The Great Sage Who Did not Remain in Legend - 20.3

Iris was delighted to hear that she could become able to use magic.

“So, there’s one problem.”

“A problem?”

“You said you’ll be an adult next year, but you’re only 12. What’s the meaning of such a silly lie?”

“Huh? I didn’t lie. I’ll really be 15 next year.”

Iris looked bewildered when accused of lying. People often get angry or behave suspiciously if they realize they’re lying. A skilled person could easily deceive, but Iris was straightforward and her emotions showed on her face, suggesting she didn’t realize she was lying.

Something seemed off.

“By the way, when were you born?”

“Late December.”

I see, she’s still 12 because her birthday hasn’t come yet. Even so, it would still be over two full years until she turns 15. I didn’t plan for her to stay here for such a long time, but now it seems we’ll be living together for over two years…

“Alright. Sorry for saying you lied…”

“No, it’s okay. Once the year turns, I’ll be 15, so I can quickly get my Hunter’s license.”

“But even after the year turns and the year ends, you’ll still be 14.”

“What are you talking about? Everyone ages by one year when the year turns. The same goes for the capital, right? On January 10th, there’s a coming-of-age ceremony, and that’s when I’ll be recognized as an adult.”

Is this counted in age…? I miscalculated assuming it was the usual full age. Maybe even during the time of the hero party…

“I see. It seems there was a slight misunderstanding because where I was born, you count one year older when your birthday comes.”

“Oh, I see. There’s such a place, huh?”

Iris replied casually.

“However, just because you become an adult after the year turns doesn’t mean you’ll immediately shine as a Hunter. You’ll need to train hard this winter and start full-scale activities in the spring.”

“Yes. Please take care of me.”

“Also, while we’re planning for you to become a Hunter, what about working at the court?”

“Even if it’s possible, it seems cramped… I think being a Hunter would be better.”

“If you excel at court work, you might be able to show up your father who abandoned you.”

“Huh?”

“Irisflone Voltea.”

“W-why do you know that?”

“I confirmed that I can see names, right? Well, even before seeing your name, I somehow understood your situation. Your father is a noble and your mother is a commoner, right?”

“Y-yes…”

“So, your mother passed away, and when you went to visit your father in the capital, he just gave you money and told you to leave. Am I wrong?”

“Y-yes, that’s right…”

“By the way, did your father come to see your mother when she was dying?”

“He didn’t come…”

“Forget about such a father. Or show him up by excelling at court. When he shamelessly comes and says something like ‘my daughter,’ ask him, ‘Who are you?’ and reject him.”

Iris, with tears in her eyes, smiled a little.

“Are you saying that if I excel, I should reject my father by saying, ‘Who are you?’ That might be satisfying…”

And tears spilled out.

“Choose what you like. If you choose court work, I’ll prepare myself too. But you’ll need to be quite prepared as well.”

“I understand my own determination, but what about yours, Mergin-san? What do you need to prepare for?”

“Do you have the resolve to kill someone?”

“Huh?”

Iris froze, shocked by Mergin’s unexpected question.