuded dignity.
His brown hair was slicked back, his mustache shining faintly. His fierce eyes and presence held the weight of a seasoned veteran who had survived countless battles.
His gaze swept over the leading Granada, then Berze, then Hillen in turn.
"An elf?"
"I greet Your Excellency, the Chernian Border Duke. I am Granada of the Red Hawk Assault Unit."
"So you are the attack leader of the famed Hero Hillen's unit! I'm glad you lived. And the one behind you?"
"That is Hero Hillen. After prolonged pursuit and a joint assault by high-rank demonkin, he lost consciousness for a moment."
"Hillen Cargill, you say?"
The Chernian Border Duke's expression brightened.
"Yes, that is correct."
"I made the right decision to rush out as soon as I heard of the failure! Now I can save a hero who was in grave danger! Carry Hero Hillen immediately and call for a healing mage!"
Hillen was placed on a sled for the wounded. Three healing mages clung to him, repeatedly casting spells.
At the duke's request, Granada and Pale rode alongside him.
"Thank you, Your Excellency. Without your timely help, we would all have died."
"That is exactly why I came. Hero Hillen may not be a hero of the Empire, but he is a hero of mankind. Had he been slain by that vile Demon King, humanity would have fallen into deep despair. I am glad I could save him."
He continued:
"I cannot guarantee it yet. His wounds are extremely severe. But I will do whatever it takes to save him."
"Thank you."
"And you— you are Pale, correct?"
"That's right."
Berze barely restrained his rude tone, forcing it into formal speech. It was a valiant effort, but the knights serving the Border Duke did not appreciate it.
"How dare you!"
"Show respect, wretch!"
"Enough."
Fortunately, the Border Duke raised his hand to stop them.
"Shall we abuse warriors who risked their lives in battle?"
He smiled.
"Pale… I've heard of you. Was it you who stirred up the Acan Kingdom?"
"I'm not sure what you mean."
"A man connected to Hero Hillen, possessing pure mana and intense heat… perhaps the snowfields make that heat stand out even more."
"You know such trivial things?"
"The Empire pays attention even to trivial matters."
"What an honor."
"No, the honor is mine. Only three of you, and all three are remarkable. No wonder the hero and his unit are renowned."
Even as they spoke, the army advanced swiftly.
Occasionally, monsters lunged at them, but each one was reduced to chunks of flesh and returned to the snow.
"I would like to invite you all to my fortress. Will you accept?"
Granada glanced at Berze's expression. Berze gave a small nod.
They didn't like it, but ignoring the Border Duke's sincere hospitality would be improper.
Especially after receiving his help— and while Hillen Cargill was still receiving his help.
Ho…
The Chernian Border Duke caught that exchange with an intrigued glint in his eyes.
***
"I've served as Border Duke and patrolled the snowfields for decades, but this is the first time traveling back and forth has felt this easy."
The Chernian Border Duke stroked his mustache as the snowfall slowly quieted.
It was because of Hillen Cargill. Because of the Demon King of Frost, who sought to capture him.
The Border Duke had also witnessed the thousands of monsters that had been pressing against Hillen, Granada, and Berze.
"The Demon King must be exerting some degree of control over the monsters. We'll need alternatives."
But not immediately.
The expeditionary army returned to the Empire without significant losses.
The citizens of the fortress erupted in cheers at their safe return.
"Rest for a while."
The Border Duke arranged lodging for Berze and Granada and sent Hillen Cargill to the infirmary.
When the two of them were left alone, Granada asked:
"About Ernan… Wouldn't it be better for her to stay hidden in there? If she wanders around and encounters a high-rank demonkin…"
"Wrong. She can't stay there long. That place is Reina's territory."
Even for the Demon King, his own territory was not absolute.
But if he had summoned a spirit— pure mana incarnate— then discovery was only a matter of time.
"But if she meets demonkin—"
"You must have seen it on the way here. Reina overextended herself trying to capture Hillen. She pulled most of the monsters northward and then fled into the tower when she encountered the Empire. At the very least, for now, there won't be demonkin or monsters left in the snowfields."
"Well… that's true."
"And even if she encounters one, she can at least escape. She is a high-rank spirit mage."
"I understand."
"Why do you think the Border Duke is being so hospitable to us?"
There was no kindness without reason.
If the Chernian Border Duke had readily extended hospitality, it meant he wanted something in return.
And that something was likely:
"Hillen Cargill."
"That's my thought as well."
Hillen Cargill— the star who slew two Demon Kings, a hero with the potential to become even greater.
Who would turn down a connection with him? Especially when the Chernian Border Duke had personally saved his life.
"Hillen won't die. He suffered many wounds, but nothing that threatens his life."
He had lost quite a bit of blood, but the main reason he collapsed was mana exhaustion, spiritual fatigue, and the strain on his body.
That meant Hillen's skill had advanced enough to defend himself even in that danger. With food and proper rest, he would recover fully.
"But without him, we would certainly have died."
"You think the duke will boast about it?"
"He didn't strike me as someone who would."
From the battlefield back to the Empire— it took several days. They hadn't spoken much, but it was enough for Granada to understand the Border Duke to some extent.
"If he were the type to do that openly, perhaps it would have been easier."
"If he were that foolish, he wouldn't have protected the north for over a decade without major issues."
"True. Ah, and the Red Hawk mercenaries?"
"We haven't heard from them since they fled in front of the tower. I intend to visit the mercenary guild soon. If they're alive, they'll be there."
As they continued speaking, a servant knocked on the door.
"His Excellency invites you both to dinner. If you are willing…"
"I'll go."
"I will."
***
"Welcome."
The Chernian Border Duke was not the only one at the table.
"Gillian?"
The one-armed Gillian gave an awkward smile.
"Granada. Good to see you like this."
"Are you all right?"
"As you can see. I kept my life, so I got off cheap."
"Sit, all of you."
Berze and Granada took their seats. When the Border Duke clapped lightly, servants began to bring food.
Light soup, salad, and a perfectly roasted steak were served. Calmly slicing his meat, the Border Duke spoke.
"Hero Gillian."
"Yes, Your Excellency."
"I heard everything while you were being treated."
"Yes."
"I am greatly disappointed."
Gillian flinched and trembled.
"Five tribes have fallen. Many people have died."
"I'm sorry. No excuse can justify it."
"If I had known this would happen, I would never have approved it."
Approved it?
Berze's ears sharpened.
That meant the Border Duke had been involved in this matter as well.
Thinking about it, it was obvious…
Even though the Barbarians maintained some autonomy, they were never completely free of the Empire's control.
"I thought your plan was reasonably sound. At first you mentioned Princess Jesica, but she declined due to circumstances. Still, Hillen Cargill was with you. Why do you think you failed?"
"The Demon King's response exceeded my expectations."
"I heard. The tower doors opened and demonkin and monsters surged out?"
"Thousands of monsters even formed encirclements."
"Yes, that was truly unexpected."
The Demon King of Frost had never taken any action outside the tower before. The sudden aggression had caused considerable casualties.
"Did you know? Survivors have been arriving steadily."
"That means…"
"It means the Demon King showed mercy. Thanks to that, the damage is less than expected. Ah, of course— excluding the barbarian tribes that were wiped out."
The Chernian Border Duke smiled pleasantly.
How could he not be pleased? The Demon King, even after being attacked first, was expressing a desire for peace.
"And so, I intend to respond."
"Then…"
"There won't be a second time. Not that we would have the luxury for one. As promised, you will manage the barbarian tribes. Make sure they don't suffer further harm. And ensure they do not defy the Empire."
"Yes."
"The meat is well cooked tonight. Tell the chef it was delicious."
"Yes."
With that, the conversation ended. Only the sound of cutting meat and clinking dishes filled the room.
"Well eaten. Stand."
The meal was over.
***
The Chernian Border Duke remained alone in the dining hall.
Knock knock—
"Enter."
Altaman, the viscount, stepped in. The Border Duke extended an empty glass. The viscount poured the wine, then took a seat.
"How was it?"
"It's exactly as I thought. Will you have a drink as well?"
"Thank you."
The viscount accepted the glass.
"There were some yields, at least. I never expected the plan to succeed anyway."
It had been decades since the Demon King of Frost took root in the snowfields.
Could someone like her truly be weak?
Of course not. She might even possess a force capable of sweeping away the entire north in an instant.
Even so, the reason he approved Gillian Aint's plan was because she had been far too docile for far too long.
"I've fought against the Demon King of Frost for many years, yet I realized I know almost nothing about her."
Perhaps that was why, when Gillian Aint first proposed the operation, the Border Duke reacted positively.
"From his point of view, it was a gamble risking the fate of his tribe, but to me, the outcome was obvious— reckless, but meaningful recklessness, so long as Imperial blood wasn't being spilled."
And the result had been exactly as he expected.
The northern tribes suffered great losses, but in return, he gained much.
"It was fortunate the Demon King showed mercy."
"You expected that from the beginning, didn't you? A disposition maintained for decades isn't going to change overnight."
"Even so, predictions and reality are always different, are they not? Especially when it comes to the Demon King's whims."
"Whims. Yes— whims. And they are also the greatest harvest of this incident."
Thousands of monster troops.
And demonkin and monsters emerging from the tower.
Learning that she did not always remain confined within her tower— this was the greatest revelation.
"As expected, a Demon King is still a Demon King. She must always be treated with caution."
"Confirming the existence of her monster legion is also a great achievement."
It wasn't surprising that a Demon King could command monsters. But seeing the true extent of the Demon King of Frost's forces was entirely different from merely guessing.
Of course, they could not be sure those thousands were her entire army.
But assuming that number as the minimum meant the Empire was far less likely to be caught off guard in the future.
"Exactly."
"Thanks to this, the momentum of the northern tribes has been broken as well."
"And Gillian Aint's spirit has been crushed. The Demon King of Frost performed exactly to the degree I desired."
After the appearance of Gillian Aint and the White Eagle Assault Unit, the barbarians had begun rallying around Gillian Aint.
Not perfectly unified, but there was something— an invisible "center."
And that was the last thing the Empire's Border Duke wanted.
The northern tribes were meant to remain as a wall— divided, checking each other, and sacrificing themselves for the Empire.
"With this, they won't dare harbor different ambitions for a while."
Everything was proceeding exactly as planned.
His lips curled upward.
"What do you think of Granada and Pale?"
"They said nothing and simply ate in silence before leaving."
"They must be quite confused."
"They're probably trying to figure out my intentions right about now. What of Hillen Cargill?"
"They say he will awaken within two days at the latest."
"Good. And did you confirm the other matter?"
"Yes. Granada recently returned from the snowfields. She met Pale and a woman, then went back up into the snowfields with them."
"And then they encountered Hillen Cargill and saved him. What about the woman?"
"She wore a robe and a mask. We couldn't see her face at all."
"She vanished suddenly, then."
"I suspect she died during the rescue."
"That's the most convincing explanation."
The possibility that she had been buried alive in the Demon King's snowfield domain was beyond their imagination.
But in any case, she was not the one that held his interest.
Pale.
The man whose pure mana had shaken the Acan Kingdom.
Granada had fled the snowfields— yet she returned again to rescue Hillen Cargill.
If they had exchanged artifacts that could locate each other, then finding Hillen so quickly wasn't surprising.
But what did it mean that Granada— who had fled— returned with only Pale and a single woman instead of proper reinforcements?
"Granada is vice-captain of the Red Hawk Assault Unit. Yet to me, it looked like he was watching Pale's reactions."
"You're saying Pale is his superior?"
"And more importantly… I could not fully grasp him."
"To that extent?"
The Border Duke silently nodded.
"Report it to the central administration and begin the investigation from the Acan Kingdom. Track down everything about that man— his movements, his origins."
He needed some idea of who he was dealing with before speaking with him again.
"Yes, I will obey."
The viscount bowed deeply.
READ MORE CHAPTERS HERE : pokemon-translation-2.myshopify.com