Okoborehime to Entaku no Kishi - Volume 1 - Chapter 3

OKOBORE HIME
TO
ENTAKU NO KISHI
The Leftover Princess and the Knights of the Round
Story by: Riine Ishida
Art by: Ichiko Okiya
Brought to you by: AQUA Scans
Credits:
 Raws: Icarus Bride
 Translation: Crystal Hikari
 Proofreading: Fallinwind
 Quality Checking: Mizuouji
Translator’s notes:
The Japanese honorifics were kept in the translation of the dialogues of
the characters to show the respect or adoration shown by the characters.
Footnotes were provided upon the first appearance of the honorific in
the chapter to explain it.
Thoughts are signified by ‘italics’.

CHAPTER III THE KNIGHT AND THE ASSASSIN

- 4 -
The Royal family of Sommevesle, the high ranking officials of
the Royal Chivalric Order and all knights not on guarding duty
gathered in the Great Hall of the Royal Castle for an important
ceremony. The atmosphere inside the Hall was tense. An event as
grand as this was very rare and all those in attendance would serve
as witnesses as their future queen knighted the Knight of the First
Seat of her Knights of the Round.
Astrid, seated at the back in the audience seat, gazed from afar
his senior and the princess he so admired.
‘This is my first time seeing a knighting ceremony.’
When Astrid heard that Duke accepted Leti’s invitation to be
her knight, he asked his senior why because Duke had hated the
notion before. And Duke’s answer was, “—because she is a master
worth offering my life to.”
That was probably the answer Astrid was hoping to hear all
along. When he asked other knights why they swore loyalty to
their masters, most of their answers were because of duty or
because they were invited.
‘They will truly mean every word in the Knight’s Oath.’
Leti wanted Duke to be her knight. Duke wanted Leti to be his
master. This was how the Knight’s Oath should be, both parties
wishing for the other. Astrid enviously looked at the two persons
he respected.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 5 -
Leti, in her beautiful white dress, stood in front of Duke, who
was kneeling on one knee with his head bowed deeply.
“With a sword on thy right and a shield on thy left, dost thou
swear loyalty to me till the day thou die?” The master’s dignified
voice filled the Great Hall like a wonderful melody. Then the
knight, with an equally dignified voice, answered his master’s call.
“With a sword on my right and shield on my left, I swear
loyalty to thee, my master, till the day I die.”
“Thou art my knight.”
Leti passed on the half-closed sword to Duke. Duke then
returned the sword to its sheath, and this metallic sound declared
to all that the knighting ceremony was over. The crowd cheered
and applauded. Astrid joined in his hands as well.
‘…But I wonder why…’
Astrid couldn’t comprehend why he suddenly wanted to stain
Leti’s immaculately white dress scarlet.
Leti could no longer be the carefree princess she was before.
In other words, she couldn’t let herself be occupied about the
assassin incident any longer. She had to prioritize her
responsibilities as the crown princess, and today’s tea party was
part of that.

- 6 -
“Duke, stay here. A maid shall come to show you the way to a
drawing room where you can stay for the while.”
Leti left Duke and opened an ornate door with her one hand
since the other was occupied with a big basket.
“A good day to you Prince Guido, Prince Friedhelm, today’s
weather is perfect for a tea party, is it not?”
The weather was a heavily clouded sky, as if representing the
relationship between the three eldest royal children of Sommevesle.
Leti was the one who suggested for the three of them – Friedhelm,
Guido and her – to have a private tea party on their own without
any outsiders. However, even Leti was not sure whether they could
really hold a simple conversation that was even long enough for
the tea to go cold.
“What is inside that basket?” asked Guido, the prince with the
classic beauty despite his normally grumpy face.
Guido, the Second Prince of Sommevesle, shared the same
steel-blue eyes and golden locks with Leti. Even Leti, who was
undeniably confident about her own beauty, openly admitted her
defeat to Guido. Both the jovial, amiable Friedhelm and the cold,
serious Guido were Leti’s half brothers. But Leti and Guido
looked so similar one would forget they were born from different
mothers.
“I baked a cake for this particular occasion. I knew for certain
you would be serving us tea alone.”
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 7 -
Leti took off the white coverlet of the basket and took out a
small wooden box.
“Sweets are banned here.”
“Stop nagging, you’re a man. Try and learn something from
Leticia,” Friedhelm jokingly said to his fussy younger brother.
Guido warned them again not to litter cake crumbs in his villa,
and then asked the maid to bring out some plates and cutlery for
the cake. Leti deftly cut it into six slices and placed a slice on a
plate for each of them. But no one dared to lift a fork and taste the
cake.
“…How about taking a bite? I did not poison it.”
“Then why don’t you take a sip of tea? I didn’t poison it
either.”
“Well… I just remembered there was this recent poisoning
incident that happened and… Aaahhh… I knew this would
happen!” Friedhelm grudged, slouching on his chair.
It was already expected that the three of them couldn’t
possible have a peaceful tea party. The only reason Friedhelm
agreed to Leti’s suggestion of harassing Guido with cakes and tea
was because he still felt guilty about the last incident 1
. He also
understood what Leti wanted to achieve with this tea party and he

1 See Chapter II.

- 8 -
was in perfect agreement that they had a lot of patching up to do
with regards to their filial relationship.
“I shall be eating the same cake as you will. So if you die, I
shall as well.”
“You baked the cake and cut it yourself. Of course I’d be
cautious.”
“I could not possibly do such a complicated thing of
separating the poisoned portion with the normal one. If anything
outside of the recipe was mixed in to the batter, the cake would no
longer rise.”
Leti, irritated how things were going, dumped the slices of
cake on their plates into the box and shook it.
“Oi!”
“If I do this, you would no longer mind at all, would you? If
this cake is truly poisoned, then they shall find our corpses
together.”
Leti continued on shaking the box, producing unpleasant,
squishy sounds that perfectly reflected the chaos happening inside
the shaking box. Her two older brothers said not a word to stop
her.
“I guarantee you the taste. It will be the same as before but I
doubt it will be presentable.”
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 9 -
Leti divided again the squished cake for the three of them
indifferently. Friedhelm looked at the pitiful cake and whispered to
his younger brother.
“Hey, I already feel bad for what I did, better be one too. Geez¸
why do I, of all people, have to eat a cake like this?”
“…Me too…”
Friedhelm took a bite of the cake and couldn’t help exclaiming
his surprise to its taste. True, the cake no longer looked appetizing,
but it was delicious.
“Didn’t think you could bake. This is good.”
Guido nodded in agreement to Friedhelm’s compliment.
“What’s today’s business?” asked Guido.
“We shall only have small talk for today’s tea party, Prince
Guido. I do believe you are aware that I have gained my first
knight a few days ago.”
“Yes. I see you have started to settle in.”
Guido thought that the topic would be a bragging contest
about their knights, but Leti’s small talk didn’t end in small talk.

- 10 -
“I have a suggestion, and I think this will be fair for everyone.
What do you say about giving me some of your knights, four from
Seventh Heaven2
and five from Valkyrie3
?”
“I refuse,” said the two princes.
“What a pity,” was Leti’s nonchalant reply to the immediate
rejection of her brothers. She took a sip of tea. She didn’t feel any
sting to her tongue, so she was sure the tea was not poisoned.
“That ain’t small talk, that’s business. Small talk means more
trivial topics such as asking how things are going with your lover,
or something along those lines,” explained Friedhelm.
“Lover?” Leti asked, tilting her head to one side.
“Duke?”
“Oh. Well, his face is a little different from my tastes.”
“Yeah, yeah, yeah. Your ideal face is that of Lion King
Alexander, right? I really don’t get what you see in him. I mean,
that portrait he has in the Gallery could warrant him the title,
‘Serial Killer King.’”
“Well then, in the living, who is the best one you like? I shall
search for the one that will best fit your tastes.”
“Play fair, Guido!”

2 Friedhelm’s private chivalric order
3 Guido’s private chivalric order
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 11 -
And in the end, their supposedly casual tea party ended up to
be a business meeting over tea and cake.
While the tea party of the eldest royal children was becoming a
true business meeting, Duke was waiting for his master in the
drawing room usually used by the knights of Valkyrie. However,
the room today was empty, so Duke simply took a random book
to pass time. As he was absent-mindedly reading a line of poetry, a
knock echoed in the room.
“Please excuse me… Oh, Senpai4
!”
Astrid’s head came peeking in from the door. The two knights
were surprised to see each other in such an unlikely place and
asked the other what they were doing there.
“I’m on escort duties to my master. I’m waiting here till their
tea party ends. How ‘bout you? Since when did you enter
Valkyrie?”
“Ah, no, I was being recruited and they told me to take a look
at how they work.”
Duke then understood why Astrid was called to Guido’s villa.
Astrid was the number one unaffiliated rookie of the Royal
Chivalric Order. He was also being recruited to Friedhelm’s

4 Senpai – a Japanese honorific used in addressing one’s senior 

- 12 -
Seventh Heaven and Duke thought Astrid might be joining either
one in the near future.
“Then, Her Highness is here?”
“Surprised? I did not believe it either, but ‘tis true, and even
Prince Friedhelm is here.”
Duke wanted to add that such a gathering would be more
believable if Leti said they’d have a confidential meeting or matters
to discuss with each other when he noticed the change in Astrid’s
eyes.
“Princess Leticia… is here.”
Astrid’s normally gentle green eyes turned into a murky moss
color upon uttering Leti’s name. Duke thought it might just be his
imagination, but his instincts told him to be on guard.
“You’re waiting for Prince Guido, right? Why don’t you
accompany me for a while?”
Duke did not want to leave Astrid alone. He threw his book
away and tapped his fingers on the chess board.
After some time – enough for two servings of tea to get cold –
a maid came in relaying a message that the tea party was already
over. Duke stood up, deciding in his mind what to say to Leti,
whether he’d express his surprise that it ended early, or his
congratulations for being able to keep a normal conversation for
that long.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 13 -
“Next time, I shall bake cookies that are so identical to each
other; you will not be able to tell the difference. So brace
yourselves for that.”
Duke raised his hand a little to inform Leti of his presence as
his master was leaving her brothers with her gruesome goodbye.
“Oh, Astrid, since when did you join Valkyrie?” asked the
surprised Leti when she saw Astrid standing behind Duke. Astrid
blushed and violently shook his head sideways, clarifying that he
was just there to observe Valkyrie and had not joined them.
“And here I was thinking to have Astrid fill in the seat I
reserved for Duke in Seventh Heaven. Hey, Duke, why don’t you
help me in convincing him?”
“Unfortunately, I am the type who lets my juniors fend for
themselves. Princess Leticia, if you would excuse me, I’d like to
ask for a few moments with Prince Friedhelm.”
“You may.”
“Until I return, please stay by Prince Guido’s side.”
It was the best way Duke could think of to warn Leti about
Astrid since he could not say it directly. He then took his leave and
signaled Friedhelm with his eyes to follow him.
“What’s the matter? Is this something you don’t want Leticia
to hear? Like some problems on your night life?”

- 14 -
Duke sighed deeply at Friedhelm’s misunderstanding and told
him it was something serious.
“It’s about Astrid. You already have him investigated, don’t
you? You are recruiting him for Seventh Heaven after all.”
“Of course I had. I’m recruiting him.”
“…What about his past?”
“Clear.”
“…Clear? I see.”
Duke was already starting to feel relieved when Friedhelm
clarified his answer.
“Clear, as in blank. No matter how much we searched and
investigated him, we found nothing. You do know what this
implies, right?”
‘Nothing’ meant Astrid did not come from normal society.
“From the scarce information we got, it seems like he was a
former mercenary, though unaffiliated to any guild. But that still
warrants him as ‘criminal’ in this world.”
“And yet you’re still recruiting him for your Seventh Heaven?”
“Better to have him on my side than the enemy’s. Guido
obviously thought of that as well.”
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 15 -
The ever-so-meticulous and careful Second Prince definitely
already had Astrid investigated and came up with the same
conclusion as Friedhelm – that Astrid would a better pawn than
any other normal knight. Or to put it in a different way, if he was
not yours, then you’d better be careful around him.
With Duke and Friedhelm having their own conversation, the
three – Leti, Guido and Astrid – were left to their own devices.
Astrid, being considerate, took a few steps away from the royal
siblings and did not join in their conversation.
Leti positioned herself somewhere near Guido so she could
shield him if anything happened, and she could still keep an eye
out for Astrid.
“Is Queen Sophia doing well? I have not had the time to visit
her recently.”
Leti began a conversation with Guido while monitoring
Astrid’s actions. Guido, as requested by Duke, decided to
accompany Leti until her knight returned.
“The last time I had visited her was four months ago.”
“Then there is no point in me asking you since the last time I
visited her was three months ago.”
“Do visit her more often. I’m sure she’d be glad to see you.”

- 16 -
“I really want to, but things have been difficult and
complicated ever since I became the crowned princess.”
Guido’s mother, the Second Queen Consort Sophia, used to
adore Leti. She treated Leti like a much younger sister when Leti’s
mother died. She was a very warm and kind person and used to tell
Leti to “take care of Guido.”
‘I am sure it meant to help Guido once he became the king… But…’
Leti did not return Queen Sophia’s kindness with resentment,
but she was doing something near that so it was hard to face her.
“You could have easily come up with a clear decision for this,”
whispered Leti. She wanted to be like Guido, who could clearly
divide things between their merits and demerits, between what
would be advantageous for him or not. But she couldn’t make
herself think that way despite knowing it was the best way for a
ruling queen. Leti silently admitted the only common thing she and
Guido shared was their looks.
Duke and Friedhelm came back only a few moments after they
had just left.
“Prince Friedhelm, Prince Guido, if you would please excuse
me…” Leti bid her brothers goodbye and let Duke carry the
emptied basket.
“…I would not go as far as to call it meaningful tea party, but
it was not meaningless either,” continued Leti.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 17 -
“Well, I think it was meaningless since we did not come up
with at least one agreement of sorts despite having the three of us
present,” Friedhelm declared, despite knowing Leti’s true
intentions for the tea party. Guido did not say anything, but he
was most likely in agreement with his older brother.
“I did not suggest this tea party to have any agreements
between us. But if you feel it to be so meaningless, then let me
make it meaningful now. I shall tell you a hint for my ideal
husband. You did ask me about that earlier,” Leti said to her
brothers with a confident smirk on her face.
“My first love, or rather first loves, were Friedhelm-onii-sama5
and Guido-onii-sama. A pleasant day to you…” Leti curtsied and
was about to turn around when Friedhelm grabbed her arm to
stop her. He looked at Leti with eyes full of sincerity that any other
lady would have swooned and fell for him with his gaze alone.
“Leticia, no, Leti. I…I have hidden this for the longest time. I
am actually my mother’s illegitimate son. She had an affair with a
different man and I was the fruit of their relationship.”
“I do not have anything against your perfect delivery and
timing but I find it irritating,” Leti rebutted immediately to her
brother’s joke. Friedhelm was nothing else but an older brother to
her.

5 Onii-sama: Onii =Older Brother | Sama = formal honorific for a high person

- 18 -
“There was actually a rumor during the time of my birth that I
was switched at birth and…” Now, it was Guido taking his turn.
“You should practice more in your delivery of jokes because
you make it sound truthful,” was Leti’s reply.
Leti was trying to figure out in her head whether Guido said
his spiel because he thought it will be profitable for him or if he
was just simply going with the flow of the moment. Leti sighed,
feeling the heaviness of having stupid brothers. She signaled Duke
to get ready and they soon left Guido’s villa, leaving behind
Friedhelm, Guido, and Astrid.
“Aaaah! Please don’t worry about me! I promise not to
mention this to anyone! I swear!” exclaimed Astrid.
Friedhelm suddenly felt all the tension in him disappear with
Astrid’s unexpected reaction. Guido, on the other hand, was
already analyzing the hint Leti gave and tried to come up with any
point of similarity between them. He came up with the conclusion
that Leti probably liked blondes.
Meanwhile, Astrid felt relieved upon hearing Friedhelm’s
explanation and had his misunderstanding, about Friedhelm being
an illegitimate son and Guido being switched at birth, cleared.
Then he heard a voice whisper to him.
“Today’s not the best time to do it. Kill her some other time.”
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 19 -
The voice did not belong to either Friedhelm or Guido, but
Astrid did not find anyone else around.
“Huh?”
“What’s wrong, Astrid?”
Astrid took another look around, but there was no one else in
the area.
“I thought I heard a voice but… it might just be my
imagination,” Astrid replied, his hands sweating coldly for some
unknown reason.
Duke immediately took his leave from his master after he had
escorted her back to the Royal Villa. It would be his shift soon,
and he had to return to the Royal Chivalric Order’s camp.
However, he remembered something and turned around to ask
Leti.
“Your Highness, what’s your opinion on Astrid? Do you want
him as your knight?”
“As I had said before, taking him in will be troublesome. Any
master who wishes to have him must be fully prepared to accept
him.”
Astrid was someone who unconsciously killed the sound of his
footsteps despite jumping down from a high place. That feat alone 

- 20 -
showed how much he had absorbed in his person the habits of an
assassin. To add to that, he was currently the most likely suspect as
the Ghost Energy’s host. Leti could not make him her knight even
if she wanted to.
“I see.” Duke’s eyes clearly showed relief in Leti’s answer.
Leti wanted to dig deeper into the topic because it was Duke
who had kept on recommending Astrid to be her knight in the
past.
“Is there anything wrong with Astrid?”
“No, nothing.”
Duke still was not certain and had no proof that Astrid was the
one who targeted Leti recently. It was nothing but a hunch, and he
could not tell Leti about it without any proof. It was just one of
the countless possibilities.
“Your Highness, if you have any business with me, don’t go to
the camp alone…no, don’t go there even if you’re not alone. Send
a word and I will come here as soon as possible.”
Leti obediently nodded to Duke’s warning and they parted
ways – Duke to the camp and Leti to her room. Upon coming
back to her room, she went by the window and looked out to
where the Order’s camp was, thinking about her knight and her
knight’s junior.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 21 -
‘Duke is trying to prevent any contact between me and Astrid. I see he
has noticed already.’
Duke would most likely investigate and monitor Astrid as
much as he could. Though it was the right thing to do for a knight,
his actions might limit the Ghost Energy’s activity and this would
work against Leti’s plan to finish this case as early as possible. Leti
liked smart men, but a less smart one would have been better for
this situation.
“Well, if that is the case, this will be the best opportunity for
me to see how far he would go.”
How far would Duke go as her knight?
Leti did not want to involve Duke any further with the Ghost
Energy, but since he was already having his own suspicions, it
would already be impossible to stop him. So the best way to deal
with this was to use Duke and let the Ghost Energy move as it
pleased. That way Duke would have to choose between her and
Astrid, in the end. And if she was not chosen, the wound from
that would not be too deep.
“No, Leti! That is not how you want yourself to be… You do
not want to be that kind of queen!” Leti reprimanded herself.
‘You chose him to be your knight, the person you can trust. It is the
weakness of your heart that stops you from trusting him.’
“Do not use Duke…believe him.”

- 22 -
If Astrid was really the Ghost Energy host, then she would not
let Duke be connected to it, even if she had to order him so. If
Astrid was just a former assassin, then she would give Duke the
freedom to do as he pleased until he was satisfied, and she would
not utter a word about it. The most important point for this case
was to move as carefully as possible, even if she had to rely on
Duke.
‘Please give me the courage to the step forward and the strength to believe,
not the weakness to doubt.’
Leti decided to make a bet and shake Astrid a bit to see if he
really was the Ghost Energy’s host. She asked her servants to
investigate Astrid’s patrol shift and route. Based on the
information they gathered, the best spot for her to wait for Astrid
was by the North Cemetery – the place where the royalty of the
past were to rest, and no one could enter it without permission. It
was the best place to do something that should not be seen by
other people.
Rain had poured incessantly down on Sommevesle for the past
few days. So when it stopped this morning, it was the perfect day
for Leti to put her plan into action. She left the castle and headed
towards the North Cemetery, but upon arriving there, she heard
lively and energetic voices.
“Perhaps they are visiting someone. But none of them look
familiar to me.”
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 23 -
The clothes of the six children clearly showed they were simple
commoners who thought of the cemetery’s big stones and lush
bushes as the perfect place to play hide and seek.
Leti was not particularly bothered with children playing in the
cemetery, but she still decided to warn them like any adult would.
“Children, you should only play here during the day because
monsters and ghosts come out here in the night.”
The children looked at each other, then at Leti with an
unimpressed expression.
“Adults always say that, but we have never seen a monster!”
Leti was used to dealing with children because of the number
of younger brothers and sisters she had. She was not annoyed nor
irritated with the children’s innocent impertinence, and she
smilingly agreed to their observation.
“Yes, indeed. Monsters do not come out here, but a scary
knight will come after you instead.”
Leti was thinking of the former assassin Astrid when a
different “scary knight” appeared.
“Yeah, she’s right. This isn’t a playground. This is the Royal
Cemetery. Go somewhere else to play.”
Leti heard a low, threatening voice from behind. She quickly
turned around and found Duke, sharply glaring at her and the 

- 24 -
children. His face was so scary and threatening, a crying child
would cry louder if his face were seen. Astrid, few steps behind
Duke, was surprised to see Leti outside of the Castle.
With the appearance of the scary knight, the disgruntled
children left the cemetery, leaving Leti pressing her temples at how
things complicated had become.
‘This is all because I was not able to fully read Duke’s actions. It was an
obvious move on his part. He would change shifts to match with Astrid’s to
keep an eye on him. I should have anticipated this much.’
“Are you, perhaps, alone Your Highness? I don’t see any of
your guards.”
Leti thought it best to give up for now and willingly let Duke
scold her and send her home.
“Yes, I am. And yes, I know. I will obediently go back to the
castle,” Leti said, raising her hands in defeat, and then walked
towards Astrid, who was approaching them.
“…A pleasant day, Astrid. I am glad to see you are working
hard.”
“Ah… ah… It’s a pleasure to meet you here, Your Highness!”
No one would ever suspect that the stupidly blushing Astrid
was a former assassin. His personality was his biggest weapon. No
one could doubt him because of it. Even Leti admitted to herself 
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 25 -
that she might have been deceived and not found out about his
true identity if she did not chance upon the opportunity.
“Astrid, I will escort Her Highness back to the castle.”
Duke casually went in front of Leti to shield her from Astrid
when a child tugged at Leti’s skirt. Duke was about to reprimand
the child – even if he did not know who Leti was, what he did was
still inexcusable. But Leti told Duke with her eyes that it was fine,
and she bent her knees to meet the child’s eyes.
“Hey, have you entered the grave chamber, Miss? Do
monsters really come out there?”
“There? Ah, you mean the Underground Burial Chamber
where the kings lay? No, monsters do not come out there, but it is
like a labyrinth, so promise me you will never go inside even if the
lock is broken.”
“A labyrinth?”
“Yes. So promise me you will never go inside.”
The child nodded to affirm his promise, though his eyes were
not filled with fear, but with a sparkle of curiosity instead. He ran
back to his friends and shared his newly gathered information. The
children were already beaming at the door to the Chamber, but
decided to leave since Duke kept on glaring at them. Duke was
certain those children would come back, so he explained to Astrid
why no one was allowed there.

- 26 -
“Make sure to warn off the children whenever you see them
playing around here. They are not just being disrespectful. They
are putting themselves into danger. This area is secluded, and if
ever they get caught up in a kidnapping incident, it’ll be difficult to
get any testimonies from around here. Got that?”
Astrid soundly replied to Duke that he did. Astrid was the type
of junior who obediently listened to what his seniors would say, so
he was generally treated well and kindly, not only by Duke, but by
the other knights as well.
“Astrid, I shall be borrowing Duke for a while. Sorry for
taking him while he is still on duty.”
“No, it’s fine, Your Highness! I can do the patrol alone! Please
take care on your way,” Astrid said as he waved his hand, sending
Leti and Duke off.
“The master and her knight…” Astrid sighed, gazing at them
walking towards the castle.
Duke was just recently knighted, but seeing them side by side
was so natural that it looked like they had been together for a
much longer time. He felt proud seeing his senior that way and
wished that someday, maybe he could also have a master like that.
And then a voice spoke.
“Why didn’t you kill her? It was just one useless man! It was
the perfect opportunity to do it!”
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 27 -
Astrid looked around but found no one who could be the
source of the voice.
“…Who…said that? Was that…me?”
Astrid had been hearing this strange voice recently, and he
knew not who owned it. Or maybe he did.
‘Will I just really be an assassin? Can I not be a knight like Senpai?’
Astrid thought, and his fists clenched until his knuckles turned
white. He thought the voice was from the deep darkness in his
heart because it was the only explanation he could think of.
Duke followed the ever-so-elegant Leti as they walked back to
the castle. He wanted to reprimand her about several things, but
decided not to waste his energy. He knew full well that his words
would fall on deaf ears. So instead, he pointed out a different thing.
“What you said earlier was not a good warning at all.”
“Earlier?”
“You told those kids that the chamber was like a labyrinth, so
they should never enter it. That was like telling them to go inside
and explore it! Fortunately, the door to the Royal Burial Chamber
is tightly locked, and there is no chance of them getting inside.”

- 28 -
Even if the children wanted to explore the Royal Burial
Chamber, it was protected by sturdy doors and locks so they
children could not possibly get inside it even if they wanted to.
Duke told Leti not to worry much about it, but she still cast
her eyes down in thought, contemplating whether she should tell
him about a certain secret only known among the royal family. In
the end, she decided to leave it for now and changed the topic.
“You talk to me respectfully when we are public.6
”
“I put at least that much distinction in public. But if you wish,
I shall speak with you in such a formal manner from now on.”
“I have not reprimanded you about it recently, have I? I have
my reasons.”
“Now that you mention it…” Duke wondered what made Leti
change her mind, and his master proudly provided him the answer.
“At first, I thought you should act becoming of your status,
but then I changed my mind. You are just a youngster son of a
lowly baron.”
“I agree with the lowly baron, but I can’t accept you, a
seventeen-year-old girl, calling a three and twenty year old man like
me, a youngster.”

6 The distinction in Duke’s speech is not that obvious in English (sorry for the
lack of talent to deliver). But in the Japanese original, it is quite distinct. In
public, his language is formal and respectful (keigo) but when they’re alone he
speaks casually to Leti like they are friends.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 29 -
True, the world may still consider him a youngster, a newbie or
upstart, but Leti was much younger than him – so much younger
that she might not yet be still considered under the same category
as him. But Leti was not bothered by Duke’s roundabout way of
saying she was just a kid and even dared looking at him with
teasing eyes.
“Is that so? But I do know something about you.”
“What?”
“That your face is somehow well-liked among the matrons of
high society. And that your scowling face is purely intentional to
intimidate and drive them away.”
Duke’s shock was stronger than the time Leti slapped him.
“What the—! Who told you that? Prince Friedhelm!?”
“No one. I just knew it. That is the reason why you are called a
youngster. But if you could at least seduce or tempt a lady with
that face of yours, I shall take back what I said.”
Duke wanted to answer back, “I don’t want to be told that by
someone who got flustered with a pretend kiss,” but decided to
swallow it all down. He did not know where this might lead, so he
just backed down and scolded himself to act as the adult here.
“Ever since you, the youngster, officially took the First Seat in
my Knights of the Round, I was worried whether you were being
looked down on by the other knights. So I thought that if I could 

- 30 -
show the public right from the start that you are special, we could
avoid meaningless arguments.”
Leti had satisfied the minimum requirements for the “Best
Knights of the Round” when she knighted Duke. All that was left
was to work hard to be the best. However, due to her choice, some
people would think that they should also be appointed as her
knight due to different things, such as the influence of their family
or their status in society. These self-important people were the
ones that might look down on Duke as nothing but a youngster or
an upstart son of a lowly baron.
“You are the only one allowed to talk to me in such a casual
manner. So be thankful for having a thoughtful master willing to
protect her retainer with a weak foothold.”
“Is that so? Then it is my honor to have such a generous
master. But I have my own concerns as well. Take, for instance,
your sweet smiles for Astrid.”
“Are you forgetting that I am the kind-hearted princess to the
public? The only people I do not put up a show to are those who
are close to me.”
“Close to you? How come I never encountered the kindhearted
princess? You were the haughty, high-handed queen with
me right from the start.”
The first words Leti spoke to Duke were, “I appoint you as my
knight. Gratefully accept the first seat in my Knights of the Round 
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 31 -
and bow down to me.” It was Duke’s first time to encounter such
hauteur. He had not even encountered that much from the
arrogant Friedhelm.
“I already meant for you to be part of my inner circle from the
beginning, so there was no need for pretense,” Leti asserted.
Duke was about to answer something in return when Leti
continued on and asked him an unexpected question.
“…I want to confirm something. Who is stronger, you or
Astrid?”
“Our results will be even for a match… at least for now.”
Duke indirectly indicated that Astrid would be stronger than him
in the future.
“I see,” Leti said, and looked at Duke directly, her eyes
piercing and sharp.
“To judge your own abilities objectively is one of your good
points. The two of you are evenly matched in a battle between
knights…”
Leti’s hair swayed and danced in the wind. She quietly asked
Duke, “…How about in a real battle for life?”
Duke felt the weight of Leti’s question.
“Do you remember me saying that any master who wished to
take in Astrid would need much confidence and preparedness to 

- 32 -
appoint him as a knight? I am considering taking him in. And that
is because you are here now.”
Leti openly showed Duke her trust. And Duke, in turn,
understood the meaning behind his master’s words – she believed
Duke would be able to protect her from Astrid, and that when the
need arose, Duke would be able to kill him without any hesitation.
The wind grew stronger, blowing Leti’s golden locks further,
covering Duke’s sight. The wind passed and Leti’s shiny hair
ceased its dance, but Duke still hadn’t answered.
“I shall give you time. Let me hear your answer then.”
Leti had asked Duke if he was prepared. He thought he was
the moment he accepted the First Seat in the Knights of the
Round, but…
‘I’d hesitate, for sure, but I…can kill him. But do I really have the
strength to do so…?’ Duke shook his head, correcting his thoughts.
‘No, I should not even hesitate or falter, for I am the Knight of the First
Seat of her Knights of the Round.’
Leti did not say anything more. She turned around and
continued walking towards the castle. Duke silently followed
behind.

Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 33 -
Later that night after Leti asked her knight’s resolve, she found
herself in the Knight King’s Space and the only other guest was
the Lion King, King Alexander.
“Hey, when are you in?”
Leti answered she had just taken in her first knight. Alexander
hummed silently and stood up by the window.
“Today’s goodbye for me. You do know what I mean, don’t
you?”
Leti understood the Lion King’s complicated yet simple words
and asked to confirm, “Is today the eve of…”
Alexander nodded. Tomorrow was the day he would be killed
by his own knight, prime minister, and best friend who would be
later on known as the Revolution King.
“No! Don’t go!”
“But that can’t be. I will wake up and face tomorrow. I have
long accepted this fate.”
Alexander did not live in Leti’s time. If not for the Knight
King’s Space where the consciousness of the reincarnations of
King Christian, the Knight King, gathered and the concept of time
did not exist, they would have not known each other. But hearing
Alexander would die the next day was not something easy for Leti
to swallow.

- 34 -
“…Then promise me.”
“What?”
“That… you will live. You will live and become a pirate who
will conquer the Southern Seas and be the king of a country there.
That theory existed in my time so promise me you will do just as I
said!”
Alexander laughed heartily and commented that it was an
interesting theory.
“If I do get past this ordeal and live, I will do as you say. I’ll be
a pirate, take over a country across the Southern Seas, and be their
king.”
Alexander reached out his little finger to Leti, and she wrapped
her own to his, making a pinky swear – just like how children
sealed their promises.
“Seeing you makes me think maybe I should have had children.
We may not be directly connected by blood, but having
descendants ain’t bad at all.”
Alexander reprimanded Leti a lot of times, but despite his
harsh words, they were still overflowing with warmth and kindness,
for he considered Leti as his great-great-great-granddaughter. Leti
was happy and a bit sad to be parting with Alexander, and she
wanted to convey this to him.
“I…”
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 35 -
But her consciousness was suddenly drawn back to reality.

“Princess, we are deeply sorry to disturb you, but Sir Duke
is…”
Suddenly waking up to her knight’s call caused Leti to be in a
foul mood. She was in a middle of an important conversation with
Alexander, but then she was able to gradually turn her temper
around upon hearing the gist of the situation.
‘I know it was King Alexander’s last moments…but I have my own
reality to prioritize!’
She told her maid to ask Duke to wait as she changed her
clothes and let him in once she was ready.
“Sorry for disturbing you this late.”
“Quit the niceties. Our priority right now is to search for the
children. Where exactly is the place you need permission to enter?”
“The North Cemetery. We gathered all the available knights of
the Order to search around the vicinity. They were playing in that
area this afternoon, so we might be able to find clues there if they
were really kidnapped.”

- 36 -
Duke had disturbed Leti this late in the night to ask for
permission to search in the North Cemetery to find any clues
regarding the lost children. Technically, it was the King’s
permission they needed, but it was already late and they were not
sure if it was acceptable for them to disturb the King. So they
thought that maybe Leti, the heir to throne, could give them the
permission instead, so he asked her maid to wake her up, all
prepared to receive her anger.
“You may go and enter the cemetery and just report to me
later.”
“If we’re going to simply remind children to stay away, we
wouldn’t have bothered asking for permission. But if we’re going
to do a search, our actions might disturb the place and we need
permission for that.”
“I see. I understand. I also have the biggest responsibility for
this incident because of the warning I gave them which sparked
their curiosity.”
“Responsibility?”
Leti nodded but did not explain any further.
“Let us hurry. Prepare me a horse, not a carriage. There is also
no need for a lady’s saddle.”
“Thought you’d say that. It’s all prepared.”
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 37 -
Duke already knew Leti would join the search when he saw her
maid prepare an overcoat and walking boots for her before he
even went inside her room. At first, he thought he should stop
Leti from coming, but decided otherwise, since he was certain she
would find a way to go there. So it was better to let her go under
his watch than to let her go on her own.
“Oh? You are not going to stop me?”
“If you want me to, I will. Your Highness, please stay here because
it’s dangerous outside,” recited Duke monotonously.
“Only the King, my father, can order me. We are going.”
Duke smiled wryly, thinking how Leti-like her answer was, and
threw her the coat. Leti caught it easily and followed behind
Duke’s brisk pace without lagging behind with her long, elegant
strides. They hurried outside, walking together, side by side.
“Have I ever told you I can ride a horse alone?”
During this time, ladies in their dresses were not supposed to
ride horses astride nor alone. They usually rode horses sidesaddled
with gentlemen leading the horse. A lady of noble birth
who could ride horses was considered strange for trying to
accomplish an unnecessary skill for a lady. Leti simply learned how
to ride one so she would not lose against her older brothers and
knew it would be embarrassing for the whole kingdom if their
ruler could not even ride a horse alone.

- 38 -
“You’re just a princess on the outside, right? I mean inside,
you are exactly like Prince Friedhelm during our Academy days.
Your incognito walks and the inconveniences you cause me. They
are identical.”
“You know your master well.”
“If there’s anything different, you’re a good actress playing the
princess you are truly not, making you the more troublesome one.”
“You really do know me well,” Leti said again, her voice laced
with amusement, no trace of her being offended.
“Princess!? Where are you going at this hour?”
“To the North Cemetery. Also…”
Leti gave orders and instructions to her servants who came
after her, and she told her guards that they may come if they
wanted to. After she had said everything she needed to, she
hastened outside.
Leti and Duke, accompanied with three of her guards, headed
toward the North Cemetery. When they reached their destination,
everyone in the party except for Leti was creeped out by their first
experience of a cemetery at night.
“Senpai! By the West Forest… huh? Your Highness!?”
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 39 -
The only knight from the Order awaiting them was Astrid,
who could not hide his surprise at seeing Leti outside in the middle
of the night.
“Her Highness will help with the search… More importantly,
why are you here, Astrid? Aren’t you off-duty tonight? Where’s
Grantz?”
Duke’s partner for the search was his other colleague, Grantz,
but he couldn’t be seen anywhere. Duke took a step forward,
shielding Leti with his back.
“Grantz-senpai went with the others heading towards the West
Forest. They have gathered information that someone saw the
children go that way earlier today. So he asked me to stay here
instead and relay the message to you. Will you also head to the
forest?”
“Let me think…”
According to the report, the children went to the West Forest,
but Duke did not know how reliable the source of information
was. While he was weighing his options, whether he should go to
the forest or stay in the cemetery, Leti came to a decision and
started moving on her own.
“Duke, Astrid, could you try to move that stone away? I would
like to check all possibilities I can think of before I go home.”
“Stone?”

- 40 -
Leti was pointing towards total darkness, and they could not
see anything. They only knew that the door to the Royal Burial
Chamber was somewhere around that direction. Leti held out the
lamp and started walking there without even minding the dark. As
the lamp lit up the area, everyone saw the stone she was referring
to. It was round, and moving it would need some force.
“Even children can move this stone if they do it together.”
“Have you ever tried it?” asked Duke.
“Yes. I am that Prince Friedhelm’s younger sister, after all.”
Astrid, the youngest in the group, volunteered to try and move
the stone, which was still damp and wet due to the rain last night.
He placed both of his hands on it and pushed with all of his might.
The stone rolled off easily, revealing a hole behind it.
“What the…?” Duke exclaimed.
Everyone, except for Leti was surprised to find a hole big
enough for children to pass through.
“Just as I thought. This hole is connected to the Burial
Chamber. I think that this was a hole naturally created due to
weathering by the wind and rain. As far as I know, only the royal
children know about its existence. The other children might have
heard it from someone or found it on their own.”
Leti brought the lamp closer to the hole and examined it.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 41 -
“A corner of the hole collapsed. I guess the stone rolled back
on its own, covering the hole again and maybe trapping the
children inside.”
Just as Leti said that, there was a trail on the ground of
something sliding in.
“There are also small steps here, and these are yet to dry.
Quick, we should confirm if my theory is true.”
“Can you even see it?” Duke asked curiously.
“Yes, I have confidence in my eyes.” Or rather, confidence in the
dark. Leti could see things clearly even in the night, thanks to one
of the Swords of Promise, the Sword of Black Darkness.
“We cannot go inside through this hole. We are going through
the front.”
“The front…?” asked Astrid.
“Through the front door. The key has arrived anyway.”
And as if on cue, a white bearded old chamberlain on a horse
approached them.
The instructions Leti gave to her servants before she left the
castle was for them to fetch the key to the Royal Burial Chamber
that was managed in the castle. With her complete preparedness,
Duke saw Leti’s other brother, Guido, in her.
“Sorry for calling you this late.”

- 42 -
“Do not be Your Highness. I’m willing to stretch out these old
muscles of mine for children the same age as my grandchildren.
This is also the other item you have requested.”
Leti checked the small pouch the chamberlain delivered.
“Thank you. You have been very helpful. I shall return the key
so you may go back to the castle and rest.”
“No, no, no, no. Taking care of the key is my job. I will wait
here for your return.”
The old chamberlain opened the intricate lock and pulled off
the chains wrapped around the antique door handle. Astrid and
Leti’s guards pulled the doors open, revealing the stairs going
down to the Royal Burial Chamber where the past kings of
Sommevesle were laid to rest. Astrid took a look into the darkness
where the stairs lead and found his knees shaking at the eeriness of
the sight. No one would want to stay inside any longer than
necessary, for the winds sounded like howls of voices in pain.
“I shall take the lead so we will not get lost. A small search
party would be better. Duke, Astrid, come with me. The others
should wait here in case the children find their way out on their
own.”
Leti’s guards did not really want to leave her alone, but
thought it would be fine since her knight, Duke, would be with her.
Leti nodded as they told her to take care. The party proceeded
down the stairs, Leti leading the way with a lamp in her hands.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 43 -
“Watch your steps. The floor is slippery due to last night’s
rain,” warned Leti. She was followed by Duke and Astrid.
No natural light could reach the underground chamber. The
lamp’s flicker was only enough to lighten their steps. It was so dark
that they could no longer see the end of their hands if they
stretched it out.
“Your Highness, you are the most knowledgeable about this
place, so please continue on taking the lead. Astrid, take the rear
and be alert in case anything happens.”
“Roger!” said Astrid.
Duke strengthened his guard due to the current situation. In
truth, he wanted to take the lead with Leti in between him and
Astrid to secure her safety. But with his suspicions, he could not
afford having Astrid near Leti.
‘Her Highness has already noticed the danger around Astrid. I’m sure
she’s on her guard as well.’
Duke could only believe in whatever it was Leti possessed. He
was prepared, on his guard with his hand on his sword, ready to
draw it out anytime. In contrast to the tensed knight was his
relaxed master, her voice normal and calm.
“This underground chamber is vast and complicated. I only
remember the way inside here because I have been coming here 

- 44 -
ever since I was a child, but anyone who would enter here for the
first time would definitely get lost.”
Knight King Christian designed this place to be complicated
and confusing to prevent the place of rest of the kings from being
violated in any way. The path towards the chambers was never
straight. There would be numerous turns to make, and drawing a
mental map would be difficult. Even Leti did not have a clear map
inside her head. It was more of a knowing because of the number
of times she had been in the place.
“But in the end, this is just a grave. Getting there would not
take much time once you know the way.”
“Ahhh… But this place creepy, isn’t it?” Astrid let out in a
weak voice. The place was a grave, after all, and something might
come out at any moment. Duke was also feeling uneasy being
inside the deep, deep darkness, and thought he should have at least
brought holy water with him.
“Uhm… have… have you ever encountered anyone not of the
living in here, Your Highness?”
“Not of the living? Ghosts? I have not seen one ever, though I
really wanted to meet one. I have a lot of questions to ask the
Revolution King – like why he killed his master.”
Astrid shrieked and swallowed his breath.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 45 -
“Se-se-senpai! What should we do if we meet one? Wouldn’t it
be treason if we raised our swords against the kings of the past?”
“Worry first if a sword will work against them. We should’ve
brought a priest with us. Your Highness, do you have any amulets
or holy water we could use?”
“Do not talk to me at the moment. I am currently regretting
bringing the two of you here. I should have just searched for the
children alone.” Leti couldn’t help but be a bit disappointed at the
stupid things the two fully grown knights were saying.
“If I were you, I would be more scared of the living. Which do
you think is more frightening? A bloody assassin targeting your life,
or a ghost of the past simply floating around? The living is a whole
lot scarier.”
“Oh. If you put it that way…” Duke said, agreeing with her
opinion just as Astrid butted in.
“I don’t think the bloody assassin can defeat me, so the ghost
is still scarier.”
Duke decided to scold Astrid later and tell him that he should
agree with the lady for those types of situation even if he had to lie,
but Leti, on the other hand, was not even bothered by Astrid’s
words.
Silence followed their exchange. Only the sound of their
footsteps echoed in the darkness, and the lamp elongated their 

- 46 -
shadows into creepy shapes. The two knights couldn’t help but
truly respect their Princess Leticia, who was fearlessly leading the
way. After walking some distance, the group heard the sound of a
human voice. Astrid shrieked and started to panic even before he
could comprehend the situation.
“A-a-a-a-a voice! There’s someone here!!!”
Astrid turned blue and Duke was shaking, already thinking of
whether or not there really was a ghost. Leti, on the other hand,
gave the two shivering knights a cold stare. The voice they heard
was unlike the howls of the wind earlier upon entering the
chamber. It was distinctly a human voice.
“…Are you two forgetting the reason why we came in here?”
“Eh? Why? Uhm… To save the children…” answered Astrid.
“Ah!”
Duke and Astrid looked at each other, the cause remembered,
and started to work. Astrid ran first towards the direction of the
voice, followed by Leti and Duke. Leti pointed the lamp towards
their direction and told them help had come. Then a small shadow
emerged from the dark and ran towards the search party. The child
grabbed Leti’s gown, crying and shaking. Leti knelt down and
gently hushed the child to calm down.
“Are you alone?”
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 47 -
The child sobbingly answered yeah to Leti’s question. Duke
then urged everyone to hurry outside when Leti told him to wait
and passed the lamp to him.
Leti took out the small pouch the old chamberlain delivered to
her. The pouch contained a water bottle and some biscuits Leti
asked to be prepared for the children.
“Have some water to calm you down.”
Leti gave the child the water bottle, and he gulped everything
down. Leti followed up a biscuit to his mouth before he could
even ask for it. Leti stood up again and took the lamp from Duke.
“You’re surprisingly kind to children…”
“And to women too. Even I share the chivalric spirit of
knights.”
The party started to walk again towards the exit. Leti, with the
lamp in hand, once again took the lead, followed by Duke with the
child in held in hand, and then Astrid. On their way back, Leti
asked the child how he ended up inside, and the story he told
confirmed their theory. The child was able to move the stone and
then he found the hole and went through it. However, the stone
slipped back on its own, trapping him inside, so he searched for a
different way out and ended up getting lost in the complicated
labyrinth. They continued to walk on towards the exit, and when
they saw the door, everyone felt relieved at they could finally get
out of the creepy chamber.

- 48 -
“Duke, I will light up the steps, so carry the child and go up to
the door. The steps are wet and too steep for a child,” ordered Leti.
Duke did as his master said and went up the stairsm carrying
the child. Astrid was looking at them from behind, keeping guard
at the back when his gaze focused on Leti’s defenseless back and
the voice once again spoke to him.
“Her back is wide open! Go and kill her! NOW!”
Astrid felt something crawl inside his head. He unconsciously
covered his mouth and gritted his teeth to stop any sound from
coming out. He also did not realize that he took out the knife he
normally hid under his sleeves. Inside his head, a gruesome scene
played. He sliced Leti’s white neck with the knife, her blood
gushing out from the wound he had just delivered. The blood dyed
her elegant dress into a beautiful shade of scarlet. After seeing her
writhe in pain, he took out his sword and pierced it into Leti’s
stomach, keeping her down on the floor, agonizing in pain as he
left the sword inside her. Astrid’s head throbbed in pain as he
fought against that scene in his mind, and kept on telling himself
that he did not want to do such a horrible thing to Leti.
Then the voice spoke again to him, “Hurry! Fulfill your desire!
Your desire to kill the Knight King!”
Astrid shook his head to drive the voice away.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 49 -
‘I would never do that. She is the next queen, the master Duke-senpai
swore his loyalty to. She is a very kind person and I would never want to kill
her.’
Leti, wholly ignorant about the turmoil happening inside
Astrid’s head, was telling Duke that she was coming up next when
they heard something crack. The next moment, Leti found herself
thrown out of balance, and Duke instinctively reached out his
hand towards Leti. Astrid moved before he could even say look
out.
“Your Highness! Astrid!” Duke shouted as Leti and Astrid
floated through space and hit the ground. They were both shocked
with the sensation of falling down, like their stomachs had flipped.
Pain followed upon hitting the ground, with debris falling after
them.
Drops of water falling down on Leti’s head woke her up. Small
rocks rolled down her dress as she stood up.
“Ouch…”
Fortunately, Leti had the Sword of Iron Steel – the sword of
protection against physical attacks – so she did not have any
wounds or broken bones.
“Now I see why I cannot give this sword away,” Leti
whispered as she dusted off her coat.

- 50 -
“The floor collapsed and it will be impossible for us to climb
back up.”
This accident was already bound to happen based on how the
floor cracked. Weathering due to natural forces had already taken
its toll on the old structure. It had not been a problem before,
since no one normally came in the area, but due to tonight’s
incident, the floor suddenly had to support the weight of three
fully grown adults. Gladly, there was no need to worry much since
Duke was outside and he saw exactly what happened. He was
probably already organizing a rescue party for them.
“Astrid, are you alive?”
“Aw-aw-aw-aw…Your Highness!?”
Leti heard Astrid’s answer somewhere near her. He quickly
stood up when he heard Leti’s call and looked around, trying to
remember what happened to them. He then realized everything
when he saw the hole above them. The voice vanished probably
because of the shock he received due to the fall.
‘I will not do such a thing. As long as I keep my head clear, I will not fall
and give in to the assassin in me.’ Astrid reiterated again in his mind his
resistance against what the voice was telling him. He dusted
himself off and straightened.
“Astrid, you do have a knife with you, do you not? Could you
lend it to me for a while?”
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 51 -
“Eh…?’
“I broke my nail and I would like to fix it before it gets any
worse. I only have a spoon with me.”
A confused Astrid handed to Leti his knife, wondering how
she knew about it. Leti carefully took the knife and slowly trimmed
her ring finger.
“Rest assured, I will not tell anyone about it.”
“Uhmmm…” Astrid took a step back, not knowing what to do
now that he had been found out.
“Your abilities were not due to a talent for swords. What you
have is an ability for killing. My eyes are very discerning.”
“Eh… ah… ah… I-I see.” Astrid was relieved to know that
what Leti referred to was his past and not the murderous thoughts
he was having about her recently. But he soon realized he had to
deny it.
“No, Your Highness, I am not. Really, I am not.”
“If you insist, then you are not. Though I have a question for
you, out of curiosity. Why did you want to be a knight? I am
certain you could have taken over your family trade.”
Leti obviously did not believe Astrid’s denial and continued on.
“You are supposed to be a commoner of Sommevesle, are you
not? But your obviously learned manner of speaking is giving you 

- 52 -
away. You should try and adapt more of the downtown accents.
Better be more careful in the future.”
Leti casually threw back the knife to Astrid, and she clearly saw
with her eyes how he caught it easily despite the darkness.
“I also think you are a bit too flashy for someone in an
undercover mission.”
“No… I am not. I just simply wanted to be a knight.”
“And that is the mysterious part for me. Why would someone
like you, born and bred to be a part of that trade, want to be a
knight?”
Leti continued on with her interrogation, completely ignoring
Astrid’s denial. Astrid saw how much Leti knew. He decided to
give up the pretense and honestly answer her questions.
“…The most important point for an assassin was for no one
to suspect that you are one. So in order to do that, we undergo
training and education to be able to disguise ourselves. It was
during one of those classes that I came across a picture book
about the story of a gallant knight. Ever since then, I dreamt of
living in such a world where power is used to protect and not to
kill.”
Leti knew that the knight world was not that clean and ideal.
And she was sure Astrid knew about it as well, but despite that, he
still looked up to that ideal knight.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 53 -
“Your Highness, have you ever longed for a fairytale’s world
because it was something completely different from what you
know? I sure did. I longed about it because I knew it was
impossible… I truly wanted to be the Astrid I wished I could be,
so I left my home and family.”
Astrid tried before to tell the other assassins about his dream
of becoming a knight. However, they laughed at him and
mockingly told him to give it a try. Hearing that particular sarcastic
remark made Astrid realize that it was exactly what he should do,
to give it a try, so left his organization as the first step in fulfilling
his dream.
Leti acknowledged Astrid’s resolution to make his dream come
true. “I understand that feeling.”
“But I am always worried. Worried whether I am smiling
correctly or talking properly. I underwent training on how to smile,
but I was not really sure whether my smile was how it should look
like,” Astrid said with his usual refreshing smile on his face.
Seeing Astrid’s expression, Leti realized that Astrid only had
one smile. It was likely because he did not know that there were
other kinds of smiles, like a smile hiding sadness, a smile with a
tinge of hurt, or a smile that had accepted everything that fate
might throw at them.
“Everything about me, my smile, my words, my personality.
All of these were created for people to like me… I was not sure
whether someone like me had the right to live in this world.”

- 54 -
“The Knight Academy’s course is for two years, correct? That
means you are only on your second year of quitting being an
assassin. So what are complaining of, youngster?”
Leti, only a year older than Astrid, called him a youngster. If
Duke was there, he would have probably blurted out, “Aren’t you
as well?”
“I have been called the perfect princess, though that title has
recently been degraded to Leftover Princess. Anyway, that title of
being a perfect princess was not given to me when I was born. It
was something I earned for trying and being one for the past
seventeen years. My smiles and my words are all created to be liked
by everyone.”
“Is… that so?”
“Yes. Tell me Astrid, do you like Duke?”
“Yes! Duke-senpai is strong and everyone relies on him. He’s
amazing!”
“Have you ever felt happy when you are with him?”
“Yes. Just recently, he praised me for good work done and…”
Astrid continued on telling stories of what he did with Duke
and the other knights. He probably did not notice, but his
expression was different than his usual smile. He looked kind of
embarrassed, but still happy, an expression befitting his age.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 55 -
“Let me ask you one last thing. Do you know anything about
the Ghost Energy?”
“Ghost Energy? I’m sorry, I know nothing of it.”
“Do not mind it. I am sorry asking such a strange question.”
‘He does not seem to be lying. Besides, if he really was the host, I am
certain he would not have let this perfect chance go to waste. Maybe it is safe to
say that he is not the host.’
Her suspicions against Astrid were not yet completely cleared,
but there was also the possibility that he was a just a former
assassin. The conversation Leti had with Astrid made her think it
might be safe for now to trust him and watch him grow. He was
doing his best to be his ideal self, and he was currently on his way
in making the necessary connections needed to achieve his goal in
the Royal Chivalric Order.
“Remember that feeling you have now and never forget that.
Try imitating me and what I have done these past seventeen years.
Some are still for show, but some had already found their way in
me making them a part of who I truly am,” Leti advised.
“Seventeen years…” Astrid looked at Leti with respect, and
that respect was already turning into adoration.
“Looks like our rescue has come.”
Small stones started to fall from above and they could hear
noisy activity going on outside.

- 56 -
“Your Highness! Astrid!” shouted Duke.
“We are fine! No need to worry!” Leti answered back.
The hustle coming from above suggested there were more
people present. Duke might have returned to the castle first to
organize a rescue party for them. A rope ladder came down next,
and Leti climbed up first.
“…So Her Highness is a senpai doing it for seventeen years,
huh…”
Astrid thought maybe he should just try and do what Leti
advised him – to just do what he could and be patient. There was
no need to rush. Sure, he might still get caught up in the darkness
inside him, but someday, just like Her Highness, doing it for
seventeen years, and just like his knight-senpai whom he admired,
he would reach his goal and be the person he wanted to be.
“Do you want power?” A voice asked.
“Power?”
“Yes, power. Power to be the person you aspire to be.”
“…To be the person I aspire to be…a knight like senpai…”
Astrid’s senpai was a Knight of the Sixth Rank in the Royal
Chivalric Order—Duke Barchet. He was desired to become the
knight of a wonderful master, Princess Leticia, and Duke himself 
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 57 -
wished to be Leti’s knight. Duke was exactly like the knight in the
picture book he read when he was a child.
“Yeah… I wanna be like him… I want to have that power.”
“Then allow me to grant you that power. The contract has
been sealed.”
No matter how much urging the voice did to make Astrid kill
Leti, it did not work. But when he was asked whether he wanted
power to become his ideal knight, he showed a chink in his armor
– he showed the desire to have power. Honest and straight people
like him were weak against intricate deceptions, and the voice did
not let this opportunity pass. It had finally succeeded.
Astrid’s body started shaking, shuddering. Something was
slowly crawling inside him, taking control over his body. His nails
clawed on the wall, screeching as it moved, but the sound was
nothing compared to the storm raging inside him.
“I shall become one with your body and will grant you the
power you wished for… in exchange for your life!”
Astrid opened his eyes, confused, not only what was
happening to him, but also about the unknown memories that
were filling his head. These memories belonged to the Ghost
Energy, the true identity of the voice inside him.

- 58 -
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 59 -
“No! I did not wish for this power. I don’t need your power! I
only wanted to be a... true knight… with my own… strength…”
Astrid’s consciousness cut off, and he was forced into a heavy
slumber, like he was slowly sinking down to the bottom of a
murky swamp. The stiletto turned paper knife that Astrid did not
even know he was carrying slowly entered into his body and set his
insides burning.
“Astrid, you may come up next!” shouted Leti in her beautiful
voice, echoing inside the pit where Astrid was left alone. He
silently climbed up the ladder, and Duke welcomed him, worriedly
asking whether or not he was okay.
“…Yes. I am fine.”
The lamp’s light set Astrid’s body aglow, and that sight was
reflected in Duke’s eyes. However, a different person was reflected
in Astrid’s piercing emerald eyes.
“Oi, Astrid!”
“A steaming hot shower will be refreshing, won’t it, senpai?”
Astrid said in his normal cheerful voice, but Duke was not at all
convinced and knew he should not let his guard down against
Astrid.
“Astrid, stay here. I’m certain the children will no longer dare
come back, but still stay for a while, just in case something comes 

- 60 -
up. I will send additional members once I get back to camp,”
ordered Duke.
Duke was aware that Astrid was off-duty, but he did not want
Astrid anywhere near Leti, so he gave that unreasonable order.
Astrid nodded in acknowledgment and sent them off, watching
them as they headed back to the Castle, leaving him all alone.
“I… I have finally taken over this body! This is truly
wonderful! The best body compared to any other bodies I have
taken in the past! Burning his life force is such a waste!”
There was no one left to witness Astrid laughing like a lunatic
in the middle of the cemetery.
“Your Highness, did anything happen down there with
Astrid?” Duke asked as soon as Leti got off the horse in the Royal
Stable.
“A conversation. Besides, I do not think Astrid is someone
who would do this and that to a lady.”
“Not that. I know you know what I mean. Astrid is…” planning
to kill you, finished Duke in his mind and conveyed it to his master
with his eyes. He knew Leti’s life was in danger, but he did not
have any proof, so the most he could do was to warn her and
remind her to be careful.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 61 -
“Anyway, I’ll escort you until your room. And if anything
happens again, call me.”
Leti’s villa was filled with maids and servants. If anything
happened, there would be an immediate witness. They were on
guard all throughout their walk back to the villa, but in the end it
was not at all needed, and they reached Leti’s room.
“I’m sorry for disturbing you today. Leave the rest to me. I’ll
report to you tomorrow, or rather later. Tomorrow is already
coming.”
Hearing Duke say “tomorrow is already coming” made Leti
remember a conversation she was having with a certain king
before all of this commotion happened.
“—I’ll wake up and face tomorrow. Then I’ll be killed.”
‘Tomorrow is already coming,’ Leti mused. Her time and the Lion
King’s time were different. For Leti, it was supposed to be a thing
of the past, a part of history, but it felt to her like it was only going
to happen when the morrow came.
“Duke, stand right there,” ordered Leti and then she blew off
the candle’s fire.
“Oi!” Duke was about to turn around and ask her what she
was doing when Leti scolded him to stand still.
“Tomorrow is coming.”

- 62 -
“Yeah, it is.”
“Have you ever, in your life, wished for it not to come?”
“Maybe.”
Then Duke felt something land on his back with a soft thud.
Judging from the height and feeling, it was probably Leti’s head.
“…You will never betray me, won’t you?”
The Revolution King was King Alexander’s cousin, best friend
and trusted knight. He was the only person who lived after going
against the Lion King’s opinion. That showed how much he was
trusted, and yet he still betrayed his own master and killed him.
“…You know what, I can’t do it even if you ask me to,”
replied Duke.
Leti softly whispered, “I see.”
There was no better answer than the one Duke gave her. Leti
thought King Alexander might have had these kind of moments
with his knight, and he would never know why he lost it; Leti, too,
had no means of knowing.
“Thank you. Good night,” Leti said and her knight took his
leave.
Leti would probably no longer drift to the Knight King’s
Space tonight. She would simply have a normal dream and hope
that the Lion King would fulfill his promise.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 63 -
“The child did not have any wounds and is completely fine. He
was already scolded by his parents, so the Order no longer added
to it. As for the West Forest…”
The next day, Duke came back to Leti, reporting what
happened afterwards. He was relieved to see she was already back
to the princess he knew she was and not the young lady who
showed weakness last night.
“Lastly, for the Royal Burial Chamber, we have talked with the
Chamberlain regarding the hole and the collapsed stairs. The
Order shall take shifts in guarding the place until everything has
been repaired. That’s all for the report.”
“Thank you for your work. Take this with you.”
Leti took some papers on the table and gave it to Duke.
“What’s this?”
“A list of candidates for my Knights of the Round. They are
persons worthy to be taken note of. They range from being
commoners in the Order to high ranked stupid and brainless
nobles.”
“What is worthy in taking note of someone who’s stupid and
brainless?”

- 64 -
“I did say high ranked. They are more useful than low ranked
fools.”
“Oh. I see.”
Duke looked at the paper and scanned the list.
“I already have the background check of the top ten
candidates. The reports are attached there. They will be your
future subordinates, so you’d better take a look at those.”
“I understand.”
Duke finished looking at the list and was about to read the
background check when the first name he saw was very familiar,
and he unconsciously addressed Leti with a simple, “Oi.”
“I remember telling you that the only person allowed to
address me that way is my husband. Do you have any questions
about the list?”
“Astrid’s name is in here.”
“Astrid Gale is one of the best candidates skill-wise. The rest is
up to you.”
Leti first thought that having Astrid as a knight was
troublesome, but her opinion was starting to change. Astrid’s
desire to be a knight was strong. Maybe she could look over his
dark past and see where his future would go. If left free, Astrid
would probably end up in either Seventh Heaven or Valkyrie. For 
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 65 -
Leti, it would be better if he would choose Seventh Heaven,
because Friedhelm could accept him for who he was, including his
past.
“That is all for now. And one last thing. Do not forget the
evening ball hosted by Lauenstein ten days from now. You will be
coming as my knight, so remember to come in your formal
uniform.”
“Roger that… Though I feel that it’d be more of a marriage
meeting under the pretense of being escorted by Prince
Friedhelm.”
“I agree. He has been preparing for this and has been annoying
me ever since. We shall take our leave as soon as I can think of a
good excuse, so make sure to do whatever it is you need to do and
strike conversation with any lady you fancy early in the night. You
are currently not in a relationship with anyone, are you not? I
suggest you find your partner now, for we shall be very busy in the
near future.”
Duke wanted to answer back with, “Are you my mother?” but
restrained himself and simply said that he did not have one for
now and took his leave to go back to the camp.
“Good morning senpai! Last night was terrible, right?”
cheerfully greeted Astrid when he saw Duke approaching the
Camp.

- 66 -
Duke, fully alert to Astrid’s presence, greeted him back and
told him to do his best for the day. As he passed by Astrid, his
junior slipped something in his hand. He gave Astrid a questioning
look, but Astrid simply looked back, as if he did not do anything.
After walking a few steps, Duke looked around to check if
there was anyone nearby and straightened the small piece of paper
Astrid gave him.
“A message? — ‘Please don’t throw this away.’ What does that
mean?”
Duke checked the paper if there was anything else on it but he
found nothing. Astrid acted like he didn’t know anything about it,
so Duke could only guess at the meaning behind the paper.
The next day, the same thing happened in the morning, and
then again at night. Now that he had received three pieces of paper,
he finally understood what they were for. Each piece was part of a
letter.
Please don’t throw this away.
I have a favor to ask.
Please protect Her Highness. I will…
Duke could not comprehend why Astrid was doing this. He
could have just directly relayed his message or wrote a normal 
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 67 -
letter instead of piecing it out. And every time Astrid gave Duke
the letter, he always played innocent about it. Duke was completely
lost at where, exactly, this was heading – until he received the
fourth piece of paper.
“Please don’t throw this away. I have a favor to ask. Please
protect Her Highness. I will…” Duke recited from memory, as he
had read the messages a thousand times trying to decipher it. And
the purpose of the letter was unveiled with the fourth paper.
…tell you how you can kill me.
Duke was a noble, but he had always worn the knight’s formal
uniform whenever he attended balls and gatherings as a knight.
The formal wear of a Knight of the Royal Chivalric Order
consisted of their black uniform, white gloves embroidered with
the Order’s emblem, and a cloak showing the knight’s rank, which
for Duke was of the Sixth Rank.
Leti said before that Duke was a little different from her tastes,
but the way his handsome face complimented his dignified look in
his formal wear would make her admit that he could make ladies
gather around him. However, his eyes were a bit – no, they were
rather sharp and intimidating, and ladies with faint hearts would
dare not to go near him.
“Oh, Duke! Dressed up, aren’t we?”

- 68 -
“Work. It’s work. I’ll be attending a ball as Her Highness’s
guard for the ball at Marquis Lauenstein’s mansion.”
He was leaving the camp’s quarters when he passed by Astrid.
Astrid was surprised to see his senior in his formal wear.
“Senpai! You really look like a gentleman! Are you going to a
ball with Princess Leticia?” Astrid asked Duke with his usual smile,
but it did not reach his eyes – his eyes that looked like that of a
predator waiting for the perfect chance to catch his prey.
“Yeah, I am. Could you relay a message for me? Tell him to
relax and don’t worry.”
“To whom shall I…”
“To whom it may be indeed. See you later, Astrid,” Duke said,
with Astrid sending him off with a freezing glare.
Leti was never one to be swayed by other people’s moods and
usually ignored them. But since the person sitting across her in the
carriage was her knight, she felt she should at least inquire about
him.
“…Is there anything wrong?”
“Nothing,” was her knight’s reply, despite the fact it was
written all over Duke’s face that he was in a foul mood. Leti 
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 69 -
decided to let the matter go and not press him about it, at least
saving her and him from a debate from happening.
The two of them kept their silence until they reached
Lauenstein Mansion. Duke finally broke the silence as he assisted
Leti in going down the carriage.
“Stay with Prince Friedhelm as much as possible.”
“A true blue member of Prince Friedhelm’s faction, aren’t we?
Did he tell you anything?”
There was no need for Leti to stick with Friedhelm, for it was
he who would be the one coming to her and introducing her to
countless gentlemen he thought were worthy to be her husband,
pestering her for opinions regarding them.
At first, Leti thought of going home as soon as she greeted all
the necessary people, but as she looked at the gloomy night sky
reflecting her mood, she thought she might have to stay longer
than necessary.
“Welcome, Princess Leticia. I am honored you have accepted
my invitation. Now, I’m sure my wife here would be more than
grateful to make her special berry pie for you if you would come
and visit us more often, just like how you usually came to play here
when you were a child,” greeted the current Marquis Lauenstein.
After greeting him, Leti proceeded on to greet his wife, then their 

- 70 -
son, and then the other members of the host family and then…
and then… and then finally done just right in time before Leti’s
throat completely dried up. Now that Leti was taking a break from
greeting people, Duke, who was watching Leti’s interaction with
the guests from afar, approached her.
“Your Highness, I would like to leave my post for a moment.
An acquaintance is in attendance and…”
“You may go and do as you please. I give you my permission.”
Duke, though a knight for this night’s party, was still an heir of
a baron, and Leti was sure he had his own share of greetings to do.
“Thank you. Please stay by Prince Friedhelm’s side during my
absence.”
“He will. I need not come to him; he shall be the one to come
to me no matter how much I avoid him.”
“True enough,” Duke wryly agreed and addressed Leti once
again before he leave.
“Your Highness, I shall give you my answer here. I will not
hesitate to clear any danger lurking around my master… even if
the said danger is my adorable junior.”
“Duke?”
“A Knight’s vow to thee…” With that, he left.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 71 -
Leti had asked Duke before if he was truly prepared to be her
knight, and he gave her the best answer, but she did not feel joy.
What she felt was worry and concern that something was wrong
and that she had to stop Duke from going wherever he was
headed to.
“Your Highness, how do you do? I hope you are enjoying the
night. Your headdress suits you perfectly,” complimented a young
lady.
“…Ah… thank you.” The appearance of another conversation
partner prevented Leti from calling out to Duke. She searched for
him with her eyes and saw him tip his head to her before he
vanished into the crowd.
‘Í shall catch him later and ask for an explanation.’
But Duke never came back after that.
Leti chatted idly with the other guests, elegantly holding a
goblet in her hand and casually looking around, calculating the best
escape route. She had already spent enough time not be rude
wanted to search for Duke already.
“Behind that door is a rose garden full of untamed thorny rose
bushes. It’s gonna be pai--nful.”
“Would you please stop reading other people’s minds, Prince
Friedhelm?”

- 72 -
Leti had distanced herself from Friedhelm all night, but he had
finally caught her. Leti put her goblet down on a tray held by a
servant and accepted that her fate was in Friedhelm’s hands.
“Hey, have you seen Astrid? I wanted to introduce him to
Seventh Heaven tonight.”
“No, I have not.”
“I guess my invitation was too weak. I should have given him a
proper one.”
Leti took a side step to the left, but just as expected of her
brother, he already knew what she was up to and casually grabbed
her sleeve, unnoticed by anyone, and dragged her back to the party.
“How ‘bout that gentleman wearing the blue coat? The one to
your right.”
“…He seems picky, and that is a too-good reminder of Prince
Guido, so no.”
“Aren’t you picky too?”
“Do not group me with that sweets-hating-man.”
Leti’s words made Friedhelm remember that Guido’s villa had
banned all types of sweets inside, and he shivered at the cold
thought. He shrugged off that horrible idea and continued on
marketing his husband candidates to Leti.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 73 -
“Then how about that man with the golden cuffs? The one
with red lining on his coat. He’s the oldest son of Earl Eckerd.”
“A capable person… but do you expect me to marry a person
two decades older than me? I might mistakenly call him father.”
“Your complaints are endless. Well, tell me, who’d be good
enough for you?”
Leti replied with her usual answer, “the looks of Lion King
Alexander, the abilities of Administrative King Karlheinz and the
personality of One-armed King Oswald.”
“In what novel did that King Oswald come from? I already
tried searching, but I haven’t come across him yet.”
“You may come across him in the near future. He is a gloomy
person, but he is capable of finishing things once he decides to do
it. Now, if you could please excuse me.”
Leti ended their conversation there and tried to escape, but he
already knew her plan, so he grabbed her and brought her to the
dance floor. He then signaled Seventh Heaven to bring in
gentlemen that could be Leti’s partner.
“It is an honor to dance with you, my future queen.”
Friedhelm bowed and took Leti’s hand for a dance.
“Give me a clumsy lead and I shall step on your foot without
any hesitation,” threatened Leti.

- 74 -
The crowd cleared the floor for the waltz of the First Prince
and his sister, the Crowned Princess. Leti showed them the perfect
dance befitting her crown – her feet were silent in their steps, and
her form was graceful and elegant.
“You know what? We should show the world that we are
actually in good terms sometimes.”
“Really? I thought the world has already given up and dubbed
our relationship cold.”
“A steamy, hot relationship is impossible, but we can always
have a warm, fluffy one, right?”
They quietly conversed throughout the dance, and Leti, just as
expected of the perfect princess, had her princess smile on her
face the whole time.
“Rain…?”
A different sound mixed in with the music of the waltz. The
sound of water drops and the scent of rain filled the room, but the
musicians played harder and louder, keeping the music alive and
drowning out the sound of the rain.
The roses in the garden bent their stem, the flowers heavy with
rain water, but not Duke. He kept standing on guard outside in the
garden, waiting for someone, even after it had started to rain 
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 75 -
heavily. He took off his wet gloves and threw them away, but they
did not land on the rose bushes where they should have.
“You finally came.”
The gloves did not fall on the bushes because they hit a man.
Duke’s hand was already resting on his sword, ready for whatever
might come.
“…Senpai? Is there anything wrong? You’d catch a cold out
here. Prince Friedhelm invited me so I came to greet him and…”
“Quit your lies.”
Duke did not want to fool around, so he cut Astrid’s obvious
lie and asked him directly, “Astrid, who am I?”
“The Knight of the First Seat of the future queen’s Knights of
the Round… or so I heard.”
“Yes, I am Her Highness’s knight and I am most sensitive to
the murderous intents directed at my master.”
The sun had already set and it was difficult to see in the dark.
The strong rain made it harder to see, and Duke depended only to
the faint light coming from the mansion. But despite all of this,
Astrid kept his smile.
“Who are you? You are not the Astrid who gave me that letter.
So who are you?”
“Letter?”

- 76 -
“A letter he probably wrote by taking back his body for a few
moments to write and give it to me. A letter that said I should
protect my master from himself, from you.”
“Hahaha! That explains those few moments I lost
consciousness! This boy was doing that! What a heroic deed! But
futile! He was asking for the impossible! Hahaha!”
This did not provoke Duke and he simply kept his cool. The
real Astrid, his junior and not the murderous Astrid in front of
him, taught Duke a way to defeat him. Included in that action was
his junior’s wish—for him to be able to stop whatever the other
Astrid was planning to do.
“Don’t worry, Astrid. I will make it happen. I will stop you.”
Duke took out his sword and charged at him.
“Let’s do this Astrid! A fight till death!”
Astrid took out his sword as well and their swords clashed, and
fought against each other, deciding who would live.
The music of the waltz and the pouring sound of the rain
isolated the ongoing battle in the rose garden. No one heard the
metallic clangs of the clashing swords, nor did anyone see the two
knights fighting for their lives.
“You brute!” groaned Astrid.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 77 -
Astrid’s body was still that of a growing adolescent. It lacked
the defined muscles that provided the older Duke his strength.
Duke’s thrusts and charges at him left his body shaking. But that
lack of strength was countered by his agility and speed he had
acquired through his training ever since he was a child.
‘Frontal attacks won’t work on him!’ thought Duke. He may have
more strength, but Astrid, though barely, still had the upper hand
in the battle with his experience. If the battle was drawn out, Duke
would definitely lose once his stamina started waning. He had to
finish this battle before that, for if not, death was the only fate
awaiting him. Gladly, Astrid himself told Duke about his weakness.
My weak point is reacting too much.
Try and throw a small stone at me at a close distance
and I will always try to evade it, making an opening for
myself in the process.
Duke decided that it was about time to do that. He feinted that
he could no longer hold off all of Astrid’s attacks. Then he
removed his left hand from his sword and slid out the coin he hid
in his sleeves. Once the coin was in position, he flipped it towards
Astrid.
Getting hit by a coin was not painful, and there was no
particular need to avoid it, but Astrid’s body moved instinctively,

- 78 -
creating an opening in his stance. Duke would not let this perfect
opportunity get wasted.
Duke’s body moved all on instinct. His heart was yet to follow
on what he was about to do, but he knew he had to.
‘…Do it, Duke! Don’t hesitate!’ Duke told himself. He held his
sword tightly with both hands, raised it up and slashed down
Astrid’s body from his shoulders across his torso. The move was
enough to make a mortal wound and cause Astrid to lose blood…
or so it should have.
“What the…?!”
Duke felt like he was slicing through a boulder. Astrid’s
uniform was clearly cut, and blood was dripping down, but the
wound was supposed to be deeper and blood should be gushing
out.
“I see it does not work as well as the Knight King’s Sword of
Iron Steel.”
Astrid touched the wood and looked at his fingers, dyed red
with blood. Duke’s attack should have been fatal, but no, it was
nothing but a shallow cut.
“Have you finally realized your foolishness?”
And the rain grew even stronger.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 79 -
Friedhelm let his guard down after seeing Leti dance with three
gentlemen, and his sister saw this as the perfect opportunity to run
away and escape the ballroom. She went directly out to the
corridor and headed towards the door leading to the rose garden,
walking as quietly as possible while gazing at the rain pouring
outside.
“Marriage… I guess he does not understand that that is my last
trump card.”
Ever since Leti accepted her fate of becoming the queen, she
had already given up on marrying for love and prepared herself to
marry for the country’s sake. She could use it as a peace offering
should there be a war, or for negotiations, or to calm down any
internal conflicts.
‘How can you expect me to waste that?’ Leti thought indignantly.
“Your Highness, there are still a lot of dashing men hoping to
dance with you tonight.”
“Making a lady dance the whole time is not a good thing. Your
thoughtfulness for ladies is not enough, Prince Friedhelm.”
“I know you’re not someone who’d get tired with that.”
Leti sighed. “You came to search for me, did you not? I shall
only dance three more dances and that is the end of it. If not, I
shall go home right at this instant faking an illness.”
“Three? Why not make it five?”

- 80 -
“I want to end this before my feet hurt. It takes much effort to
dance gracefully.”
Three more dances and that was it. Leti made Friedhelm
accept that condition, and they were about to go back inside when
they heard noises in the Rose Garden. They rushed out to check
when something fell on a puddle, splashing water on Leti’s dress.
‘What the… Duke!?”
Duke Barchet, Leti’s knight, lay unconscious on the stone
floor. Friedhelm, utterly shocked at what he saw, willed himself to
check on his friend and prevented his sister from coming near her
knight. He knelt down to check on Duke, but even before he
could fully examine him, he saw something shiny and smelling of
steel flowing out from Duke’s body. He touched it and knew at
once that the liquid was not rain but Duke’s blood.
“Go inside! Don’t stray too far away… from… me…”
Friedhelm fell on top of Duke’s body and lay unconscious as
well.
“Onii-sama!”
Someone was definitely inside the mansion. Leti looked
around for the attacker. Leti thought that as the crowned princess,
she should run back inside and warn everyone to runaway. Both
Duke and her brother were strong and wouldn’t die that easily. She 
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 81 -
convinced herself that it was the right thing to do and turned
around to go inside when she felt a strong murderous aura upfront.
“We meet again, Knight King!”
In front of Leti stood a man drenched in rain with a bloody
sword in hand. He was someone she knew well. He was Duke’s
junior, the genius rookie of the Royal Chivalric Order, and a
former assassin.
“Astrid?”
“Surprised? Ahahaha! I have wanted to see that face on you for
a lo---ng time.” Astrid laughed like he was mad.
But Leti did not even flinch. Rather, she kicked off her heeled
shoes so she could move more freely on bare feet.
“Were you the one who attacked Duke and my brother?”
“Duke? ...Ah, you mean that foolish man? He held out for a
while, but there was no way he could win against my body.”
“…Ghost Energy. Was Astrid your host?”
“Yes! I had finally found you and should have killed you earlier,
but this boy kept on resisting me. It took a lot of pain to take over
this body. But ‘tis of no consequence, for the things I can do with
this capable body are limitless!”

- 82 -
Leti clenched her teeth, regretting her oversight. True, Astrid
“did not know” about the Ghost Energy, but that did equate to
“not being the host.”
“Your weapon is not a paper knife today, is it? Is the real one
scared and hiding somewhere?” Leti provoked the enemy as she
veiled the turmoil broiling inside her.
“You’re wrong! This body is now mine. This boy is me. When
I attacked you with the slave, we were still not yet completely
assimilated, but it is different now! I can fully utilize my powers!”
The Ghost Energy’s powers and Astrid’s abilities made an
invincible enemy. Leti knew that more than anyone, but she did
not cower and focused her energy to her right hand.
“Come! Knight Sword!”
Leti’s palm grew hot and light gathered around it. The Knight
Sword was the same sword wielded by the Knight King, and it
would answer her call wherever and whenever she needed it. She
was preparing to charge at Astrid, but Astrid had made the first
move and was already charging towards her. The most Leti could
do was to defend herself from his ceaseless attacks.
“Useless, useless, useless! I will cut your throat even before
you can call any of your Swords of Promise!”
Astrid’s attacks were so relentless that Leti could not even
have a moment to think. She tried distancing herself, but Astrid 
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 83 -
would always be right at her neck without even ceasing his attacks.
Astrid, now one with the Ghost Energy, was even smiling,
probably because he found the situation interesting – the Knight
King losing while he was not even giving everything he had.
“To not have a knight with a Sword of Promise worked
against you, Knight King! How much have you fallen?!”
Leti’s breath was going shallow and rapid due to the Ghost
Energy’s merciless attacks. She knew her feet were reaching their
limit but she could not back down. She stood her ground, raised
her sword, and attacked.
“This era is different from the time of King Alexander and
King Karlheinz! There is no need for such power!”
The sword fight continued. Astrid’s sword grazed Leti’s left
shoulder, but she was not bothered.
“What this time needs is trust! Too much power would just
cause war and chaos!” Leti, standing firmly on the stone floor,
again wielded the Knight Sword like it was nothing, for the sword
was a part of her – it was simply like lifting her arms, effortless and
light.
“I had my share of doubts and insecurities. I could have easily
surpassed my brothers with this power. But I chose not to and that
is the only wise decision I have made my entire life!”

- 84 -
Both of Leti’s brothers were excellent in their own ways. It was
because of their greatness that the problem of who would succeed
the throne came up. Leti knew, and still thought that her brothers,
Friedhelm and Guido, were worthy of the crown. If she revealed
her identity as the Knight King’s reincarnation, the people would
have easily accepted her as the heir. But she did not want to do it.
It was wrong.
“I am fine being the Leftover Princess! I shall make it as the
best praise in the kingdom! And even the title Leftover Knight that
Duke was gaining lately!
Astrid! If you are a bit of the knight you wish you were, fight
against that power!”
Lack of exercise and practice had finally taken its toll on Leti.
Her chest was painful and she was already having hard time
breathing. She regretted not training her body before. But she
could not give up. She acted like her body was already giving in
and knelt down with one of her hands on the floor. Astrid charged
at her, and she threw mud at his eyes at the perfect timing. On that
moment, Leti called one of the Swords of Promise.
“Lightning! Come forth!”
Lightning cut through the dark rain clouds and hit Astrid. The
direct lightning strike and the deafening sound of thunder
paralyzed Astrid’s body, and he lay motionless on the floor. Leti
pointed the tip of her sword at Astrid’s neck.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 85 -
“What? Are you going to kill this boy, Knight King?”
“No. I cannot. He is an important junior to my knight. Duke
will be saddened if I do.”
“Then let me go. I shall finish you in an instant.”
“I cannot do that as well.”
There was no known way of saving a person taken over by the
Ghost Energy. Knight King Christian fought with these countless
of times during the war and he had chosen every time to end the
host’s life. Lion King Alexander and Administrative King
Karlheinz followed suit. But Leti…
“I shall make a miracle happen! I believe in Astrid’s pure heart
and his desire to be a knight that was so strong he willingly threw
away everything.”
Leti grabbed Astrid’s shoulder with all her might and told the
Ghost Energy not to underestimate Astrid’s admiration, his wish
to be a knight, and the new bonds he had created with his
colleagues in the Order. Astrid was brought up to be an assassin.
But then he met a persona that was his complete opposite.
“—In the name of the Knight King, I shall knight you.”
The Ghost Energy asked with his eyes what Leti was planning
to do. And he needed not wait for the answer.

- 86 -
“With a sword on thy right and a shield on thy left, dost thou
swear loyalty to me till the day thou die?”
Leti hoped fervently for Astrid’s answer. She held his
shoulders tighter, willing the true Astrid inside to answer her call.
“…Ah…” Astrid’s eyes faltered and Leti saw it as another
opportunity. She repeated the Knight’s Oath once again. Astrid’s
body started struggling, fighting himself.
“Wake up, Astrid Gale! Were you not going to be your ideal
knight!? Wake up!”
And as if in answer to Leti’s reprimand, Astrid opened his lips,
free from the Ghost Energy’s control, and mouthed, “I swear.”
The words Astrid silently uttered were not the formal answer to
the Oath, but it still meant his promise of loyalty, and that was
enough. Leti closed her eyes, removed her hands from his
shoulders and forcefully pressed her palm on his chest.
“Thou art my knight!” I grant you the Sword of White Light to
prevent the darkness from swallowing you.
Leti’s eccentric history teacher told her that the Swords of
Promise might have been a work of fiction for not even one sword
remained, unlike that of the Knight Sword. But the truth about
them was only known by the reincarnation of the Knight King.
The truth was that the Twelve Swords of Promise existed, but they
could never be found, for each of these swords lay inside the body
of the Knight King.
Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi
- 87 -
A sword bathed in light and shining brightly appeared out of
Leti's hand. Its glow was different than the cool, white light of the
Knight Sword. The Sword of White Light was warm and gentle.
Leti brought the sword to Astrid’s chest and pushed it inside him.
“Stop that, Knight King!”
“I am granting Astrid the Sword of White Light, and I am
driving you out from his body!”
What Leti was doing was a true Knighting Ceremony. It was
the same one that King Christian, King Alexander and King
Karlheinz did. The Knight King would grant his knight one of the
Swords of Promise, which would in turn give the knight the
strongest power imaginable. Leti did not plan on giving away any
of the promise swords, but this was a special case, and she had to
do it to save Astrid.
A normal knighting would have finished quickly and smoothly,
but because the words for the Oath were simplified and Astrid’s
consciousness was still under the Ghost Energy’s control, there
was a lot of struggle and resistance.
“Astrid Gale! You are not the Ghost Energy! You are Astrid
Gale!” called out Leti.
Her call reached Astrid, and Leti felt him respond. The paper
knife, the Ghost Energy’s true form, slowly went out of Astrid’s
body and fell on the floor, and the Sword of White Light fully 

- 88 -
entered inside Astrid. Leti's arms gave way and she fell over him.
She was exhausted, but she had one more thing left to do.
“…Just one last thing…”
Leti reached out her hand and hovered it over the Ghost
Energy. She called the Sword of Hell Fire to purify it, burning it to
ashes. Leti turned herself over and lay down on the stone floor
filled with rain. The rain cooled down Leti’s body, hot with all the
action that transpired a few moments ago.
‘I can no longer wear this dress… and it was my favorite…’
She was down and did not even have the energy to lift even a
finger.
“…Your… High…ness?” Astrid’s voice broke Leti's reverie.
Astrid seemed fine already, so she asked him for a favor.
“If you can move, go and fetch a doctor for Duke and Oniisama.
As for me, let me rest for a while. I’m exhausted.”
The rain soon stopped. Once the rain clouds cleared up, the
stars would definitely be mesmerizing. 

OKOBORE HIMETOENTAKU NO KISHIThe Leftover Princess and the Knights of the RoundStory by: Riine IshidaArt by: Ichiko OkiyaBrought to you by: AQUA ScansCredits: Raws: Icarus Bride Translation: Crystal Hikari Proofreading: Fallinwind Quality Checking: MizuoujiTranslator's notes:The Japanese honorifics were kept in the translation of the dialogues ofthe characters to show the respect or adoration shown by the characters.Footnotes were provided upon the first appearance of the honorific inthe chapter to explain it.Thoughts are signified by italics'.CHAPTER III THE KNIGHT AND THE ASSASSIN- 4 -The Royal family of Sommevesle, the high ranking officials ofthe Royal Chivalric Order and all knights not on guarding dutygathered in the Great Hall of the Royal Castle for an importantceremony. The atmosphere inside the Hall was tense. An event asgrand as this was very rare and all those in attendance would serveas witnesses as their future queen knighted the Knight of the FirstSeat of her Knights of the Round.Astrid, seated at the back in the audience seat, gazed from afarhis senior and the princess he so admired.This is my first time seeing a knighting ceremony.'When Astrid heard that Duke accepted Leti's invitation to beher knight, he asked his senior why because Duke had hated thenotion before. And Duke's answer was, because she is a masterworth offering my life to.That was probably the answer Astrid was hoping to hear allalong. When he asked other knights why they swore loyalty totheir masters, most of their answers were because of duty orbecause they were invited.They will truly mean every word in the Knight's Oath.'Leti wanted Duke to be her knight. Duke wanted Leti to be hismaster. This was how the Knight's Oath should be, both partieswishing for the other. Astrid enviously looked at the two personshe respected.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 5 -Leti, in her beautiful white dress, stood in front of Duke, whowas kneeling on one knee with his head bowed deeply.With a sword on thy right and a shield on thy left, dost thouswear loyalty to me till the day thou die? The master's dignifiedvoice filled the Great Hall like a wonderful melody. Then theknight, with an equally dignified voice, answered his master's call.With a sword on my right and shield on my left, I swearloyalty to thee, my master, till the day I die.Thou art my knight.Leti passed on the half-closed sword to Duke. Duke thenreturned the sword to its sheath, and this metallic sound declaredto all that the knighting ceremony was over. The crowd cheeredand applauded. Astrid joined in his hands as well.But I wonder why'Astrid couldn't comprehend why he suddenly wanted to stainLeti's immaculately white dress scarlet.Leti could no longer be the carefree princess she was before.In other words, she couldn't let herself be occupied about theassassin incident any longer. She had to prioritize herresponsibilities as the crown princess, and today's tea party waspart of that.- 6 -Duke, stay here. A maid shall come to show you the way to adrawing room where you can stay for the while.Leti left Duke and opened an ornate door with her one handsince the other was occupied with a big basket.A good day to you Prince Guido, Prince Friedhelm, today'sweather is perfect for a tea party, is it not?The weather was a heavily clouded sky, as if representing therelationship between the three eldest royal children of Sommevesle.Leti was the one who suggested for the three of them Friedhelm,Guido and her to have a private tea party on their own withoutany outsiders. However, even Leti was not sure whether they couldreally hold a simple conversation that was even long enough forthe tea to go cold.What is inside that basket? asked Guido, the prince with theclassic beauty despite his normally grumpy face.Guido, the Second Prince of Sommevesle, shared the samesteel-blue eyes and golden locks with Leti. Even Leti, who wasundeniably confident about her own beauty, openly admitted herdefeat to Guido. Both the jovial, amiable Friedhelm and the cold,serious Guido were Leti's half brothers. But Leti and Guidolooked so similar one would forget they were born from differentmothers.I baked a cake for this particular occasion. I knew for certainyou would be serving us tea alone.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 7 -Leti took off the white coverlet of the basket and took out asmall wooden box.Sweets are banned here.Stop nagging, you're a man. Try and learn something fromLeticia, Friedhelm jokingly said to his fussy younger brother.Guido warned them again not to litter cake crumbs in his villa,and then asked the maid to bring out some plates and cutlery forthe cake. Leti deftly cut it into six slices and placed a slice on aplate for each of them. But no one dared to lift a fork and taste thecake.How about taking a bite? I did not poison it.Then why don't you take a sip of tea? I didn't poison iteither.Well I just remembered there was this recent poisoningincident that happened and Aaahhh I knew this wouldhappen! Friedhelm grudged, slouching on his chair.It was already expected that the three of them couldn'tpossible have a peaceful tea party. The only reason Friedhelmagreed to Leti's suggestion of harassing Guido with cakes and teawas because he still felt guilty about the last incident 1. He alsounderstood what Leti wanted to achieve with this tea party and he1 See Chapter II.- 8 -was in perfect agreement that they had a lot of patching up to dowith regards to their filial relationship.I shall be eating the same cake as you will. So if you die, Ishall as well.You baked the cake and cut it yourself. Of course I'd becautious.I could not possibly do such a complicated thing ofseparating the poisoned portion with the normal one. If anythingoutside of the recipe was mixed in to the batter, the cake would nolonger rise.Leti, irritated how things were going, dumped the slices ofcake on their plates into the box and shook it.Oi!If I do this, you would no longer mind at all, would you? Ifthis cake is truly poisoned, then they shall find our corpsestogether.Leti continued on shaking the box, producing unpleasant,squishy sounds that perfectly reflected the chaos happening insidethe shaking box. Her two older brothers said not a word to stopher.I guarantee you the taste. It will be the same as before but Idoubt it will be presentable.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 9 -Leti divided again the squished cake for the three of themindifferently. Friedhelm looked at the pitiful cake and whispered tohis younger brother.Hey, I already feel bad for what I did, better be one too. Geezwhy do I, of all people, have to eat a cake like this?Me tooFriedhelm took a bite of the cake and couldn't help exclaiminghis surprise to its taste. True, the cake no longer looked appetizing,but it was delicious.Didn't think you could bake. This is good.Guido nodded in agreement to Friedhelm's compliment.What's today's business? asked Guido.We shall only have small talk for today's tea party, PrinceGuido. I do believe you are aware that I have gained my firstknight a few days ago.Yes. I see you have started to settle in.Guido thought that the topic would be a bragging contestabout their knights, but Leti's small talk didn't end in small talk.- 10 -I have a suggestion, and I think this will be fair for everyone.What do you say about giving me some of your knights, four fromSeventh Heaven2and five from Valkyrie3?I refuse, said the two princes.What a pity, was Leti's nonchalant reply to the immediaterejection of her brothers. She took a sip of tea. She didn't feel anysting to her tongue, so she was sure the tea was not poisoned.That ain't small talk, that's business. Small talk means moretrivial topics such as asking how things are going with your lover,or something along those lines, explained Friedhelm.Lover? Leti asked, tilting her head to one side.Duke?Oh. Well, his face is a little different from my tastes.Yeah, yeah, yeah. Your ideal face is that of Lion KingAlexander, right? I really don't get what you see in him. I mean,that portrait he has in the Gallery could warrant him the title,Serial Killer King.'Well then, in the living, who is the best one you like? I shallsearch for the one that will best fit your tastes.Play fair, Guido!2 Friedhelm's private chivalric order3 Guido's private chivalric orderOkobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 11 -And in the end, their supposedly casual tea party ended up tobe a business meeting over tea and cake.While the tea party of the eldest royal children was becoming atrue business meeting, Duke was waiting for his master in thedrawing room usually used by the knights of Valkyrie. However,the room today was empty, so Duke simply took a random bookto pass time. As he was absent-mindedly reading a line of poetry, aknock echoed in the room.Please excuse me Oh, Senpai4!Astrid's head came peeking in from the door. The two knightswere surprised to see each other in such an unlikely place andasked the other what they were doing there.I'm on escort duties to my master. I'm waiting here till theirtea party ends. How bout you? Since when did you enterValkyrie?Ah, no, I was being recruited and they told me to take a lookat how they work.Duke then understood why Astrid was called to Guido's villa.Astrid was the number one unaffiliated rookie of the RoyalChivalric Order. He was also being recruited to Friedhelm's4 Senpai a Japanese honorific used in addressing one's senior- 12 -Seventh Heaven and Duke thought Astrid might be joining eitherone in the near future.Then, Her Highness is here?Surprised? I did not believe it either, but tis true, and evenPrince Friedhelm is here.Duke wanted to add that such a gathering would be morebelievable if Leti said they'd have a confidential meeting or mattersto discuss with each other when he noticed the change in Astrid'seyes.Princess Leticia is here.Astrid's normally gentle green eyes turned into a murky mosscolor upon uttering Leti's name. Duke thought it might just be hisimagination, but his instincts told him to be on guard.You're waiting for Prince Guido, right? Why don't youaccompany me for a while?Duke did not want to leave Astrid alone. He threw his bookaway and tapped his fingers on the chess board.After some time enough for two servings of tea to get cold a maid came in relaying a message that the tea party was alreadyover. Duke stood up, deciding in his mind what to say to Leti,whether he'd express his surprise that it ended early, or hiscongratulations for being able to keep a normal conversation forthat long.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 13 -Next time, I shall bake cookies that are so identical to eachother; you will not be able to tell the difference. So braceyourselves for that.Duke raised his hand a little to inform Leti of his presence ashis master was leaving her brothers with her gruesome goodbye.Oh, Astrid, since when did you join Valkyrie? asked thesurprised Leti when she saw Astrid standing behind Duke. Astridblushed and violently shook his head sideways, clarifying that hewas just there to observe Valkyrie and had not joined them.And here I was thinking to have Astrid fill in the seat Ireserved for Duke in Seventh Heaven. Hey, Duke, why don't youhelp me in convincing him?Unfortunately, I am the type who lets my juniors fend forthemselves. Princess Leticia, if you would excuse me, I'd like toask for a few moments with Prince Friedhelm.You may.Until I return, please stay by Prince Guido's side.It was the best way Duke could think of to warn Leti aboutAstrid since he could not say it directly. He then took his leave andsignaled Friedhelm with his eyes to follow him.What's the matter? Is this something you don't want Leticiato hear? Like some problems on your night life?- 14 -Duke sighed deeply at Friedhelm's misunderstanding and toldhim it was something serious.It's about Astrid. You already have him investigated, don'tyou? You are recruiting him for Seventh Heaven after all.Of course I had. I'm recruiting him.What about his past?Clear.Clear? I see.Duke was already starting to feel relieved when Friedhelmclarified his answer.Clear, as in blank. No matter how much we searched andinvestigated him, we found nothing. You do know what thisimplies, right?Nothing' meant Astrid did not come from normal society.From the scarce information we got, it seems like he was aformer mercenary, though unaffiliated to any guild. But that stillwarrants him as criminal' in this world.And yet you're still recruiting him for your Seventh Heaven?Better to have him on my side than the enemy's. Guidoobviously thought of that as well.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 15 -The ever-so-meticulous and careful Second Prince definitelyalready had Astrid investigated and came up with the sameconclusion as Friedhelm that Astrid would a better pawn thanany other normal knight. Or to put it in a different way, if he wasnot yours, then you'd better be careful around him.With Duke and Friedhelm having their own conversation, thethree Leti, Guido and Astrid were left to their own devices.Astrid, being considerate, took a few steps away from the royalsiblings and did not join in their conversation.Leti positioned herself somewhere near Guido so she couldshield him if anything happened, and she could still keep an eyeout for Astrid.Is Queen Sophia doing well? I have not had the time to visither recently.Leti began a conversation with Guido while monitoringAstrid's actions. Guido, as requested by Duke, decided toaccompany Leti until her knight returned.The last time I had visited her was four months ago.Then there is no point in me asking you since the last time Ivisited her was three months ago.Do visit her more often. I'm sure she'd be glad to see you.- 16 -I really want to, but things have been difficult andcomplicated ever since I became the crowned princess.Guido's mother, the Second Queen Consort Sophia, used toadore Leti. She treated Leti like a much younger sister when Leti'smother died. She was a very warm and kind person and used to tellLeti to take care of Guido.I am sure it meant to help Guido once he became the king But'Leti did not return Queen Sophia's kindness with resentment,but she was doing something near that so it was hard to face her.You could have easily come up with a clear decision for this,whispered Leti. She wanted to be like Guido, who could clearlydivide things between their merits and demerits, between whatwould be advantageous for him or not. But she couldn't makeherself think that way despite knowing it was the best way for aruling queen. Leti silently admitted the only common thing she andGuido shared was their looks.Duke and Friedhelm came back only a few moments after theyhad just left.Prince Friedhelm, Prince Guido, if you would please excuseme Leti bid her brothers goodbye and let Duke carry theemptied basket.I would not go as far as to call it meaningful tea party, butit was not meaningless either, continued Leti.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 17 -Well, I think it was meaningless since we did not come upwith at least one agreement of sorts despite having the three of uspresent, Friedhelm declared, despite knowing Leti's trueintentions for the tea party. Guido did not say anything, but hewas most likely in agreement with his older brother.I did not suggest this tea party to have any agreementsbetween us. But if you feel it to be so meaningless, then let memake it meaningful now. I shall tell you a hint for my idealhusband. You did ask me about that earlier, Leti said to herbrothers with a confident smirk on her face.My first love, or rather first loves, were Friedhelm-onii-sama5and Guido-onii-sama. A pleasant day to you Leti curtsied andwas about to turn around when Friedhelm grabbed her arm tostop her. He looked at Leti with eyes full of sincerity that any otherlady would have swooned and fell for him with his gaze alone.Leticia, no, Leti. II have hidden this for the longest time. Iam actually my mother's illegitimate son. She had an affair with adifferent man and I was the fruit of their relationship.I do not have anything against your perfect delivery andtiming but I find it irritating, Leti rebutted immediately to herbrother's joke. Friedhelm was nothing else but an older brother toher.5 Onii-sama: Onii =Older Brother | Sama = formal honorific for a high person- 18 -There was actually a rumor during the time of my birth that Iwas switched at birth and Now, it was Guido taking his turn.You should practice more in your delivery of jokes becauseyou make it sound truthful, was Leti's reply.Leti was trying to figure out in her head whether Guido saidhis spiel because he thought it will be profitable for him or if hewas just simply going with the flow of the moment. Leti sighed,feeling the heaviness of having stupid brothers. She signaled Duketo get ready and they soon left Guido's villa, leaving behindFriedhelm, Guido, and Astrid.Aaaah! Please don't worry about me! I promise not tomention this to anyone! I swear! exclaimed Astrid.Friedhelm suddenly felt all the tension in him disappear withAstrid's unexpected reaction. Guido, on the other hand, wasalready analyzing the hint Leti gave and tried to come up with anypoint of similarity between them. He came up with the conclusionthat Leti probably liked blondes.Meanwhile, Astrid felt relieved upon hearing Friedhelm'sexplanation and had his misunderstanding, about Friedhelm beingan illegitimate son and Guido being switched at birth, cleared.Then he heard a voice whisper to him.Today's not the best time to do it. Kill her some other time.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 19 -The voice did not belong to either Friedhelm or Guido, butAstrid did not find anyone else around.Huh?What's wrong, Astrid?Astrid took another look around, but there was no one else inthe area.I thought I heard a voice but it might just be myimagination, Astrid replied, his hands sweating coldly for someunknown reason.Duke immediately took his leave from his master after he hadescorted her back to the Royal Villa. It would be his shift soon,and he had to return to the Royal Chivalric Order's camp.However, he remembered something and turned around to askLeti.Your Highness, what's your opinion on Astrid? Do you wanthim as your knight?As I had said before, taking him in will be troublesome. Anymaster who wishes to have him must be fully prepared to accepthim.Astrid was someone who unconsciously killed the sound of hisfootsteps despite jumping down from a high place. That feat alone- 20 -showed how much he had absorbed in his person the habits of anassassin. To add to that, he was currently the most likely suspect asthe Ghost Energy's host. Leti could not make him her knight evenif she wanted to.I see. Duke's eyes clearly showed relief in Leti's answer.Leti wanted to dig deeper into the topic because it was Dukewho had kept on recommending Astrid to be her knight in thepast.Is there anything wrong with Astrid?No, nothing.Duke still was not certain and had no proof that Astrid was theone who targeted Leti recently. It was nothing but a hunch, and hecould not tell Leti about it without any proof. It was just one ofthe countless possibilities.Your Highness, if you have any business with me, don't go tothe camp aloneno, don't go there even if you're not alone. Senda word and I will come here as soon as possible.Leti obediently nodded to Duke's warning and they partedways Duke to the camp and Leti to her room. Upon comingback to her room, she went by the window and looked out towhere the Order's camp was, thinking about her knight and herknight's junior.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 21 -Duke is trying to prevent any contact between me and Astrid. I see hehas noticed already.'Duke would most likely investigate and monitor Astrid asmuch as he could. Though it was the right thing to do for a knight,his actions might limit the Ghost Energy's activity and this wouldwork against Leti's plan to finish this case as early as possible. Letiliked smart men, but a less smart one would have been better forthis situation.Well, if that is the case, this will be the best opportunity forme to see how far he would go.How far would Duke go as her knight?Leti did not want to involve Duke any further with the GhostEnergy, but since he was already having his own suspicions, itwould already be impossible to stop him. So the best way to dealwith this was to use Duke and let the Ghost Energy move as itpleased. That way Duke would have to choose between her andAstrid, in the end. And if she was not chosen, the wound fromthat would not be too deep.No, Leti! That is not how you want yourself to be You donot want to be that kind of queen! Leti reprimanded herself.You chose him to be your knight, the person you can trust. It is theweakness of your heart that stops you from trusting him.'Do not use Dukebelieve him.- 22 -If Astrid was really the Ghost Energy host, then she would notlet Duke be connected to it, even if she had to order him so. IfAstrid was just a former assassin, then she would give Duke thefreedom to do as he pleased until he was satisfied, and she wouldnot utter a word about it. The most important point for this casewas to move as carefully as possible, even if she had to rely onDuke.Please give me the courage to the step forward and the strength to believe,not the weakness to doubt.'Leti decided to make a bet and shake Astrid a bit to see if hereally was the Ghost Energy's host. She asked her servants toinvestigate Astrid's patrol shift and route. Based on theinformation they gathered, the best spot for her to wait for Astridwas by the North Cemetery the place where the royalty of thepast were to rest, and no one could enter it without permission. Itwas the best place to do something that should not be seen byother people.Rain had poured incessantly down on Sommevesle for the pastfew days. So when it stopped this morning, it was the perfect dayfor Leti to put her plan into action. She left the castle and headedtowards the North Cemetery, but upon arriving there, she heardlively and energetic voices.Perhaps they are visiting someone. But none of them lookfamiliar to me.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 23 -The clothes of the six children clearly showed they were simplecommoners who thought of the cemetery's big stones and lushbushes as the perfect place to play hide and seek.Leti was not particularly bothered with children playing in thecemetery, but she still decided to warn them like any adult would.Children, you should only play here during the day becausemonsters and ghosts come out here in the night.The children looked at each other, then at Leti with anunimpressed expression.Adults always say that, but we have never seen a monster!Leti was used to dealing with children because of the numberof younger brothers and sisters she had. She was not annoyed norirritated with the children's innocent impertinence, and shesmilingly agreed to their observation.Yes, indeed. Monsters do not come out here, but a scaryknight will come after you instead.Leti was thinking of the former assassin Astrid when adifferent scary knight appeared.Yeah, she's right. This isn't a playground. This is the RoyalCemetery. Go somewhere else to play.Leti heard a low, threatening voice from behind. She quicklyturned around and found Duke, sharply glaring at her and the- 24 -children. His face was so scary and threatening, a crying childwould cry louder if his face were seen. Astrid, few steps behindDuke, was surprised to see Leti outside of the Castle.With the appearance of the scary knight, the disgruntledchildren left the cemetery, leaving Leti pressing her temples at howthings complicated had become.This is all because I was not able to fully read Duke's actions. It was anobvious move on his part. He would change shifts to match with Astrid's tokeep an eye on him. I should have anticipated this much.'Are you, perhaps, alone Your Highness? I don't see any ofyour guards.Leti thought it best to give up for now and willingly let Dukescold her and send her home.Yes, I am. And yes, I know. I will obediently go back to thecastle, Leti said, raising her hands in defeat, and then walkedtowards Astrid, who was approaching them.A pleasant day, Astrid. I am glad to see you are workinghard.Ah ah It's a pleasure to meet you here, Your Highness!No one would ever suspect that the stupidly blushing Astridwas a former assassin. His personality was his biggest weapon. Noone could doubt him because of it. Even Leti admitted to herselfOkobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 25 -that she might have been deceived and not found out about histrue identity if she did not chance upon the opportunity.Astrid, I will escort Her Highness back to the castle.Duke casually went in front of Leti to shield her from Astridwhen a child tugged at Leti's skirt. Duke was about to reprimandthe child even if he did not know who Leti was, what he did wasstill inexcusable. But Leti told Duke with her eyes that it was fine,and she bent her knees to meet the child's eyes.Hey, have you entered the grave chamber, Miss? Domonsters really come out there?There? Ah, you mean the Underground Burial Chamberwhere the kings lay? No, monsters do not come out there, but it islike a labyrinth, so promise me you will never go inside even if thelock is broken.A labyrinth?Yes. So promise me you will never go inside.The child nodded to affirm his promise, though his eyes werenot filled with fear, but with a sparkle of curiosity instead. He ranback to his friends and shared his newly gathered information. Thechildren were already beaming at the door to the Chamber, butdecided to leave since Duke kept on glaring at them. Duke wascertain those children would come back, so he explained to Astridwhy no one was allowed there.- 26 -Make sure to warn off the children whenever you see themplaying around here. They are not just being disrespectful. Theyare putting themselves into danger. This area is secluded, and ifever they get caught up in a kidnapping incident, it'll be difficult toget any testimonies from around here. Got that?Astrid soundly replied to Duke that he did. Astrid was the typeof junior who obediently listened to what his seniors would say, sohe was generally treated well and kindly, not only by Duke, but bythe other knights as well.Astrid, I shall be borrowing Duke for a while. Sorry fortaking him while he is still on duty.No, it's fine, Your Highness! I can do the patrol alone! Pleasetake care on your way, Astrid said as he waved his hand, sendingLeti and Duke off.The master and her knight Astrid sighed, gazing at themwalking towards the castle.Duke was just recently knighted, but seeing them side by sidewas so natural that it looked like they had been together for amuch longer time. He felt proud seeing his senior that way andwished that someday, maybe he could also have a master like that.And then a voice spoke.Why didn't you kill her? It was just one useless man! It wasthe perfect opportunity to do it!Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 27 -Astrid looked around but found no one who could be thesource of the voice.Whosaid that? Was thatme?Astrid had been hearing this strange voice recently, and heknew not who owned it. Or maybe he did.Will I just really be an assassin? Can I not be a knight like Senpai?'Astrid thought, and his fists clenched until his knuckles turnedwhite. He thought the voice was from the deep darkness in hisheart because it was the only explanation he could think of.Duke followed the ever-so-elegant Leti as they walked back tothe castle. He wanted to reprimand her about several things, butdecided not to waste his energy. He knew full well that his wordswould fall on deaf ears. So instead, he pointed out a different thing.What you said earlier was not a good warning at all.Earlier?You told those kids that the chamber was like a labyrinth, sothey should never enter it. That was like telling them to go insideand explore it! Fortunately, the door to the Royal Burial Chamberis tightly locked, and there is no chance of them getting inside.- 28 -Even if the children wanted to explore the Royal BurialChamber, it was protected by sturdy doors and locks so theychildren could not possibly get inside it even if they wanted to.Duke told Leti not to worry much about it, but she still casther eyes down in thought, contemplating whether she should tellhim about a certain secret only known among the royal family. Inthe end, she decided to leave it for now and changed the topic.You talk to me respectfully when we are public.6I put at least that much distinction in public. But if you wish,I shall speak with you in such a formal manner from now on.I have not reprimanded you about it recently, have I? I havemy reasons.Now that you mention it Duke wondered what made Letichange her mind, and his master proudly provided him the answer.At first, I thought you should act becoming of your status,but then I changed my mind. You are just a youngster son of alowly baron.I agree with the lowly baron, but I can't accept you, aseventeen-year-old girl, calling a three and twenty year old man likeme, a youngster.6 The distinction in Duke's speech is not that obvious in English sorry for thelack of talent to deliver. But in the Japanese original, it is quite distinct. Inpublic, his language is formal and respectful keigo but when they're alone hespeaks casually to Leti like they are friends.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 29 -True, the world may still consider him a youngster, a newbie orupstart, but Leti was much younger than him so much youngerthat she might not yet be still considered under the same categoryas him. But Leti was not bothered by Duke's roundabout way ofsaying she was just a kid and even dared looking at him withteasing eyes.Is that so? But I do know something about you.What?That your face is somehow well-liked among the matrons ofhigh society. And that your scowling face is purely intentional tointimidate and drive them away.Duke's shock was stronger than the time Leti slapped him.What the! Who told you that? Prince Friedhelm!?No one. I just knew it. That is the reason why you are called ayoungster. But if you could at least seduce or tempt a lady withthat face of yours, I shall take back what I said.Duke wanted to answer back, I don't want to be told that bysomeone who got flustered with a pretend kiss, but decided toswallow it all down. He did not know where this might lead, so hejust backed down and scolded himself to act as the adult here.Ever since you, the youngster, officially took the First Seat inmy Knights of the Round, I was worried whether you were beinglooked down on by the other knights. So I thought that if I could- 30 -show the public right from the start that you are special, we couldavoid meaningless arguments.Leti had satisfied the minimum requirements for the BestKnights of the Round when she knighted Duke. All that was leftwas to work hard to be the best. However, due to her choice, somepeople would think that they should also be appointed as herknight due to different things, such as the influence of their familyor their status in society. These self-important people were theones that might look down on Duke as nothing but a youngster oran upstart son of a lowly baron.You are the only one allowed to talk to me in such a casualmanner. So be thankful for having a thoughtful master willing toprotect her retainer with a weak foothold.Is that so? Then it is my honor to have such a generousmaster. But I have my own concerns as well. Take, for instance,your sweet smiles for Astrid.Are you forgetting that I am the kind-hearted princess to thepublic? The only people I do not put up a show to are those whoare close to me.Close to you? How come I never encountered the kindheartedprincess? You were the haughty, high-handed queen withme right from the start.The first words Leti spoke to Duke were, I appoint you as myknight. Gratefully accept the first seat in my Knights of the RoundOkobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 31 -and bow down to me. It was Duke's first time to encounter suchhauteur. He had not even encountered that much from thearrogant Friedhelm.I already meant for you to be part of my inner circle from thebeginning, so there was no need for pretense, Leti asserted.Duke was about to answer something in return when Leticontinued on and asked him an unexpected question.I want to confirm something. Who is stronger, you orAstrid?Our results will be even for a match at least for now.Duke indirectly indicated that Astrid would be stronger than himin the future.I see, Leti said, and looked at Duke directly, her eyespiercing and sharp.To judge your own abilities objectively is one of your goodpoints. The two of you are evenly matched in a battle betweenknightsLeti's hair swayed and danced in the wind. She quietly askedDuke, How about in a real battle for life?Duke felt the weight of Leti's question.Do you remember me saying that any master who wished totake in Astrid would need much confidence and preparedness to- 32 -appoint him as a knight? I am considering taking him in. And thatis because you are here now.Leti openly showed Duke her trust. And Duke, in turn,understood the meaning behind his master's words she believedDuke would be able to protect her from Astrid, and that when theneed arose, Duke would be able to kill him without any hesitation.The wind grew stronger, blowing Leti's golden locks further,covering Duke's sight. The wind passed and Leti's shiny hairceased its dance, but Duke still hadn't answered.I shall give you time. Let me hear your answer then.Leti had asked Duke if he was prepared. He thought he wasthe moment he accepted the First Seat in the Knights of theRound, butI'd hesitate, for sure, but Ican kill him. But do I really have thestrength to do so?' Duke shook his head, correcting his thoughts.No, I should not even hesitate or falter, for I am the Knight of the FirstSeat of her Knights of the Round.'Leti did not say anything more. She turned around andcontinued walking towards the castle. Duke silently followedbehind.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 33 -Later that night after Leti asked her knight's resolve, she foundherself in the Knight King's Space and the only other guest wasthe Lion King, King Alexander.Hey, when are you in?Leti answered she had just taken in her first knight. Alexanderhummed silently and stood up by the window.Today's goodbye for me. You do know what I mean, don'tyou?Leti understood the Lion King's complicated yet simple wordsand asked to confirm, Is today the eve ofAlexander nodded. Tomorrow was the day he would be killedby his own knight, prime minister, and best friend who would belater on known as the Revolution King.No! Don't go!But that can't be. I will wake up and face tomorrow. I havelong accepted this fate.Alexander did not live in Leti's time. If not for the KnightKing's Space where the consciousness of the reincarnations ofKing Christian, the Knight King, gathered and the concept of timedid not exist, they would have not known each other. But hearingAlexander would die the next day was not something easy for Letito swallow.- 34 -Then promise me.What?That you will live. You will live and become a pirate whowill conquer the Southern Seas and be the king of a country there.That theory existed in my time so promise me you will do just as Isaid!Alexander laughed heartily and commented that it was aninteresting theory.If I do get past this ordeal and live, I will do as you say. I'll bea pirate, take over a country across the Southern Seas, and be theirking.Alexander reached out his little finger to Leti, and she wrappedher own to his, making a pinky swear just like how childrensealed their promises.Seeing you makes me think maybe I should have had children.We may not be directly connected by blood, but havingdescendants ain't bad at all.Alexander reprimanded Leti a lot of times, but despite hisharsh words, they were still overflowing with warmth and kindness,for he considered Leti as his great-great-great-granddaughter. Letiwas happy and a bit sad to be parting with Alexander, and shewanted to convey this to him.IOkobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 35 -But her consciousness was suddenly drawn back to reality.Princess, we are deeply sorry to disturb you, but Sir DukeisSuddenly waking up to her knight's call caused Leti to be in afoul mood. She was in a middle of an important conversation withAlexander, but then she was able to gradually turn her temperaround upon hearing the gist of the situation.I know it was King Alexander's last momentsbut I have my ownreality to prioritize!'She told her maid to ask Duke to wait as she changed herclothes and let him in once she was ready.Sorry for disturbing you this late.Quit the niceties. Our priority right now is to search for thechildren. Where exactly is the place you need permission to enter?The North Cemetery. We gathered all the available knights ofthe Order to search around the vicinity. They were playing in thatarea this afternoon, so we might be able to find clues there if theywere really kidnapped.- 36 -Duke had disturbed Leti this late in the night to ask forpermission to search in the North Cemetery to find any cluesregarding the lost children. Technically, it was the King'spermission they needed, but it was already late and they were notsure if it was acceptable for them to disturb the King. So theythought that maybe Leti, the heir to throne, could give them thepermission instead, so he asked her maid to wake her up, allprepared to receive her anger.You may go and enter the cemetery and just report to melater.If we're going to simply remind children to stay away, wewouldn't have bothered asking for permission. But if we're goingto do a search, our actions might disturb the place and we needpermission for that.I see. I understand. I also have the biggest responsibility forthis incident because of the warning I gave them which sparkedtheir curiosity.Responsibility?Leti nodded but did not explain any further.Let us hurry. Prepare me a horse, not a carriage. There is alsono need for a lady's saddle.Thought you'd say that. It's all prepared.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 37 -Duke already knew Leti would join the search when he saw hermaid prepare an overcoat and walking boots for her before heeven went inside her room. At first, he thought he should stopLeti from coming, but decided otherwise, since he was certain shewould find a way to go there. So it was better to let her go underhis watch than to let her go on her own.Oh? You are not going to stop me?If you want me to, I will. Your Highness, please stay here becauseit's dangerous outside, recited Duke monotonously.Only the King, my father, can order me. We are going.Duke smiled wryly, thinking how Leti-like her answer was, andthrew her the coat. Leti caught it easily and followed behindDuke's brisk pace without lagging behind with her long, elegantstrides. They hurried outside, walking together, side by side.Have I ever told you I can ride a horse alone?During this time, ladies in their dresses were not supposed toride horses astride nor alone. They usually rode horses sidesaddledwith gentlemen leading the horse. A lady of noble birthwho could ride horses was considered strange for trying toaccomplish an unnecessary skill for a lady. Leti simply learned howto ride one so she would not lose against her older brothers andknew it would be embarrassing for the whole kingdom if theirruler could not even ride a horse alone.- 38 -You're just a princess on the outside, right? I mean inside,you are exactly like Prince Friedhelm during our Academy days.Your incognito walks and the inconveniences you cause me. Theyare identical.You know your master well.If there's anything different, you're a good actress playing theprincess you are truly not, making you the more troublesome one.You really do know me well, Leti said again, her voice lacedwith amusement, no trace of her being offended.Princess!? Where are you going at this hour?To the North Cemetery. AlsoLeti gave orders and instructions to her servants who cameafter her, and she told her guards that they may come if theywanted to. After she had said everything she needed to, shehastened outside.Leti and Duke, accompanied with three of her guards, headedtoward the North Cemetery. When they reached their destination,everyone in the party except for Leti was creeped out by their firstexperience of a cemetery at night.Senpai! By the West Forest huh? Your Highness!?Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 39 -The only knight from the Order awaiting them was Astrid,who could not hide his surprise at seeing Leti outside in the middleof the night.Her Highness will help with the search More importantly,why are you here, Astrid? Aren't you off-duty tonight? Where'sGrantz?Duke's partner for the search was his other colleague, Grantz,but he couldn't be seen anywhere. Duke took a step forward,shielding Leti with his back.Grantz-senpai went with the others heading towards the WestForest. They have gathered information that someone saw thechildren go that way earlier today. So he asked me to stay hereinstead and relay the message to you. Will you also head to theforest?Let me thinkAccording to the report, the children went to the West Forest,but Duke did not know how reliable the source of informationwas. While he was weighing his options, whether he should go tothe forest or stay in the cemetery, Leti came to a decision andstarted moving on her own.Duke, Astrid, could you try to move that stone away? I wouldlike to check all possibilities I can think of before I go home.Stone?- 40 -Leti was pointing towards total darkness, and they could notsee anything. They only knew that the door to the Royal BurialChamber was somewhere around that direction. Leti held out thelamp and started walking there without even minding the dark. Asthe lamp lit up the area, everyone saw the stone she was referringto. It was round, and moving it would need some force.Even children can move this stone if they do it together.Have you ever tried it? asked Duke.Yes. I am that Prince Friedhelm's younger sister, after all.Astrid, the youngest in the group, volunteered to try and movethe stone, which was still damp and wet due to the rain last night.He placed both of his hands on it and pushed with all of his might.The stone rolled off easily, revealing a hole behind it.What the? Duke exclaimed.Everyone, except for Leti was surprised to find a hole bigenough for children to pass through.Just as I thought. This hole is connected to the BurialChamber. I think that this was a hole naturally created due toweathering by the wind and rain. As far as I know, only the royalchildren know about its existence. The other children might haveheard it from someone or found it on their own.Leti brought the lamp closer to the hole and examined it.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 41 -A corner of the hole collapsed. I guess the stone rolled backon its own, covering the hole again and maybe trapping thechildren inside.Just as Leti said that, there was a trail on the ground ofsomething sliding in.There are also small steps here, and these are yet to dry.Quick, we should confirm if my theory is true.Can you even see it? Duke asked curiously.Yes, I have confidence in my eyes. Or rather, confidence in thedark. Leti could see things clearly even in the night, thanks to oneof the Swords of Promise, the Sword of Black Darkness.We cannot go inside through this hole. We are going throughthe front.The front? asked Astrid.Through the front door. The key has arrived anyway.And as if on cue, a white bearded old chamberlain on a horseapproached them.The instructions Leti gave to her servants before she left thecastle was for them to fetch the key to the Royal Burial Chamberthat was managed in the castle. With her complete preparedness,Duke saw Leti's other brother, Guido, in her.Sorry for calling you this late.- 42 -Do not be Your Highness. I'm willing to stretch out these oldmuscles of mine for children the same age as my grandchildren.This is also the other item you have requested.Leti checked the small pouch the chamberlain delivered.Thank you. You have been very helpful. I shall return the keyso you may go back to the castle and rest.No, no, no, no. Taking care of the key is my job. I will waithere for your return.The old chamberlain opened the intricate lock and pulled offthe chains wrapped around the antique door handle. Astrid andLeti's guards pulled the doors open, revealing the stairs goingdown to the Royal Burial Chamber where the past kings ofSommevesle were laid to rest. Astrid took a look into the darknesswhere the stairs lead and found his knees shaking at the eeriness ofthe sight. No one would want to stay inside any longer thannecessary, for the winds sounded like howls of voices in pain.I shall take the lead so we will not get lost. A small searchparty would be better. Duke, Astrid, come with me. The othersshould wait here in case the children find their way out on theirown.Leti's guards did not really want to leave her alone, butthought it would be fine since her knight, Duke, would be with her.Leti nodded as they told her to take care. The party proceededdown the stairs, Leti leading the way with a lamp in her hands.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 43 -Watch your steps. The floor is slippery due to last night'srain, warned Leti. She was followed by Duke and Astrid.No natural light could reach the underground chamber. Thelamp's flicker was only enough to lighten their steps. It was so darkthat they could no longer see the end of their hands if theystretched it out.Your Highness, you are the most knowledgeable about thisplace, so please continue on taking the lead. Astrid, take the rearand be alert in case anything happens.Roger! said Astrid.Duke strengthened his guard due to the current situation. Intruth, he wanted to take the lead with Leti in between him andAstrid to secure her safety. But with his suspicions, he could notafford having Astrid near Leti.Her Highness has already noticed the danger around Astrid. I'm sureshe's on her guard as well.'Duke could only believe in whatever it was Leti possessed. Hewas prepared, on his guard with his hand on his sword, ready todraw it out anytime. In contrast to the tensed knight was hisrelaxed master, her voice normal and calm.This underground chamber is vast and complicated. I onlyremember the way inside here because I have been coming here- 44 -ever since I was a child, but anyone who would enter here for thefirst time would definitely get lost.Knight King Christian designed this place to be complicatedand confusing to prevent the place of rest of the kings from beingviolated in any way. The path towards the chambers was neverstraight. There would be numerous turns to make, and drawing amental map would be difficult. Even Leti did not have a clear mapinside her head. It was more of a knowing because of the numberof times she had been in the place.But in the end, this is just a grave. Getting there would nottake much time once you know the way.Ahhh But this place creepy, isn't it? Astrid let out in aweak voice. The place was a grave, after all, and something mightcome out at any moment. Duke was also feeling uneasy beinginside the deep, deep darkness, and thought he should have at leastbrought holy water with him.Uhm have have you ever encountered anyone not of theliving in here, Your Highness?Not of the living? Ghosts? I have not seen one ever, though Ireally wanted to meet one. I have a lot of questions to ask theRevolution King like why he killed his master.Astrid shrieked and swallowed his breath.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 45 -Se-se-senpai! What should we do if we meet one? Wouldn't itbe treason if we raised our swords against the kings of the past?Worry first if a sword will work against them. We should'vebrought a priest with us. Your Highness, do you have any amuletsor holy water we could use?Do not talk to me at the moment. I am currently regrettingbringing the two of you here. I should have just searched for thechildren alone. Leti couldn't help but be a bit disappointed at thestupid things the two fully grown knights were saying.If I were you, I would be more scared of the living. Which doyou think is more frightening? A bloody assassin targeting your life,or a ghost of the past simply floating around? The living is a wholelot scarier.Oh. If you put it that way Duke said, agreeing with heropinion just as Astrid butted in.I don't think the bloody assassin can defeat me, so the ghostis still scarier.Duke decided to scold Astrid later and tell him that he shouldagree with the lady for those types of situation even if he had to lie,but Leti, on the other hand, was not even bothered by Astrid'swords.Silence followed their exchange. Only the sound of theirfootsteps echoed in the darkness, and the lamp elongated their- 46 -shadows into creepy shapes. The two knights couldn't help buttruly respect their Princess Leticia, who was fearlessly leading theway. After walking some distance, the group heard the sound of ahuman voice. Astrid shrieked and started to panic even before hecould comprehend the situation.A-a-a-a-a voice! There's someone here!!!Astrid turned blue and Duke was shaking, already thinking ofwhether or not there really was a ghost. Leti, on the other hand,gave the two shivering knights a cold stare. The voice they heardwas unlike the howls of the wind earlier upon entering thechamber. It was distinctly a human voice.Are you two forgetting the reason why we came in here?Eh? Why? Uhm To save the children answered Astrid.Ah!Duke and Astrid looked at each other, the cause remembered,and started to work. Astrid ran first towards the direction of thevoice, followed by Leti and Duke. Leti pointed the lamp towardstheir direction and told them help had come. Then a small shadowemerged from the dark and ran towards the search party. The childgrabbed Leti's gown, crying and shaking. Leti knelt down andgently hushed the child to calm down.Are you alone?Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 47 -The child sobbingly answered yeah to Leti's question. Dukethen urged everyone to hurry outside when Leti told him to waitand passed the lamp to him.Leti took out the small pouch the old chamberlain delivered toher. The pouch contained a water bottle and some biscuits Letiasked to be prepared for the children.Have some water to calm you down.Leti gave the child the water bottle, and he gulped everythingdown. Leti followed up a biscuit to his mouth before he couldeven ask for it. Leti stood up again and took the lamp from Duke.You're surprisingly kind to childrenAnd to women too. Even I share the chivalric spirit ofknights.The party started to walk again towards the exit. Leti, with thelamp in hand, once again took the lead, followed by Duke with thechild in held in hand, and then Astrid. On their way back, Letiasked the child how he ended up inside, and the story he toldconfirmed their theory. The child was able to move the stone andthen he found the hole and went through it. However, the stoneslipped back on its own, trapping him inside, so he searched for adifferent way out and ended up getting lost in the complicatedlabyrinth. They continued to walk on towards the exit, and whenthey saw the door, everyone felt relieved at they could finally getout of the creepy chamber.- 48 -Duke, I will light up the steps, so carry the child and go up tothe door. The steps are wet and too steep for a child, ordered Leti.Duke did as his master said and went up the stairsm carryingthe child. Astrid was looking at them from behind, keeping guardat the back when his gaze focused on Leti's defenseless back andthe voice once again spoke to him.Her back is wide open! Go and kill her! NOW!Astrid felt something crawl inside his head. He unconsciouslycovered his mouth and gritted his teeth to stop any sound fromcoming out. He also did not realize that he took out the knife henormally hid under his sleeves. Inside his head, a gruesome sceneplayed. He sliced Leti's white neck with the knife, her bloodgushing out from the wound he had just delivered. The blood dyedher elegant dress into a beautiful shade of scarlet. After seeing herwrithe in pain, he took out his sword and pierced it into Leti'sstomach, keeping her down on the floor, agonizing in pain as heleft the sword inside her. Astrid's head throbbed in pain as hefought against that scene in his mind, and kept on telling himselfthat he did not want to do such a horrible thing to Leti.Then the voice spoke again to him, Hurry! Fulfill your desire!Your desire to kill the Knight King!Astrid shook his head to drive the voice away.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 49 -I would never do that. She is the next queen, the master Duke-senpaiswore his loyalty to. She is a very kind person and I would never want to killher.'Leti, wholly ignorant about the turmoil happening insideAstrid's head, was telling Duke that she was coming up next whenthey heard something crack. The next moment, Leti found herselfthrown out of balance, and Duke instinctively reached out hishand towards Leti. Astrid moved before he could even say lookout.Your Highness! Astrid! Duke shouted as Leti and Astridfloated through space and hit the ground. They were both shockedwith the sensation of falling down, like their stomachs had flipped.Pain followed upon hitting the ground, with debris falling afterthem.Drops of water falling down on Leti's head woke her up. Smallrocks rolled down her dress as she stood up.OuchFortunately, Leti had the Sword of Iron Steel the sword ofprotection against physical attacks so she did not have anywounds or broken bones.Now I see why I cannot give this sword away, Letiwhispered as she dusted off her coat.- 50 -The floor collapsed and it will be impossible for us to climbback up.This accident was already bound to happen based on how thefloor cracked. Weathering due to natural forces had already takenits toll on the old structure. It had not been a problem before,since no one normally came in the area, but due to tonight'sincident, the floor suddenly had to support the weight of threefully grown adults. Gladly, there was no need to worry much sinceDuke was outside and he saw exactly what happened. He wasprobably already organizing a rescue party for them.Astrid, are you alive?Aw-aw-aw-awYour Highness!?Leti heard Astrid's answer somewhere near her. He quicklystood up when he heard Leti's call and looked around, trying toremember what happened to them. He then realized everythingwhen he saw the hole above them. The voice vanished probablybecause of the shock he received due to the fall.I will not do such a thing. As long as I keep my head clear, I will not falland give in to the assassin in me.' Astrid reiterated again in his mind hisresistance against what the voice was telling him. He dustedhimself off and straightened.Astrid, you do have a knife with you, do you not? Could youlend it to me for a while?Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 51 -Eh?'I broke my nail and I would like to fix it before it gets anyworse. I only have a spoon with me.A confused Astrid handed to Leti his knife, wondering howshe knew about it. Leti carefully took the knife and slowly trimmedher ring finger.Rest assured, I will not tell anyone about it.Uhmmm Astrid took a step back, not knowing what to donow that he had been found out.Your abilities were not due to a talent for swords. What youhave is an ability for killing. My eyes are very discerning.Eh ah ah I-I see. Astrid was relieved to know thatwhat Leti referred to was his past and not the murderous thoughtshe was having about her recently. But he soon realized he had todeny it.No, Your Highness, I am not. Really, I am not.If you insist, then you are not. Though I have a question foryou, out of curiosity. Why did you want to be a knight? I amcertain you could have taken over your family trade.Leti obviously did not believe Astrid's denial and continued on.You are supposed to be a commoner of Sommevesle, are younot? But your obviously learned manner of speaking is giving you- 52 -away. You should try and adapt more of the downtown accents.Better be more careful in the future.Leti casually threw back the knife to Astrid, and she clearly sawwith her eyes how he caught it easily despite the darkness.I also think you are a bit too flashy for someone in anundercover mission.No I am not. I just simply wanted to be a knight.And that is the mysterious part for me. Why would someonelike you, born and bred to be a part of that trade, want to be aknight?Leti continued on with her interrogation, completely ignoringAstrid's denial. Astrid saw how much Leti knew. He decided togive up the pretense and honestly answer her questions.The most important point for an assassin was for no oneto suspect that you are one. So in order to do that, we undergotraining and education to be able to disguise ourselves. It wasduring one of those classes that I came across a picture bookabout the story of a gallant knight. Ever since then, I dreamt ofliving in such a world where power is used to protect and not tokill.Leti knew that the knight world was not that clean and ideal.And she was sure Astrid knew about it as well, but despite that, hestill looked up to that ideal knight.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 53 -Your Highness, have you ever longed for a fairytale's worldbecause it was something completely different from what youknow? I sure did. I longed about it because I knew it wasimpossible I truly wanted to be the Astrid I wished I could be,so I left my home and family.Astrid tried before to tell the other assassins about his dreamof becoming a knight. However, they laughed at him andmockingly told him to give it a try. Hearing that particular sarcasticremark made Astrid realize that it was exactly what he should do,to give it a try, so left his organization as the first step in fulfillinghis dream.Leti acknowledged Astrid's resolution to make his dream cometrue. I understand that feeling.But I am always worried. Worried whether I am smilingcorrectly or talking properly. I underwent training on how to smile,but I was not really sure whether my smile was how it should looklike, Astrid said with his usual refreshing smile on his face.Seeing Astrid's expression, Leti realized that Astrid only hadone smile. It was likely because he did not know that there wereother kinds of smiles, like a smile hiding sadness, a smile with atinge of hurt, or a smile that had accepted everything that fatemight throw at them.Everything about me, my smile, my words, my personality.All of these were created for people to like me I was not surewhether someone like me had the right to live in this world.- 54 -The Knight Academy's course is for two years, correct? Thatmeans you are only on your second year of quitting being anassassin. So what are complaining of, youngster?Leti, only a year older than Astrid, called him a youngster. IfDuke was there, he would have probably blurted out, Aren't youas well?I have been called the perfect princess, though that title hasrecently been degraded to Leftover Princess. Anyway, that title ofbeing a perfect princess was not given to me when I was born. Itwas something I earned for trying and being one for the pastseventeen years. My smiles and my words are all created to be likedby everyone.Is that so?Yes. Tell me Astrid, do you like Duke?Yes! Duke-senpai is strong and everyone relies on him. He'samazing!Have you ever felt happy when you are with him?Yes. Just recently, he praised me for good work done andAstrid continued on telling stories of what he did with Dukeand the other knights. He probably did not notice, but hisexpression was different than his usual smile. He looked kind ofembarrassed, but still happy, an expression befitting his age.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 55 -Let me ask you one last thing. Do you know anything aboutthe Ghost Energy?Ghost Energy? I'm sorry, I know nothing of it.Do not mind it. I am sorry asking such a strange question.He does not seem to be lying. Besides, if he really was the host, I amcertain he would not have let this perfect chance go to waste. Maybe it is safe tosay that he is not the host.'Her suspicions against Astrid were not yet completely cleared,but there was also the possibility that he was a just a formerassassin. The conversation Leti had with Astrid made her think itmight be safe for now to trust him and watch him grow. He wasdoing his best to be his ideal self, and he was currently on his wayin making the necessary connections needed to achieve his goal inthe Royal Chivalric Order.Remember that feeling you have now and never forget that.Try imitating me and what I have done these past seventeen years.Some are still for show, but some had already found their way inme making them a part of who I truly am, Leti advised.Seventeen years Astrid looked at Leti with respect, andthat respect was already turning into adoration.Looks like our rescue has come.Small stones started to fall from above and they could hearnoisy activity going on outside.- 56 -Your Highness! Astrid! shouted Duke.We are fine! No need to worry! Leti answered back.The hustle coming from above suggested there were morepeople present. Duke might have returned to the castle first toorganize a rescue party for them. A rope ladder came down next,and Leti climbed up first.So Her Highness is a senpai doing it for seventeen years,huhAstrid thought maybe he should just try and do what Letiadvised him to just do what he could and be patient. There wasno need to rush. Sure, he might still get caught up in the darknessinside him, but someday, just like Her Highness, doing it forseventeen years, and just like his knight-senpai whom he admired,he would reach his goal and be the person he wanted to be.Do you want power? A voice asked.Power?Yes, power. Power to be the person you aspire to be.To be the person I aspire to bea knight like senpaiAstrid's senpai was a Knight of the Sixth Rank in the RoyalChivalric OrderDuke Barchet. He was desired to become theknight of a wonderful master, Princess Leticia, and Duke himselfOkobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 57 -wished to be Leti's knight. Duke was exactly like the knight in thepicture book he read when he was a child.Yeah I wanna be like him I want to have that power.Then allow me to grant you that power. The contract hasbeen sealed.No matter how much urging the voice did to make Astrid killLeti, it did not work. But when he was asked whether he wantedpower to become his ideal knight, he showed a chink in his armor he showed the desire to have power. Honest and straight peoplelike him were weak against intricate deceptions, and the voice didnot let this opportunity pass. It had finally succeeded.Astrid's body started shaking, shuddering. Something wasslowly crawling inside him, taking control over his body. His nailsclawed on the wall, screeching as it moved, but the sound wasnothing compared to the storm raging inside him.I shall become one with your body and will grant you thepower you wished for in exchange for your life!Astrid opened his eyes, confused, not only what washappening to him, but also about the unknown memories thatwere filling his head. These memories belonged to the GhostEnergy, the true identity of the voice inside him.- 58 -Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 59 -No! I did not wish for this power. I don't need your power! Ionly wanted to be a... true knight with my own strengthAstrid's consciousness cut off, and he was forced into a heavyslumber, like he was slowly sinking down to the bottom of amurky swamp. The stiletto turned paper knife that Astrid did noteven know he was carrying slowly entered into his body and set hisinsides burning.Astrid, you may come up next! shouted Leti in her beautifulvoice, echoing inside the pit where Astrid was left alone. Hesilently climbed up the ladder, and Duke welcomed him, worriedlyasking whether or not he was okay.Yes. I am fine.The lamp's light set Astrid's body aglow, and that sight wasreflected in Duke's eyes. However, a different person was reflectedin Astrid's piercing emerald eyes.Oi, Astrid!A steaming hot shower will be refreshing, won't it, senpai?Astrid said in his normal cheerful voice, but Duke was not at allconvinced and knew he should not let his guard down againstAstrid.Astrid, stay here. I'm certain the children will no longer darecome back, but still stay for a while, just in case something comes- 60 -up. I will send additional members once I get back to camp,ordered Duke.Duke was aware that Astrid was off-duty, but he did not wantAstrid anywhere near Leti, so he gave that unreasonable order.Astrid nodded in acknowledgment and sent them off, watchingthem as they headed back to the Castle, leaving him all alone.I I have finally taken over this body! This is trulywonderful! The best body compared to any other bodies I havetaken in the past! Burning his life force is such a waste!There was no one left to witness Astrid laughing like a lunaticin the middle of the cemetery.Your Highness, did anything happen down there withAstrid? Duke asked as soon as Leti got off the horse in the RoyalStable.A conversation. Besides, I do not think Astrid is someonewho would do this and that to a lady.Not that. I know you know what I mean. Astrid is planningto kill you, finished Duke in his mind and conveyed it to his masterwith his eyes. He knew Leti's life was in danger, but he did nothave any proof, so the most he could do was to warn her andremind her to be careful.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 61 -Anyway, I'll escort you until your room. And if anythinghappens again, call me.Leti's villa was filled with maids and servants. If anythinghappened, there would be an immediate witness. They were onguard all throughout their walk back to the villa, but in the end itwas not at all needed, and they reached Leti's room.I'm sorry for disturbing you today. Leave the rest to me. I'llreport to you tomorrow, or rather later. Tomorrow is alreadycoming.Hearing Duke say tomorrow is already coming made Letiremember a conversation she was having with a certain kingbefore all of this commotion happened.I'll wake up and face tomorrow. Then I'll be killed.Tomorrow is already coming,' Leti mused. Her time and the LionKing's time were different. For Leti, it was supposed to be a thingof the past, a part of history, but it felt to her like it was only goingto happen when the morrow came.Duke, stand right there, ordered Leti and then she blew offthe candle's fire.Oi! Duke was about to turn around and ask her what shewas doing when Leti scolded him to stand still.Tomorrow is coming.- 62 -Yeah, it is.Have you ever, in your life, wished for it not to come?Maybe.Then Duke felt something land on his back with a soft thud.Judging from the height and feeling, it was probably Leti's head.You will never betray me, won't you?The Revolution King was King Alexander's cousin, best friendand trusted knight. He was the only person who lived after goingagainst the Lion King's opinion. That showed how much he wastrusted, and yet he still betrayed his own master and killed him.You know what, I can't do it even if you ask me to,replied Duke.Leti softly whispered, I see.There was no better answer than the one Duke gave her. Letithought King Alexander might have had these kind of momentswith his knight, and he would never know why he lost it; Leti, too,had no means of knowing.Thank you. Good night, Leti said and her knight took hisleave.Leti would probably no longer drift to the Knight King'sSpace tonight. She would simply have a normal dream and hopethat the Lion King would fulfill his promise.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 63 -The child did not have any wounds and is completely fine. Hewas already scolded by his parents, so the Order no longer addedto it. As for the West ForestThe next day, Duke came back to Leti, reporting whathappened afterwards. He was relieved to see she was already backto the princess he knew she was and not the young lady whoshowed weakness last night.Lastly, for the Royal Burial Chamber, we have talked with theChamberlain regarding the hole and the collapsed stairs. TheOrder shall take shifts in guarding the place until everything hasbeen repaired. That's all for the report.Thank you for your work. Take this with you.Leti took some papers on the table and gave it to Duke.What's this?A list of candidates for my Knights of the Round. They arepersons worthy to be taken note of. They range from beingcommoners in the Order to high ranked stupid and brainlessnobles.What is worthy in taking note of someone who's stupid andbrainless?- 64 -I did say high ranked. They are more useful than low rankedfools.Oh. I see.Duke looked at the paper and scanned the list.I already have the background check of the top tencandidates. The reports are attached there. They will be yourfuture subordinates, so you'd better take a look at those.I understand.Duke finished looking at the list and was about to read thebackground check when the first name he saw was very familiar,and he unconsciously addressed Leti with a simple, Oi.I remember telling you that the only person allowed toaddress me that way is my husband. Do you have any questionsabout the list?Astrid's name is in here.Astrid Gale is one of the best candidates skill-wise. The rest isup to you.Leti first thought that having Astrid as a knight wastroublesome, but her opinion was starting to change. Astrid'sdesire to be a knight was strong. Maybe she could look over hisdark past and see where his future would go. If left free, Astridwould probably end up in either Seventh Heaven or Valkyrie. ForOkobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 65 -Leti, it would be better if he would choose Seventh Heaven,because Friedhelm could accept him for who he was, including hispast.That is all for now. And one last thing. Do not forget theevening ball hosted by Lauenstein ten days from now. You will becoming as my knight, so remember to come in your formaluniform.Roger that Though I feel that it'd be more of a marriagemeeting under the pretense of being escorted by PrinceFriedhelm.I agree. He has been preparing for this and has been annoyingme ever since. We shall take our leave as soon as I can think of agood excuse, so make sure to do whatever it is you need to do andstrike conversation with any lady you fancy early in the night. Youare currently not in a relationship with anyone, are you not? Isuggest you find your partner now, for we shall be very busy in thenear future.Duke wanted to answer back with, Are you my mother? butrestrained himself and simply said that he did not have one fornow and took his leave to go back to the camp.Good morning senpai! Last night was terrible, right?cheerfully greeted Astrid when he saw Duke approaching theCamp.- 66 -Duke, fully alert to Astrid's presence, greeted him back andtold him to do his best for the day. As he passed by Astrid, hisjunior slipped something in his hand. He gave Astrid a questioninglook, but Astrid simply looked back, as if he did not do anything.After walking a few steps, Duke looked around to check ifthere was anyone nearby and straightened the small piece of paperAstrid gave him.A message? Please don't throw this away.' What does thatmean?Duke checked the paper if there was anything else on it but hefound nothing. Astrid acted like he didn't know anything about it,so Duke could only guess at the meaning behind the paper.The next day, the same thing happened in the morning, andthen again at night. Now that he had received three pieces of paper,he finally understood what they were for. Each piece was part of aletter.Please don't throw this away.I have a favor to ask.Please protect Her Highness. I willDuke could not comprehend why Astrid was doing this. Hecould have just directly relayed his message or wrote a normalOkobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 67 -letter instead of piecing it out. And every time Astrid gave Dukethe letter, he always played innocent about it. Duke was completelylost at where, exactly, this was heading until he received thefourth piece of paper.Please don't throw this away. I have a favor to ask. Pleaseprotect Her Highness. I will Duke recited from memory, as hehad read the messages a thousand times trying to decipher it. Andthe purpose of the letter was unveiled with the fourth paper.tell you how you can kill me.Duke was a noble, but he had always worn the knight's formaluniform whenever he attended balls and gatherings as a knight.The formal wear of a Knight of the Royal Chivalric Orderconsisted of their black uniform, white gloves embroidered withthe Order's emblem, and a cloak showing the knight's rank, whichfor Duke was of the Sixth Rank.Leti said before that Duke was a little different from her tastes,but the way his handsome face complimented his dignified look inhis formal wear would make her admit that he could make ladiesgather around him. However, his eyes were a bit no, they wererather sharp and intimidating, and ladies with faint hearts woulddare not to go near him.Oh, Duke! Dressed up, aren't we?- 68 -Work. It's work. I'll be attending a ball as Her Highness'sguard for the ball at Marquis Lauenstein's mansion.He was leaving the camp's quarters when he passed by Astrid.Astrid was surprised to see his senior in his formal wear.Senpai! You really look like a gentleman! Are you going to aball with Princess Leticia? Astrid asked Duke with his usual smile,but it did not reach his eyes his eyes that looked like that of apredator waiting for the perfect chance to catch his prey.Yeah, I am. Could you relay a message for me? Tell him torelax and don't worry.To whom shall ITo whom it may be indeed. See you later, Astrid, Duke said,with Astrid sending him off with a freezing glare.Leti was never one to be swayed by other people's moods andusually ignored them. But since the person sitting across her in thecarriage was her knight, she felt she should at least inquire abouthim.Is there anything wrong?Nothing, was her knight's reply, despite the fact it waswritten all over Duke's face that he was in a foul mood. LetiOkobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 69 -decided to let the matter go and not press him about it, at leastsaving her and him from a debate from happening.The two of them kept their silence until they reachedLauenstein Mansion. Duke finally broke the silence as he assistedLeti in going down the carriage.Stay with Prince Friedhelm as much as possible.A true blue member of Prince Friedhelm's faction, aren't we?Did he tell you anything?There was no need for Leti to stick with Friedhelm, for it washe who would be the one coming to her and introducing her tocountless gentlemen he thought were worthy to be her husband,pestering her for opinions regarding them.At first, Leti thought of going home as soon as she greeted allthe necessary people, but as she looked at the gloomy night skyreflecting her mood, she thought she might have to stay longerthan necessary.Welcome, Princess Leticia. I am honored you have acceptedmy invitation. Now, I'm sure my wife here would be more thangrateful to make her special berry pie for you if you would comeand visit us more often, just like how you usually came to play herewhen you were a child, greeted the current Marquis Lauenstein.After greeting him, Leti proceeded on to greet his wife, then their- 70 -son, and then the other members of the host family and thenand then and then finally done just right in time before Leti'sthroat completely dried up. Now that Leti was taking a break fromgreeting people, Duke, who was watching Leti's interaction withthe guests from afar, approached her.Your Highness, I would like to leave my post for a moment.An acquaintance is in attendance andYou may go and do as you please. I give you my permission.Duke, though a knight for this night's party, was still an heir ofa baron, and Leti was sure he had his own share of greetings to do.Thank you. Please stay by Prince Friedhelm's side during myabsence.He will. I need not come to him; he shall be the one to cometo me no matter how much I avoid him.True enough, Duke wryly agreed and addressed Leti onceagain before he leave.Your Highness, I shall give you my answer here. I will nothesitate to clear any danger lurking around my master even ifthe said danger is my adorable junior.Duke?A Knight's vow to thee With that, he left.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 71 -Leti had asked Duke before if he was truly prepared to be herknight, and he gave her the best answer, but she did not feel joy.What she felt was worry and concern that something was wrongand that she had to stop Duke from going wherever he washeaded to.Your Highness, how do you do? I hope you are enjoying thenight. Your headdress suits you perfectly, complimented a younglady.Ah thank you. The appearance of another conversationpartner prevented Leti from calling out to Duke. She searched forhim with her eyes and saw him tip his head to her before hevanished into the crowd. shall catch him later and ask for an explanation.'But Duke never came back after that.Leti chatted idly with the other guests, elegantly holding agoblet in her hand and casually looking around, calculating the bestescape route. She had already spent enough time not be rudewanted to search for Duke already.Behind that door is a rose garden full of untamed thorny rosebushes. It's gonna be pai--nful.Would you please stop reading other people's minds, PrinceFriedhelm?- 72 -Leti had distanced herself from Friedhelm all night, but he hadfinally caught her. Leti put her goblet down on a tray held by aservant and accepted that her fate was in Friedhelm's hands.Hey, have you seen Astrid? I wanted to introduce him toSeventh Heaven tonight.No, I have not.I guess my invitation was too weak. I should have given him aproper one.Leti took a side step to the left, but just as expected of herbrother, he already knew what she was up to and casually grabbedher sleeve, unnoticed by anyone, and dragged her back to the party.How bout that gentleman wearing the blue coat? The one toyour right.He seems picky, and that is a too-good reminder of PrinceGuido, so no.Aren't you picky too?Do not group me with that sweets-hating-man.Leti's words made Friedhelm remember that Guido's villa hadbanned all types of sweets inside, and he shivered at the coldthought. He shrugged off that horrible idea and continued onmarketing his husband candidates to Leti.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 73 -Then how about that man with the golden cuffs? The onewith red lining on his coat. He's the oldest son of Earl Eckerd.A capable person but do you expect me to marry a persontwo decades older than me? I might mistakenly call him father.Your complaints are endless. Well, tell me, who'd be goodenough for you?Leti replied with her usual answer, the looks of Lion KingAlexander, the abilities of Administrative King Karlheinz and thepersonality of One-armed King Oswald.In what novel did that King Oswald come from? I alreadytried searching, but I haven't come across him yet.You may come across him in the near future. He is a gloomyperson, but he is capable of finishing things once he decides to doit. Now, if you could please excuse me.Leti ended their conversation there and tried to escape, but healready knew her plan, so he grabbed her and brought her to thedance floor. He then signaled Seventh Heaven to bring ingentlemen that could be Leti's partner.It is an honor to dance with you, my future queen.Friedhelm bowed and took Leti's hand for a dance.Give me a clumsy lead and I shall step on your foot withoutany hesitation, threatened Leti.- 74 -The crowd cleared the floor for the waltz of the First Princeand his sister, the Crowned Princess. Leti showed them the perfectdance befitting her crown her feet were silent in their steps, andher form was graceful and elegant.You know what? We should show the world that we areactually in good terms sometimes.Really? I thought the world has already given up and dubbedour relationship cold.A steamy, hot relationship is impossible, but we can alwayshave a warm, fluffy one, right?They quietly conversed throughout the dance, and Leti, just asexpected of the perfect princess, had her princess smile on herface the whole time.Rain?A different sound mixed in with the music of the waltz. Thesound of water drops and the scent of rain filled the room, but themusicians played harder and louder, keeping the music alive anddrowning out the sound of the rain.The roses in the garden bent their stem, the flowers heavy withrain water, but not Duke. He kept standing on guard outside in thegarden, waiting for someone, even after it had started to rainOkobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 75 -heavily. He took off his wet gloves and threw them away, but theydid not land on the rose bushes where they should have.You finally came.The gloves did not fall on the bushes because they hit a man.Duke's hand was already resting on his sword, ready for whatevermight come.Senpai? Is there anything wrong? You'd catch a cold outhere. Prince Friedhelm invited me so I came to greet him andQuit your lies.Duke did not want to fool around, so he cut Astrid's obviouslie and asked him directly, Astrid, who am I?The Knight of the First Seat of the future queen's Knights ofthe Round or so I heard.Yes, I am Her Highness's knight and I am most sensitive tothe murderous intents directed at my master.The sun had already set and it was difficult to see in the dark.The strong rain made it harder to see, and Duke depended only tothe faint light coming from the mansion. But despite all of this,Astrid kept his smile.Who are you? You are not the Astrid who gave me that letter.So who are you?Letter?- 76 -A letter he probably wrote by taking back his body for a fewmoments to write and give it to me. A letter that said I shouldprotect my master from himself, from you.Hahaha! That explains those few moments I lostconsciousness! This boy was doing that! What a heroic deed! Butfutile! He was asking for the impossible! Hahaha!This did not provoke Duke and he simply kept his cool. Thereal Astrid, his junior and not the murderous Astrid in front ofhim, taught Duke a way to defeat him. Included in that action washis junior's wishfor him to be able to stop whatever the otherAstrid was planning to do.Don't worry, Astrid. I will make it happen. I will stop you.Duke took out his sword and charged at him.Let's do this Astrid! A fight till death!Astrid took out his sword as well and their swords clashed, andfought against each other, deciding who would live.The music of the waltz and the pouring sound of the rainisolated the ongoing battle in the rose garden. No one heard themetallic clangs of the clashing swords, nor did anyone see the twoknights fighting for their lives.You brute! groaned Astrid.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 77 -Astrid's body was still that of a growing adolescent. It lackedthe defined muscles that provided the older Duke his strength.Duke's thrusts and charges at him left his body shaking. But thatlack of strength was countered by his agility and speed he hadacquired through his training ever since he was a child.Frontal attacks won't work on him!' thought Duke. He may havemore strength, but Astrid, though barely, still had the upper handin the battle with his experience. If the battle was drawn out, Dukewould definitely lose once his stamina started waning. He had tofinish this battle before that, for if not, death was the only fateawaiting him. Gladly, Astrid himself told Duke about his weakness.My weak point is reacting too much.Try and throw a small stone at me at a close distanceand I will always try to evade it, making an opening formyself in the process.Duke decided that it was about time to do that. He feinted thathe could no longer hold off all of Astrid's attacks. Then heremoved his left hand from his sword and slid out the coin he hidin his sleeves. Once the coin was in position, he flipped it towardsAstrid.Getting hit by a coin was not painful, and there was noparticular need to avoid it, but Astrid's body moved instinctively,- 78 -creating an opening in his stance. Duke would not let this perfectopportunity get wasted.Duke's body moved all on instinct. His heart was yet to followon what he was about to do, but he knew he had to.Do it, Duke! Don't hesitate!' Duke told himself. He held hissword tightly with both hands, raised it up and slashed downAstrid's body from his shoulders across his torso. The move wasenough to make a mortal wound and cause Astrid to lose bloodor so it should have.What the?!Duke felt like he was slicing through a boulder. Astrid'suniform was clearly cut, and blood was dripping down, but thewound was supposed to be deeper and blood should be gushingout.I see it does not work as well as the Knight King's Sword ofIron Steel.Astrid touched the wood and looked at his fingers, dyed redwith blood. Duke's attack should have been fatal, but no, it wasnothing but a shallow cut.Have you finally realized your foolishness?And the rain grew even stronger.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 79 -Friedhelm let his guard down after seeing Leti dance with threegentlemen, and his sister saw this as the perfect opportunity to runaway and escape the ballroom. She went directly out to thecorridor and headed towards the door leading to the rose garden,walking as quietly as possible while gazing at the rain pouringoutside.Marriage I guess he does not understand that that is my lasttrump card.Ever since Leti accepted her fate of becoming the queen, shehad already given up on marrying for love and prepared herself tomarry for the country's sake. She could use it as a peace offeringshould there be a war, or for negotiations, or to calm down anyinternal conflicts.How can you expect me to waste that?' Leti thought indignantly.Your Highness, there are still a lot of dashing men hoping todance with you tonight.Making a lady dance the whole time is not a good thing. Yourthoughtfulness for ladies is not enough, Prince Friedhelm.I know you're not someone who'd get tired with that.Leti sighed. You came to search for me, did you not? I shallonly dance three more dances and that is the end of it. If not, Ishall go home right at this instant faking an illness.Three? Why not make it five?- 80 -I want to end this before my feet hurt. It takes much effort todance gracefully.Three more dances and that was it. Leti made Friedhelmaccept that condition, and they were about to go back inside whenthey heard noises in the Rose Garden. They rushed out to checkwhen something fell on a puddle, splashing water on Leti's dress.What the Duke!?Duke Barchet, Leti's knight, lay unconscious on the stonefloor. Friedhelm, utterly shocked at what he saw, willed himself tocheck on his friend and prevented his sister from coming near herknight. He knelt down to check on Duke, but even before hecould fully examine him, he saw something shiny and smelling ofsteel flowing out from Duke's body. He touched it and knew atonce that the liquid was not rain but Duke's blood.Go inside! Don't stray too far away from meFriedhelm fell on top of Duke's body and lay unconscious aswell.Onii-sama!Someone was definitely inside the mansion. Leti lookedaround for the attacker. Leti thought that as the crowned princess,she should run back inside and warn everyone to runaway. BothDuke and her brother were strong and wouldn't die that easily. SheOkobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 81 -convinced herself that it was the right thing to do and turnedaround to go inside when she felt a strong murderous aura upfront.We meet again, Knight King!In front of Leti stood a man drenched in rain with a bloodysword in hand. He was someone she knew well. He was Duke'sjunior, the genius rookie of the Royal Chivalric Order, and aformer assassin.Astrid?Surprised? Ahahaha! I have wanted to see that face on you fora lo---ng time. Astrid laughed like he was mad.But Leti did not even flinch. Rather, she kicked off her heeledshoes so she could move more freely on bare feet.Were you the one who attacked Duke and my brother?Duke? ...Ah, you mean that foolish man? He held out for awhile, but there was no way he could win against my body.Ghost Energy. Was Astrid your host?Yes! I had finally found you and should have killed you earlier,but this boy kept on resisting me. It took a lot of pain to take overthis body. But tis of no consequence, for the things I can do withthis capable body are limitless!- 82 -Leti clenched her teeth, regretting her oversight. True, Astriddid not know about the Ghost Energy, but that did equate tonot being the host.Your weapon is not a paper knife today, is it? Is the real onescared and hiding somewhere? Leti provoked the enemy as sheveiled the turmoil broiling inside her.You're wrong! This body is now mine. This boy is me. WhenI attacked you with the slave, we were still not yet completelyassimilated, but it is different now! I can fully utilize my powers!The Ghost Energy's powers and Astrid's abilities made aninvincible enemy. Leti knew that more than anyone, but she didnot cower and focused her energy to her right hand.Come! Knight Sword!Leti's palm grew hot and light gathered around it. The KnightSword was the same sword wielded by the Knight King, and itwould answer her call wherever and whenever she needed it. Shewas preparing to charge at Astrid, but Astrid had made the firstmove and was already charging towards her. The most Leti coulddo was to defend herself from his ceaseless attacks.Useless, useless, useless! I will cut your throat even beforeyou can call any of your Swords of Promise!Astrid's attacks were so relentless that Leti could not evenhave a moment to think. She tried distancing herself, but AstridOkobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 83 -would always be right at her neck without even ceasing his attacks.Astrid, now one with the Ghost Energy, was even smiling,probably because he found the situation interesting the KnightKing losing while he was not even giving everything he had.To not have a knight with a Sword of Promise workedagainst you, Knight King! How much have you fallen?!Leti's breath was going shallow and rapid due to the GhostEnergy's merciless attacks. She knew her feet were reaching theirlimit but she could not back down. She stood her ground, raisedher sword, and attacked.This era is different from the time of King Alexander andKing Karlheinz! There is no need for such power!The sword fight continued. Astrid's sword grazed Leti's leftshoulder, but she was not bothered.What this time needs is trust! Too much power would justcause war and chaos! Leti, standing firmly on the stone floor,again wielded the Knight Sword like it was nothing, for the swordwas a part of her it was simply like lifting her arms, effortless andlight.I had my share of doubts and insecurities. I could have easilysurpassed my brothers with this power. But I chose not to and thatis the only wise decision I have made my entire life!- 84 -Both of Leti's brothers were excellent in their own ways. It wasbecause of their greatness that the problem of who would succeedthe throne came up. Leti knew, and still thought that her brothers,Friedhelm and Guido, were worthy of the crown. If she revealedher identity as the Knight King's reincarnation, the people wouldhave easily accepted her as the heir. But she did not want to do it.It was wrong.I am fine being the Leftover Princess! I shall make it as thebest praise in the kingdom! And even the title Leftover Knight thatDuke was gaining lately!Astrid! If you are a bit of the knight you wish you were, fightagainst that power!Lack of exercise and practice had finally taken its toll on Leti.Her chest was painful and she was already having hard timebreathing. She regretted not training her body before. But shecould not give up. She acted like her body was already giving inand knelt down with one of her hands on the floor. Astrid chargedat her, and she threw mud at his eyes at the perfect timing. On thatmoment, Leti called one of the Swords of Promise.Lightning! Come forth!Lightning cut through the dark rain clouds and hit Astrid. Thedirect lightning strike and the deafening sound of thunderparalyzed Astrid's body, and he lay motionless on the floor. Letipointed the tip of her sword at Astrid's neck.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 85 -What? Are you going to kill this boy, Knight King?No. I cannot. He is an important junior to my knight. Dukewill be saddened if I do.Then let me go. I shall finish you in an instant.I cannot do that as well.There was no known way of saving a person taken over by theGhost Energy. Knight King Christian fought with these countlessof times during the war and he had chosen every time to end thehost's life. Lion King Alexander and Administrative KingKarlheinz followed suit. But LetiI shall make a miracle happen! I believe in Astrid's pure heartand his desire to be a knight that was so strong he willingly threwaway everything.Leti grabbed Astrid's shoulder with all her might and told theGhost Energy not to underestimate Astrid's admiration, his wishto be a knight, and the new bonds he had created with hiscolleagues in the Order. Astrid was brought up to be an assassin.But then he met a persona that was his complete opposite.In the name of the Knight King, I shall knight you.The Ghost Energy asked with his eyes what Leti was planningto do. And he needed not wait for the answer.- 86 -With a sword on thy right and a shield on thy left, dost thouswear loyalty to me till the day thou die?Leti hoped fervently for Astrid's answer. She held hisshoulders tighter, willing the true Astrid inside to answer her call.Ah Astrid's eyes faltered and Leti saw it as anotheropportunity. She repeated the Knight's Oath once again. Astrid'sbody started struggling, fighting himself.Wake up, Astrid Gale! Were you not going to be your idealknight!? Wake up!And as if in answer to Leti's reprimand, Astrid opened his lips,free from the Ghost Energy's control, and mouthed, I swear.The words Astrid silently uttered were not the formal answer tothe Oath, but it still meant his promise of loyalty, and that wasenough. Leti closed her eyes, removed her hands from hisshoulders and forcefully pressed her palm on his chest.Thou art my knight! I grant you the Sword of White Light toprevent the darkness from swallowing you.Leti's eccentric history teacher told her that the Swords ofPromise might have been a work of fiction for not even one swordremained, unlike that of the Knight Sword. But the truth aboutthem was only known by the reincarnation of the Knight King.The truth was that the Twelve Swords of Promise existed, but theycould never be found, for each of these swords lay inside the bodyof the Knight King.Okobore Hime to Entaku no Kishi- 87 -A sword bathed in light and shining brightly appeared out ofLeti's hand. Its glow was different than the cool, white light of theKnight Sword. The Sword of White Light was warm and gentle.Leti brought the sword to Astrid's chest and pushed it inside him.Stop that, Knight King!I am granting Astrid the Sword of White Light, and I amdriving you out from his body!What Leti was doing was a true Knighting Ceremony. It wasthe same one that King Christian, King Alexander and KingKarlheinz did. The Knight King would grant his knight one of theSwords of Promise, which would in turn give the knight thestrongest power imaginable. Leti did not plan on giving away anyof the promise swords, but this was a special case, and she had todo it to save Astrid.A normal knighting would have finished quickly and smoothly,but because the words for the Oath were simplified and Astrid'sconsciousness was still under the Ghost Energy's control, therewas a lot of struggle and resistance.Astrid Gale! You are not the Ghost Energy! You are AstridGale! called out Leti.Her call reached Astrid, and Leti felt him respond. The paperknife, the Ghost Energy's true form, slowly went out of Astrid'sbody and fell on the floor, and the Sword of White Light fully- 88 -entered inside Astrid. Leti's arms gave way and she fell over him.She was exhausted, but she had one more thing left to do.Just one last thingLeti reached out her hand and hovered it over the GhostEnergy. She called the Sword of Hell Fire to purify it, burning it toashes. Leti turned herself over and lay down on the stone floorfilled with rain. The rain cooled down Leti's body, hot with all theaction that transpired a few moments ago.I can no longer wear this dress and it was my favorite'She was down and did not even have the energy to lift even afinger.Your Highness? Astrid's voice broke Leti's reverie.Astrid seemed fine already, so she asked him for a favor.If you can move, go and fetch a doctor for Duke and Oniisama.As for me, let me rest for a while. I'm exhausted.The rain soon stopped. Once the rain clouds cleared up, thestars would definitely be mesmerizing.