I've Inherited the Summoning Skill, So I'm Going to Try to Master It! - Episode 77: In Other Words, Just the Name Isn’t Enough

Episode 77: In Other Words, Just the Name Isn’t Enough 

There isn’t much time left before departure. Because of that, Brother Leonard must be extremely busy. For this reason, I decided not to ask Brother Leonard about the personalities of the key people. 

Brother Leonard looked somewhat relieved. He quickly finished the pudding served with tea and went back to his work. 

I paused my own work for a moment and checked the paper I had received earlier. 

Hmm, I see, I see. Brother Leonard belongs to the knight order. Since he is going, it seems there will be an inspection of the knight order’s training owned by Duke Flute. Although the details aren’t written, there might also be some guidance involved. 

Meanwhile, I’ll be touring Duke Flute’s residence and the territorial capital. The tour of the residence is fine, but is it really okay to visit the territorial capital? No, it would be rude to doubt Duke Flute like that. He probably wants to show that the territorial capital is perfectly safe. 

After that, I’ll leave the capital with Brother Leonard to visit the nearby towns and villages. This seems to be aimed at showcasing Duke Flute’s authority. Members of Duke Flute’s family will join us, and we’ll travel together. 

And of course, this includes a tour of the mines. 

“Hmmm, I’ll need to properly remember faces and names. It looks like there will also be a party inviting nearby nobles. I should probably brush up on my dancing, too.” 

I’m not good at swordsmanship, but I’ve put in some effort into dancing. After all, I don’t want to embarrass the girls I dance with. And I’d like to impress them too. 

Alright, I’ll ask Mother and Brother Gilliam for help. I’ll start by visiting Brother Gilliam. I’m curious about the magic tools as well. 

“I’m heading to Brother Gilliam’s place. If I can’t make it back, I’ll let you know.” 

“Understood.” 

“Have a safe trip.” 

With that, I headed to Brother Gilliam’s office. He usually stays in a place called the Research Wing. 

I heard that important national research is conducted there. I hadn’t been interested before, so I didn’t pay much attention. But maybe I can’t ignore it any longer. 

Rare materials and magic tools… I’m the only one who possesses or can create them. If anything, it’s strange that I haven’t been approached before now. Maybe Mother has been keeping them at bay. As expected of Mother. She’s strong. 

“So, this is the Research Wing.” 

“To be precise, Rufus-sama, this place is called the ‘Feather Palace’.” 

“Feather Palace? Does that mean they’re hoping the research here will someday take flight and benefit the country?” 

This building is part of the royal castle. It’s connected to the palace where I usually stay via a passageway. And it can only be accessed from the ground. 

The large wooden door was open. It revealed a decoration of two crossed feathers. Between the feathers was the royal family’s crest. 

“It certainly feels like an important national facility.” 

“Various research is conducted here, so the security is quite strict.” 

The entrance led to a small hall. And to proceed further, it seemed necessary to go through a reception area. As soon as we stepped in, guards approached us. 

“Welcome, Third Prince. What brings you to the Feather Palace today?” 

They spoke without lowering their guard. Their sharp eyes were fixed on us. Impressive, they’re well-trained. They’re cautious even with the Third Prince. Balt and Ray also seem more alert. They were ready to protect me. 

“I’ve come to see the First Prince. I need to learn about the key people of Duke Flute’s household.” 

“I’ll notify him right away. Please wait a moment.” 

The guards gave precise orders, moving with swift efficiency. Watching them, I couldn’t help but think about how lax the Summoning Guild is in comparison. Should I tighten the discipline a bit? But then again, there are only three of them. 

While I was lost in such thoughts, permission was granted. We were guided to the third floor, to Brother Gilliam’s office. Inside, he was carefully polishing the mug I had given him before. 

………What about his work? I’d like to believe it’s his break time.

“Welcome, Rufus. So, you want information about the Flute Ducal House? You’re really diligent, Rufus. I wish Leonard could learn a bit of that seriousness from you.” 

I couldn’t quite tell if he was joking or being serious. Is Brother Leonard really that laid-back? If that’s the case, there might be some issues with this inspection plan as well. I should carefully review it later. 

But I also need to restore Brother Leonard’s honor. 

“I received a paper from Brother Leonard with the names of the key people. But just knowing their names doesn’t give me a clear picture of who they are. Could I ask for your help, Brother Gilliam?” 

“Of course, I’ll help you. After all, it’s for my adorable little brother.” 

Brother Gilliam smiled. I subtly made sure to imply that Brother Leonard is actually doing his job properly. 

He didn’t mention anything about a reward, but that doesn’t mean I should take his help for granted. What should I do? Maybe I should secretly give him a magic tool as a gift? In this place, even Mother’s watchful eyes wouldn’t reach. Probably.