I, Reincarnate as the Leader of the Villainous Knight Order - Chapter 132: Justin's Life Plan

Chapter 132: Justin’s Life Plan

“The one who has deviated from reason… Why is Vandière called that? Do you have any idea?”

After the Saintess’ explanation, His Majesty asked me this. Of course, I couldn’t honestly say, “It’s because I remembered my past life.” This is the time to mention what the others had predicted in Salamona.

“This is just a theory, but… when we heard this oracle, Vice Commander Luminar said that perhaps I was originally fated to die in the Taleraan Margrave. In fact, I did suffer an attack that caused me to lose consciousness during a monster subjugation. If I had realized it any later, the Third Knights would likely have been wiped out by the Stampede.”

“I see. Indeed, stopping the Stampede right after it began was nothing short of a miracle. Normally, it wouldn’t have been surprising if the Taleraan Margrave had been devastated, just like during past Stampedes. The Third Knights who were there would have been as well.”

The ministers seemed unsettled, but my explanation appeared to have convinced them.

“However… you mentioned leaving the country after defeating the Evil God. Does that mean you intend to resign from your position as Commander?”

“That is…”

“You mustn’t!”

Just as I was about to answer, Ernest interjected before I could speak. Although he seemed busy exchanging glances with Lady Diane, it appeared he was paying attention to our conversation as well.

“What is it, Ernest?”

“I beg your pardon. It is no exaggeration to say that everyone in this kingdom knows Commander Vandière as the strongest knight of Rafios. His name is likely known in other countries as well. If Commander Vandière, who knows our kingdom’s inner workings and has no equal here, were to visit other countries, isn’t there a chance he might be recruited by them? Am I the only one who thinks it would be reckless to allow that? Especially since he’s contracted with dragons!”

“Hmm… that is a valid concern. However, if our nation’s Commander visits other countries to investigate the world’s anomalies, a justification will be necessary. Have you thought about that?”

“Yes. In that case, we could say that I was the one that’s traveling to broaden my horizons and was provided an escort for my journey!”

Ernest answered with unwavering conviction, leaving His Majesty and the ministers at a loss for words. It’s understandable—this is the same person who was plotting to condemn me not long ago, and now he’s suggesting I act as his escort on a journey. Lady Diane also had a complex expression on her face, but Ernest gave her a soft smile.

“By then, I’ll have married Diane, and we’ll combine it with our honeymoon.”

“Oh, Lord Ernest…!”

For a moment, I almost escaped into the thought that this world also had the concept of a honeymoon. But as much as I’d hate to ruin their excitement, you want me to escort a newlywed couple? And if I go, Jest and Jeanne will be with us, too? They’re already spreading their sweet atmosphere. And after marriage, it would definitely be bad for Jest’s upbringing.

“Your Majesty, in any case, nothing can be done until we succeed in defeating the Evil God. We should focus on that first.”

I must prevent myself from becoming their honeymoon escort before the Evil God is defeated. The oracle mentioned multiple countries, so we’ll likely be traveling to several. I can’t handle that with those two! Fortunately, His Majesty nodded in agreement after hearing my suggestion.

“Indeed. Nothing can be done until the Evil God is defeated. There will be no harm in delaying the decision about Vandière leaving the country until everything is settled.”

“As you wish.”

Alright, I managed to postpone the issue for now. With the current forces, I don’t think we’ll fail to defeat the Evil God, but there’s no guarantee of survival. Honestly, I don’t want to include Orel, who should have already died, in the subjugation.

From what I’ve experienced so far, there doesn’t seem to be any narrative force compelling events. So I don’t think it will cause him death. But since the Saintess will participate in the subjugation, Orel will definitely insist on going too. I should tell her not to say anything reckless, like planning a wedding after the subjugation is over.

By this kingdom’s standards, the Saintess is of prime marriageable age. But since she’s still young, there’s no need to rush. By the time they do get married, Orel should have risen to a title that can be inherited by her children, rather than just being a knight baroness. I considered these things as I left the audience chamber.

“Captain Vandière.”

As I was about to return to the barracks after leaving, the head of the temple called out to me while smiling brightly.

“Yes, what is it?”

“This is about what happens after the Evil God is defeated… The Saintess is set to marry Vice Commander Luminar and stay in this country, correct?”

“That’s right.”

“Oh, Temple Head! You’re getting ahead of yourself~!”

The Saintess seemed not just unbothered but rather delighted and shy.

“You know, I’ve read many stories since I was a child. And in most of them, the hero is often tied to the country through marriage… If there’s someone you have feelings for, I suggest you confess them now. Am I saying too much? Haha, well then, shall we return to the temple, Saintess?”

“Okay! Well then, Captain Justin, thank you for your hard work!”

I understood what the temple head was getting at. As I watched the two of them walk away with smiles, I found myself searching my memories. I wondered if there had ever been a noble lady I liked whilst I, Justin, wasted my youth trying to bring down Ernest.