Sousetsuka

 4





"First of all, did Norma-sama ask to have herself be seated next to the present master during Dopus-sama's funeral?"

Kanner replied this question.

"She said that she should sit somewhere the successor to Goncourt House would sit."

"Did she still ask for that seating position for the family council as well?"

"Yes."

"Allow me to proceed. Present master's plan was to expel people of Boldrin from the family council, I take it?"

Prado replied to this.

"Indeed."

"And you were planning to make Kusandria-sama speak of her third son succeeding with her own words, were you not?"

"Indeed."

"And were you also planning to make Tendoria-sama propose her eldest son as a candidate as well?"

"I intended to lead her to that effect indeed."

"But in reality, it was master himself who mentioned about Horkassa-sama being a successor. And you had concluded beforehand that Kusandria-sama had been fed a false information by someone else. Was that."

"That was done per Norma-sama's suggestion."

"Thank you. Next, what would happen if knight Kaldan-sama did not accuse Jinga-sama and withdrew obediently."

Prado looked at Kanner. Commanding him to explain.

Kanner spoke.

"Norma-sama said, 'He was not in a position that would afford him go back to Vantaroy empty handed, so he will definitely attempt something if you throw him out of the council.'"

"Yes."

"Norma-sama also said, 'But if it looks like he will obediently leave the room, stop him before he does and make my presence known.'"

"Yes. Thank you very much. I understand now. One more thing if you would. Master said that he would hand over knight Kaldan-sama to the House of Wazrof, was that part of the plan as well?"

"Norma-sama spoke this. 'People of Boldrin will surely target either me or Jinga. I will then disclose my background and bring up Wazrof House, use that as a threat. I'm sure they'd be shaken if you threaten to hand him over to Wazrof.'"

"Ah, I see. I understand now."

"What do you understand."

Prado asked in an amused tone.

"After comparing master's and Norma-sama's methods, I will now state the strong and weak points of each method as you have requested."

"Hou. Speak."

"For the countermeasure against Boldrin, master was planning to drive them away from the family council's room. Doing thus would stop Boldrin from interfering directly. But as they are staying at Goncourt mansion, you would not be able to silently pressure them out, which would have left an effect on the council in some way."

"Fumu."

"On the other hand, Norma-sama's method allowed her to expel the Boldrin out of the council before Goncourt members' eyes, exposing their powerlessness as such likely helps drawing the Boldrin away from the minds of Goncourt family members. However, it also posed the risk of giving Boldrin a chance to cause a disturbance to the family council if not done right."

"I see. And then?"

"Master's method would end with Boldrin going home unharmed. But Norma-sama's method put them through a slightly harsh lesson as their gift back home."

"Hahahaha. That is true."

"Next up, master's way makes a clear distinction between allies and enemies, to strike at those enemies. Contrary to this, Norma-sama's way makes both allies and enemies stand together on top of the boundary line."

"What? Make it clearer."

"First, master was planning to make Kusandria-sama and Tendoria-sama state their candidates of Goncourt heir themselves. On top of that, you intended to make Goncouort members who were in support of Kusandria-sama or Tendoria-sama show themselves up. You were planning to out those who have been taken by the House Boldrin or House of Haddis."

"Of course."

"After which you introduce Norma-sama, so those who have shown support to Kusandria-sama and Tendoria-sama cannot take back their words. You would sever your ties with Kusandria-sama and Tendoria-sama, and to rain down harsh punishments to their supporters."

"Umu. Exactly what I had in mind."

"Yet Norma-sama's way made it look like Kusandria-sama was a victim of deception by the hands of Boldrin's evil scheme."
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
"Fumuu."

"Both Kusandria-sama and Tendoria-sama remained related to Goncourt House. And yet, members of Goncourt, especially those with strong connections to Boldrin, were cornered into a situation where they had to air themselves out in the open."

"Hohou. Go on."

"Members of Boldrin House were present during the council. Those who were in it for profit or were blackmailed must voice their support for Horkassa-sama even if only for show. However, as Norma-sama had been named a successor, they could not go all in. And thus master did not denounce them."

"Umu."

"Those who had been influenced by Boldrin not too deeply chose to keep their silence."

"Kuku. They sure did."

"The ones who agreed to having Horkassa-sama as a successor then were practically admitting their relation to Boldrin, thus they would have to mind their conduct and speech for a while now."

"Too soft."

"Yes. That might be so. At any rate, members of Boldrin made a mockery of themselves in the end. That sowed a seed in the head of everyone present, that they don't have to fear Boldrin."

"That is indeed. You will end up like that if you get on board with them. That is for sure."

"Looking at the bigger picture, master's method is harsh, drawing a clear and hard line between allies and enemies, a truly natural way to do things. In contrast, Norma-sama's method affords ending things without severing Kusandria-sama's and Tendoria-sama's ties, nor any of Goncourt family members."

"Is that not the same as carrying enemies under your arms."

"She's keeping allies that may turn hostile from crossing over the line. In a way, Norma-sama's method avoids creating new enemies."

"Didn't it drag those Boldrin out in the sun."

"I have concluded that you never planned to hand him over to Wazrof House in the first place."

"Hou. What makes you think that."

"Because it does not match the ways Norma-sama have been doing things thus far. And that, 'I'm sure they'd be shaken if you threaten to hand him over to Wazrof.', earlier convinced me. In my humble opinion, I believe you're planning to rake him over the coals before forgiving him, thus putting him in debt."

"Fufu. Good observation."

"Norma-sama's way is highly adaptable and not prone to failures, however, it also requires precise judgments at a moment's notice as a drawback."

"Which one you think is better."

"Ale has its own virtue, as does liquor. My humble self believes there is no perfect hierarchy to that. However."

"However, what?"

"Norma-sama's instructions were completely thorough, this humble self believes."

"Hmph."

Prado looked like he had something in mind, then he lightly crooked his right finger which he used to tap on his desk before turning at Kanner.

"Kanner."

"Sir."

"I am thinking of leaving Gaipus's education to Findin, what do you think."

"I think that is a good idea."

"Good. Findin."

"Sir."

"You're in charge of Gaipus's education."

"Sir."

"I'll tell Utena and Gaipus tomorrow."

"Sir."

"Now then, it's time to go to bed. Oh right, Kanner. Norma said, 'Please be especially wary of Boldrin people tonight.', have you made the arrangement?"

"Sir. I have left two soldiers each in the stairways of the guest building. I also have instructed Captain Hector to keep a careful watch."

"I see. This was one long day."

"Please have a good night rest."

"Yeah."

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 3





"Good grief. She's merciless to an old man, this granddaughter of mine. What's the harm in greeting the family elders."

"It was master who promised her that she wouldn't have to do anything."

"Even so, gaining their trust further should prove beneficial once she has succeeded this house."

"That might be why."

"Hm?"

"Norma-sama did that in order to show that she has no intention to manage the house even after becoming the heiress."

"Hmph. Same with the matter on butler assistant then."

"Yes. Master could not give an immediate reply when Norma-sama asked, 'Kanner would manage the business if Prado-sama died or became incapacitated, but what became of it if Kanner also died or fell ill?'"

"Because I never thought of such a possibility."

"And Norma-sama saw through that fact. Hence why she harshly talked back, 'Then that promise of me not needing to do anything is nothing more than a cheap verbal promise you don't plan to keep.'"

"She really doesn't need to do anything."

"That still won't do. Thus why Norma-sama put up a condition. To select someone that would succeed me posthaste. And to let that person attend the family council this time."

"That was one absurd demand."

"We could only say that it's absurd because I myself as well as master did not think of the matter serious enough."

"Hmph. Did you hear that, Findin."

"Yes."

The butler assistant standing in a corner of the room replied.

"Then cease acting like an onlooker in that corner and step forward. You must not miss a word between Kanner and me. Ask away if you have a question."

"Yes."

Findin took a step forward.

"Findin. That was why you were appointed as a butler assistant. I am aware that there are some who voiced it should have been someone older. But if we chose an older one, they won't be able to help assist Norma-sama as a head of family, and later Gaipus-sama once he takes up the position."

"Yes."

"From now on, follow me everywhere I go, watch what I do, listen to the words I speak, and make conjectures on my lines of thought. So you can run this position yourself one day."

"Yes."
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
Kanner looked back at Prado and began speaking.

"But I was truly astonished by Norma-sama's acumen. To think knight Kaldan-sama would really act just as she predicted."

"Norma only said that what could occur, it was not 100% sure."

"Yes. But how she could foresee that possibility and instructed me to let our Boldrin guests into the room was truly a show of keen insight."

"Norma letting Boldrin knight in was majorly to expose the traitors among us. She was simply betting on them raising a stint over Jinga-dono."

"And she told master to give the order if it came to that."

"Pushing the bothersome role to me."

"Oh? It appears that you are quite bothered by that."

"I know you were holding back your laughter."

"That is not true at all."

"No need to hide it. You almost burst out laughing when I and Jinga-dono were speaking grandiosely."

"That was too much even for me. I had to give it all to keep myself from laughing."

"Speaking of, is the matter of him being the Chief Knight of Wazrof the truth?"

"I am ill-informed on that particular matter. However, to House of Boldrin, House of Wazrof is their former master. It will not surprise me if they have information on it. Besides, there was no need for lies at that point."

"Indeed. Which means, House of Wazrof may hold Norma dearer than I originally considered."

"It is as you said, master."

"But Norma is far too soft. Findin."

"Yes."

"Initially I told Norma to sit on a lower seat during the funeral."

"Yes."

"I also told her to stay in another room and only come in once she's been called during the council."

"Yes."

"By doing thus, Kusandria would blabber on, those who have been cajoled by Boldrin would go on sympathizing with her, after which I shalt make it clear that Norma would take the position instead, and hand down proper punishment to those traitors. That was my plan."

"Yes."

"Yet, this is what Norma said to me. 'You're pretty set on dividing up allies and enemies, aren't you'."

"Yes."

"Of course. That is how I do things. Benefits to allies, harms to enemies, and punishments to traitors, those are absolute. That is how you protect your house."

"Yes. No."

"Hm? Anyway, Kusandria pushing her third son from Boldrin and her sympathizers coming out of the woodwork, they would only dare doing such because Gaipus is still too young and no one is named a successor until he's grown up. Having Norma known from the start meant losing the chance to expose those traitors."

"Yes. No."

"Make up your mind, yes or no."

"The <Yes> is to indicate me understanding what master is trying to say. As for the difference between master's and Norma-sama's policies, there is no guarantee that master's is always the correct one. Hence, the <No>."

"Hou. Are you saying you understand what I and Norma have in mind?"

"I'd like to believe that I have a good understanding on master's as far as the topic I am allowed to listen to. As for what Norma-sama thinks, I could only hazard a guess since I've only heard fragments of it."

"You sure talk like you're arguing."

"He's aspiring to be a scholar."

"What disciple."

"It is history."

"Hou. I too love history. Very well then, tell me advantages and disadvantages between my and Norma's ways, nevermind if it's only up to what you know."

"Understood. However, I still lack some information. Would you allow me to inquire some points, master?"

"I do not mind. Ask away."

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 2





"Salutations to all of you members of Goncourt Family. I am Norma Goncourt. My mother, Korona was Prado-sama's daughter. My father was the sixth son of the previous generation Marquis of Mashajain. My father was not permitted to call himself a Wazrof as my father's mother was but a local noble."

Calling your grandmother a local noble may sound self-depcrating, but in reality it's not really so. After all, Even this House of Goncourt looks no more than a local noble from the perspective of a big name noble like Wazrof. In other word, Norma is saying that her grandmother from father's side was from a lineage whose standing equals that of Goncourt at least.

"However, my father was beyond a shadow of doubt, a member of Wazrof Family. I was born here in Vouka town, but my father, mother and myself were called back to Wazrof Family while I was of tender age to live in Wazrof mansion. I spent my life at Mashajain until I was 17."

Norma's eyes caught Don Cospe showing a hint of surprise in his eyes. Looks like he really didn't have this intel.

"Eventually, my grandfather, Marquis of Mashajain left this world, followed by my mother Korona at Wazrof Mansion. My father and I loathed to keep living at Wazrof, and we went back to the house he bought here at Vouka."

The way she phrased it would likely invite misunderstanding, that it was hard for them to live in a house with her grandfather and mother's memory so they came back to Vouka. In reality, both Norma and her father happily left the mansion.

"The previous head of Mashajain had appointed a knight to escort us. Prado-sama."

"What would it be, Norma-dono."

"Would you allow my knight to prove his identity with his words?"

"Umu. That would be best. Knight Kaldan Hoist-dono."

"Ha."

"I shall let the knight you indicted to prove his credentials himself. Listen well."

"Please wait. I'm"

"Norma-dono."

Prado stopped Kaldan who was trying to say something and nodded at Norma. Norma looked back and signaled at Jinga with her eyes.

Jinga took a heavy step forward.

"On my name Jinga Tauer, I have dedicated my sword to House of Wazrof. Under the preceding marquis-sama's order, I am to ensure the safety of Sasfrey-sama and Norma-sama as my mission. You the knight over there. Your act of defiling my honor and throwing insults on this exalted crest of Wazrof is inexcusable."

Nice voice there, thought Norma as he listened to Jinga. Other members of family watched the smile on Norma's face as their bodies froze up.

Jinga held up his left fist on a chest level and recited a spell.

"<Deploy>!"

A <Shield of Wolkan> manifested right away.

Knight Kaldan was trembling with his entire body yet he couldn't let out a voice.

"My lord. By your will, allow me to prove my worth by my blade."

(I did tell him to do this and all.)

(But Jinga.)

(This is way too much.)

"Jinga, put away your shield. Mind the place."

"Ma'am. <Reduction>."

Jinga put away his shield, took a step back and stood aloft like nothing had happened.

"J-Jinga Tauer!? That can't be. That's the name of the predecessor's Chief Knight. No, no it can't be. But, that <Shield of Wolkan>, that's, that's"

Knight Kaldan spoke up once again without permission. He wasn't speaking to anyone in particular, just blurting out loud, but it was still a discourteous act all the same.

The already few looks of awe some here gave knight Kaldan had all vanished, most people here are now looking at him with anger and disgust.

"Knight Kaldan-dono."
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
Prado spoke in a voice cold as steel.

"You have shamelessly trod in the family council of Goncourt uninvited, and threw order into chaos here, your actions cannot be forgiven regardless if you are a knight of Boldrin. I am obliged to send a letter demanding explanations to the head of Boldrin."

"Please wait! This is a misunderstanding. I'm only thinking for your own good"

"Our house should hand down punishment on you, but that's not meant to be."

Knight Kaldan showed a look of relief here.

(This knight is way too expressive.)

(Compared to him, that attendant is pretty good.)

(I can't read what he's thinking at all.)

"Only House of Wazrof is entitled to give judgment for the insults you gave them. As such, I shall have you delivered to Wazrof."

Every single person in the room had a look of shock on their face. That's just how much impact Prado's words carried.

"Men, restrain knight Kaldan-dono! Take his weapon and <Box> away and put him in an isolated room. Do not let him out of the room no matter the circumstances. No one but our family's servants are allowed to enter the room."

Four of the six soldiers moved to the order. Knight Kaldan kept on spouting excuses, but Prado paid him no heed.

He was eventually brought away, giving silence back in the room.

Two soldiers standing by outside came in the room to replace the four that got out.

Everyone present still hasn't come out of their shock at Prado's coldness. Who would imagine he would hand over a knight of Boldrin to Wazrof. If he can do that, then Prado must have some sort of connections with House of Wazrof. He did let his daughter marry off to a son of a big noble, and even the former Chief Knight of Wazrof stood before them right now, so that possibility seems very high.

Of course Prado doesn't actually intend to hand over knight Kaldan to House of Wazrof. It was but a bluff to blow away the shadows of Boldrin House in this family council.

Knight Kaldan calling Jinga a Chief Knight was outside of Norma's calculation. As far as Norma is aware of, there's no term like Chief Knight at House of Wazrof. But from an outsider's perspective, Jinga's standing was exactly that indeed.

And the title of Chief Knight of Wazrof brought about a dramatic effects on the members of Goncourt. After all, the Chief Knight of the House of Wazrof is likely of a higher standing than even Goncourt's family head. There is no way they could muster up the courage to stand up against such an individual.

"Kanner."

"Sir."

Kanner understood what his master wanted just by having his name called, he took Kusandria, Horkassa, Tendoria and the attendant of Boldrin House out of the room. Kusandria could no longer show any resistance.

"Now then. Ladies and gentlemen. As I have stated earlier, I propose to name Norma-dono as the successor to Goncourt House and for her to swear to surrender the right to Gaipus once he has come of age. Those who are against, raise your hand."

None did.

"Those who are in favor of, raise your hand."

Everyone besides Prado and Norma raised their hand. How even Gaipus himself energetically raised his hand gathered attentions. Utena and Jona also raised their hands with a smile on their faces. This gave an impression to everyone present here on the stance main family of Goncourt has taken on the matter.

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 1





"Now then, I believe you all know that I have had two wives. My legal wife, Narae was the daughter of Ramo Company's chief, wed to me as an adopted daughter of Sawajie. My and Narae's eldest son passed in his infancy, and our second son whom was named a successor also passed fiver years ago. Thus I nominated the eldest son of my second son, Zepus as the heir, but he also lost his life last year, after which I was planning to announce Zepus's little brother as the next in line. However, Dopus too passed three days ago."

Prado paused for a bit here before unveiling a shocking truth.

"By way of a poisonous needle."

A huge commotion erupted. Meanwhile Norma calmly observed. Who are truly surprised, and who are not.

"Kusandria. I have a question for you."

"Y-yes."

"You arrived at Vouka ten days ago, bringing along your third son born to Boldrin House."

"Y-yes."

"And you were insistent on pushing that third son of yours be the successor to Goncourt House. And that despite knowing Dopus, the then heir, still alive and well. Dopus was a healthy man who never even had a cold, nor had he a history of illness. Thus I ask you, Kusandria."

"Y-yes."

"Who told you that Dopus was on the verge of dying?"

"T-that's. But father, news of Dopus's illness even reached Vantaroy town."

"Who have gotten you into believing such an obvious lie?"
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
"T-that's."

Kusandria looked to her left. The attendant to the left behind her nudged at Kusandria's shoulder, stopping her.

Kusandria turned her line of sight at upper seats of the branch family.

As if urged by her gaze, an elderly man sitting on the second highest seat spoke out.

"My lord. Kusandria-sama has expressly come back home for the sake of Goncourt's enduring prosperity. And besides, now that Dopus-sama has passed away, we must pick a successor as soon as possible."

Norma has a paper detailing the seating positions of this council members laid on her desktop. The one who spoke just now is Sakurd Beym. Husband of Prado's little sister.

"Indeed. This period of booming prosperity for town of Vouka is precisely the time to deepen our relationship with Vantaroy. By tying a strong knot with House of Boldrin, Goncourt shall open a path to its biggest success yet."

This one was by Hama Gakusto. The present head of the branch family, grandson of Prado's little brother.

Afterward, a few more family members spoke in Kusandria's defense. What interesting was how there were also several individuals who remained silence despite getting urged by Kusandria's glances.

(Those who have been enticed by Boldrin House.)

(And those who are still undecided but leaning on yes.)

(They have no choice but to support Kusandria-sama here.)

(But even among those who have promised Kusandria-sama their cooperation.)

(Some of them seem to have inferred the questionable prospect and refrained from showing definite support.)

Norma calmly, or more like, amusingly listened to the relatives' opinions.

After they were done voicing their opinions to a point, Prado spoke once again.

"Back to the issue at hand. Dopus has lost his life. Going by order, the next in line should have been the eldest son of the late Zepus, Gaipus. However, Gaipus is five this year. Considering I am 71, there is a danger of me passing before Gaipus has come of age if I do nominate him."

"I do not believe present master-sama would get an invitation by the underworld god for a decade, nay, two decades still."

This transparently sucking up attitude was said by the highest seated person of the branch family, Don Cospes. The person who would have been named the guardian had Norma declined to be the successor.

Following Don, the majority of the family members also voiced their optimism on Prado's lifespan.

"Thus, I may name a guardian for Gaipus."

Prado paused here, drank water to quench his throat and resumed.

"I am thinking of naming an intermediate successor."

"Intermediate successor?"

"It cannot be."

"So the next head won't be Gaipus-dono?"

Prado raised his hand to calm down the rustle.

"Now then, my second wife Rokusuna, came from the noble House of Okarute from Bigo, however, House of Okarute has ceased to exist. I and Rokusuna had a daughter by name of Korona."

Prado turned his gaze at Norma sitting to his left.

Norma looked straight ahead at the table with a slightly loose gaze as she smiled softly.

"Korona was married to Sasfrey-sama of Wazrof, and birthed Norma-dono. The person sitting next to me is Norma-dono, that is to say my granddaughter. I would like to name this Norma-dono as the heiress, she would swear to surrender the position to Gaipus once he's come of age."

A commotion break out in the banquet hall.

Many words flew around, but the one compiled them all was the branch family head, Don Cospes.

"Pardon me, present head-sama. I Don Cospes is aware of the matter transpired in month nine last year related to apothecary Norma-dono, however, I have never heard of her being a member of Goncourt. Additionally, how someone from our Goncourt House was wed to a member of Marquis of Mashajain, Wazrof House is also news to me. What does this all mean."

He mixed in some lies there, thought Norma.

The effective leader of the branch family can't possibly have not gathered information on the main family's head's children and grandchildren. Naturally he must know that Norma is Korona's daughter, Prado's granddaughter.

He also must have gathered intel up to Sasfrey, an apothecary, a medical practitioner and a researcher, being the husband of Korona. He might even find out how he had some sort of connections to Wazrof. But that would be the end of the line for any clue. After all, House of Wazrof should have imposed a thorough information blockage on everything related to Norma's mother, Korona.

"You may listen to the explanation regarding that from Norma-dono herself. Norma-dono."

Prado looked to his left and signaled with his eyes. Norma looked back at Prado's eyes, nodded and stood up.

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17





"Who gave you the permission to speak, Kusandria."

His tone was chilling the air. The room was filled with tension, none moved a muscle.

"M-my apologies."

The atmosphere loosened up ever so slightly after Kusandria apologized.

"I permit Kusandria's and Tendoria's presence. But they may not speak. The next time these two speak without my permission, they must vacate their seats at once. So must they had they brought upon an unbecoming subject in this council."

"Sir."

Kanner bowed deeply.

"And who is the young man sitting next to Kusandria."

It's the third son of Kusandria, the individual Boldrin House is trying to push as Goncourt's successor. He'll be 20 this year. He's Prado's grandson and they've been introduced, so asking who he is here shows his coldness toward the man.

"Sir. He would be Kusandria-sama's third son, Horkassa-sama. According to Kusandria-sama, it is of importance for him to be in this council as it deeply concerns Kusandria-sama's suggestion, hence his participation is required."

"Then he shall be let in this room if Kusandria has been permitted to speak and there is a need for his presence. The man is to wait in another room until then."

Norma's sharp gaze caught an attendant behind Kusandria stopping her when she was about to speak.

"And who is the knight and attendant behind Kusandria."

Besides the participants, only the main family butler, butler assistant, present master's knight, and main family members' soldiers are allowed to be in this family council, even main members' attendants are only allowed in for urgent matters. Even now the only outsiders here are butler Kanner, butler assistant Findin, two knights and six soldiers serving the main family members. And yet Kusandria had an attendant and a knight behind her when she's not even a member of Goncourt House anymore, let alone main family members.

"They are to tend for and escort the young master of Boldrin House, Horkassa-sama, thus they have asked to be in the same room as him."

"Then they shall wait with Horkassa-dono."

A knight is a noble, and as he is a knight serving house of Boldrin, his standing is likely high. Of course he's still an outsider here, but Prado cannot be too heavy handed to the man.

"Please wait!"

The one shouting that was none other than Boldrin's knight.

Prado's eyes squinted as he glared at the knight.

"Knight-dono of Boldrin House. You have stepped into another family's council and spoken without permission. Do you realize how disrespectful you are acting."

"Please! I implore you a moment! A grave issue has arisen within your family. An enormous sham is present in this room! Harsh reprove shan't be the end of it had it left alone!"

Other family members were wide eyed in surprise at this remark.

Boldrin knight pointed straight at Jinga and spoke loudly.

"You there! You lowlife! How dare you don an armor engraved with the crest of the venerated House of Wazrof! Know that death is too good a punishment for your transgression!"

Everybody looked at the left portion of Jinga's chest armor.

A coat of arm modeled after a lion clad in thunderbolt.



<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >

18





The members of Goncourt house realized the gravity of the situation.

House of Wazrof is one of the only 13 marquis houses in this kingdom, and they're the second highest standing one after House of Rainzats. A noble house with financial power rivaling that of Marquis of Tsubolt and the two Baronies in the northern half of the kingdom.

Vantaroy is physically close to Mashajain, the road to the capital necessitates them to pass through Mashajain, of which a small kingdom once stood. Vantaroy nobles were the vassal of that kingdom, and the descendants of that kingdom's royalty being Mashajain.

Boldrin knight has accused the knight standing behind the seat of honor in this Goncourt Family Council is  posing as a knight of House of Wazrof. If he's really a fake, Goncourt will not come out of this easily.

However, Prado doesn't look the least bit perturbed.

"Fumu. Knight-dono of Boldrin House, what are you called."

"I am Kaldan Hoist."

"Very well, knight Kaldan-dono. The true identity of that knight over there shall be made clear in this family council. As such, you are permitted to attend this council for a short while."

Prado surveyed around, and looked at every single member of Goncourt family.

"This council is now in session. Today we shall discuss the nomination of Goncourt House's successor. Before we begin, I shall introduce the person sitting next to me."

Goncourt family members were already dubious of Norma when they saw her sitting in the heir seat during the funeral service, and they must have heard about her connection with Goncourt. However, it was nothing more than hearsay, unreliable second hand narration.

They sit ready to listen to Prado without missing a word.

The present master, Prado will now make Norma's identity clear to everyone.

[Episode 35 Successor to Goncourt House] End/Next [Episode 36 Bloodline of Sage King]

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 15





The following day, Norma moved to Goncourt mansion in haste. Can't exactly carry all her father's manuscripts, and it won't do to mess them up now. So she wrapped everything she's gonna need for the time being in a cloth and loaded them in the wagon. She also packed all highly effective medical herbs as well. She only brought a bare minimum of clothes. The clothes she's wearing from now on will be provided by Goncourt.

The following day, after putting together all the bare minimum necessities to live at the mansion, she went to greet the late Zepus's wife, Utena, and the late Dopus's wife, Jona.

Utena is 22. She was married off from Zafkremen House of Bigo. Utena was really surprised when Norma mentioned how her grandmother came from Okarute House of Bigo during her introduction. Utena's grandmother is also a member of Okarute House. Meaning, Norma and Utena's grandmothers were sisters. Utena expressed her delight by hugging Norma. Norma could sense fright in Utena's eyes. Can't blame her, she's been thrust in an uncertain situation after being left alone. When Norma left her room, she told her 'Do come again okay', with pleading eyes.

Norma got along with Utena's two kids as well. The eldest son Gaipus is five, the eldest daughter Elfus is two. As someone who has years of experience as a medic, Norma knows just the way to handle kids. She came with candy and toys prepared. She became the two's favorite right away.

Jona is 20, but she looks younger than her age. She's a very quiet woman. She keeps her two year old daughter, Yulila, in her arm all the time. Norma's calm demeanor and soft talking voice seemed to have soothed her, she gradually opened up to her as they chatted.

Jona is from one of the four noble houses at Vouka, Tsurusawa. When Norma indirectly asked her if she wanted to go back to her family, she entreated Norma to let her remain at Goncourt since she'd be shut in a room deep within her family mansion, and be treated like an outcast if she went back. Norma swore to do everything in her power to keep her wish.

They're ready for battle now.

The day after was Dopus's funeral. Held at the temple.

It was very obvious how the priests were all so eager to talk to Norma who was sitting on the second seat of the chief mourners, funny even.

The vice temple head offered tea time to Prado and Norma after the service, but Kanner declined her, saying they would be holding a family council to decide on the successor.

Then more than 20 wagons were headed to Goncourt Mansion.

The family council began.



<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >

16





Family members of Goncourt House sit around an oblong-shaped table in a spacious council room.

"Present master of the house, to presence."

With Kanner's announcement, the door in the back opened, Prado came out and behind him members of Goncourt main family followed, then they took their seats.

Prado and Norma sat in the center, with his grandson Gaipus and her mother next to him. While next to Norma, Dopus's wife, Jona sat.

And as a bodyguard knight took position behind Prado, and Jinga behind Norma, a rustle broke out among the family members.

Jinga is obviously a knight no matter how you look at it. And quite of a high standing at that. The person standing behind Prado is not formally a knight. He's only a soldier wearing first-class armor, the so-called a knight in name only.

However, today you could only see Jinga as a noble knight. His silver armor provided by Wazrof House has a dazzling blue crest embedded, his brilliant red mantle with golden stitching lets out a high class fragrance, his stance is gallant and imposing. His white mustache and carved wrinkles show his deep wisdom of age more than old age, his calm standing figure oozes out a hard to describe dignity.

As present master Prado gently raised his right hand, the rustle stopped.

"Before we begin the council, there are several matters that need confirmation. Kusandria and Tendoria who have been married off to other houses do not have right to participate in this family council. Why have you taken seats here."

Kanner who was standing near the exit bowed and replied to the present master.

"Kusandria-sama stated that she has a very important proposal that pertains to the topic for this family council, as such I have let her in for master to make the judgment. Tendoria-sama claimed that she wishes to listen to the council as the future of Goncourt house is intertwined deeply to her concern, thus I have let her attend after gaining her understanding that she will not have the right to vote or speak."

Kusandria suddenly spoke up.

"If I may father! As the daughter of present master, this lower seat is unfit for me, I should be on a chief seat for main family members!"

"Who allowed you to speak."

The low voice Prado used to interrupt his daughter was not loud at all, yet carried a tremendous pressure to it.

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Suddenly her hands and cheeks recalled Lecan's warmth on that day. The warmth Lecan gave that time in the townlord's mansion annex by telling her how her uncle, the previous generation Marquis of Mashajain truly felt.

At that time, Norma's heart crumbled down like it was melting, she wouldn't have keep it together without someone supporting her. And Lecan did. Norma found out about the gentleness depth in Lecan's heart from that warmth.

The words Lecan spoke that day shook Norma to her very core.

"Godfrey sent a letter to Jinga which had this written. 'I shall avenge my brother without fail, you keep protecting Norma'."

Godfrey was a machine for the marquis house. But the words he sent when your father died sounds like it comes from a genuinely passionate man to me."

"Godfrey avenged his little brother, took back the wand and sent it to Jinga."

"Your mother's wand was sent to you. It's loaded with the feelings Godfrey had for you."

"Have you ever thought of this. Prohibiting you take your assets was nothing more than a front. That must how he explained it to his relatives. But Godfrey wanted to let your father take everything he needed, no matter what it was."

"I believe he was. Both your father, and you."

"Godfrey sent his most trusted knight to you and your father. Then he ordered that knight to protect you when your father died. That was Godfrey's true intent."

Norma's had completely shut her heart toward Marquis of Mashajain. That's just how poorly they treated her. Or so she believed. However, that closed door was pried open by Lecan's words. Broke open.

The stagnant, unsightly and ugly feelings festering in Norma's heart was completely cleansed away back then.

Lecan had that power mysterious power.

Moreover, he would only show that gentleness to a very limited number of individuals. Knowing that she's one among those individuals makes her gleeful enough to physically blush.

Marrying Lecan had never even been a speck in her mind. Or more like the idea of marrying someone or anyone never even crossed her mind.

But a new path has opened now.
<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >
(Wonder how would he react.)

(If I asked him to marry me?)

Wonder how should she bring it up. First of all, she has to explain the circumstance around her and Goncourt. That she needs to marry someone to prevent unwelcome bugs. Her husband can't be someone that could be tempted by Goncourt's fortune. And his wife, Norma will have to surrender the right to succession to Gaipus someday.

I won't bind you down to the house. Right, she's got to remember mentioning that. He's free to leave anytime. And whenever he feels like it, he can go back to Vouka to rest. At this Goncourt Mansion.

But what about Eda. Lecan is clearly taken with Eda. Of course, he could just marry Eda. As he's a noble, he can have multiple wives. Lecan is likely going to come pick Eda eventually. Then they'll go on an adventure together. That's fine. Then Norma herself can be the harbor for the two to come home to sometimes. She will defend the place the two can go back to.

So please, be my husband. How will he reply back if she said that.

"Yea. Sure."

Feels like he'd just nonchalantly say that. Then she'd take him to the temple while his mind is set. No, she should have a priest ready beforehand. Then they can hold a wedding ceremony at the mansion right away.

The biggest issue would be Prado instead. His grandchild was killed by Lecan. It might be difficult for him to come to term emotionally.

However, on the other hand, this would mend Goncourt's relationship with Lecan and Eda. And having him as a groom would be preferable to Goncourt House as a whole, Prado's feeling notwithstanding.

"Norma-dono. What do you think?"

"Y-yes!"

"After neglecting you all this time and not even sending an aid, I am sure you find me bringing this up now loathsome. However, I cannot find any other mean but to beg you here. Please, would you please consider it."

Norma whose delusion was interrupted by Prado almost said yes on reflex, but she noticed there were things needed to be done first.

"I cannot give a reply on my own discretion. I'm aware that this is a matter of urgency, but could you send me back to my clinic with a wagon first. Once I've consulted with them, I'll get back here with my answer."

Norma went back to her clinic on a wagon. After explaining the circumstance to Jinga, his reply was brief.

"I shall do as Norma-sama's wish."

That's a promise to accompany Norma anywhere she goes. This brief exchange resolved Norma's mind.

Next, Norma spoke to Rakrus.

Rakrus congratulated Norma, but he seemed hesitant to go to Goncourt mansion along with her.

"I have completely taken fancy of this clinic. It's a nice place. I can calmly work at ease. Besides, you will need someone to tend the garden. My apprentice Yoran has been taught by Jinga-dono, he's now capable of so. Being a distance away might be good for us both as well."

In exchange, Rakrus asks Norma to send a wagon to fetch him every day, unless she's busy with something else.

"Every day?"

"It may change once my work has reached a certain point, but it must be carried out every day for starter."

Thus they reached an agreement, and Norma went back to Goncourt with her consent to be the heiress.

Afterward, they held a discussion to plan out how to proceed in the family council. Under Norma's suggestions, Prado made a major revision to his plan.

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