When I was working as a civil servant, I was found out to be a muscle-brained knight by the princess knight and got sent to the front lines - Episode 188

Episode 188

At last, Jez and his party arrived at the capital of the Tashman Kingdom, Nevorista.

For Jez and René, it was a return to the capital after being transported to another world, enduring various twists and turns there, and finally returning to this world, with a several-months’ journey via the northern core city of Foresval.

Even Jez, who is accustomed to frequent moves, felt a bit relieved to be back in the capital. He glanced at René, who was on the bridge, and she too seemed to be relieved. Although she tried to hide it, the experiences they had gone through were overwhelming. No one would complain if they let their guard down.

While the other world was a place Jez knew well, it was a completely new environment for René. Considering that she had not complained once during their journey, it was evident how mentally and physically tough she was. Was this due to her pride as a royal and a commander, or was it inherent? Regardless, it was clear that she was a respected royal and commander.

As Jez observed the landing operations of the airship Mandjet/Mesektet, the ship approached the capital. Bells rang within the city to announce the ship’s arrival. Everyone, including civilians and soldiers, was astonished by the sight of the imposing airship.

As the ship approached the capital, it displayed various flags: the Tashman Kingdom flag, the royal emblem flag indicating Princess René’s presence, the 7th Legion flag, the emblem flag of the Divina Church, the Fourth Saintess flag, and the 11th Legion flag.

Seeing these colorful flags, the citizens and children were excited and exuberant during the day. From a distance, Jez and the others followed the guidance of the 1st Legion to land the ship, who were already stationed outside the capital.

Once the ship had fully landed and the gangway was deployed, Jez and his party descended to the ground. They were greeted by Prince Leo and members of the 1st Legion, Cynthia Clark, the chief of staff of the 11th Legion, as well as bureaucrats from the Prime Minister’s office and curious Academy members.

Leo approached Jez, offering a firm handshake. 

“Jez Norman. Thank you for protecting my sister. Congratulations on your appointment as the commander of the 11th Legion. I trust you with the matter of the Divina Papal State.”

“Understood.”

Leo then hugged René, confirming her safety and expressing his joy. Erin, Lilly, and others were also engaged in conversation with Prince Leo.

As Jez looked around, wondering what to do next, a voice cut in.

“… Aren’t you going to say something to me?”

Cynthia Clark, standing with her hands on her hips and a scowl on her face, looked as if she was ready to scold him. Despite her smaller and more delicate appearance, her stance did not carry much intimidation. Jez thought, “I might have caused some trouble.”

“I brought souvenirs—wine from the north, both red and white.”

“Yay!! … But that’s not going to fool me! I’ll take the souvenirs, though!”

Cynthia’s playful interaction with Jez showed no signs of her knowing any different. Her behavior was entirely natural, as expected of Cynthia.

Jez and his party, having disembarked, enjoyed the long-awaited reunion for a while. However, King Ramses and Prime Minister William were waiting at the royal castle, so they were instructed to head there quickly.

Although both King Ramses and Prime Minister William were eager to see the flying ship up close, it was deemed inappropriate for them to personally welcome a mere legion commander. So they restrained themselves. If there had been a significant military achievement, the situation would have been different. But this time, there was not enough reason for the king to make an appearance. It was likely that Jez would later invite the king and the prime minister to see the ship.

・　・　・

The party quickly boarded the prepared carriage to head to the royal castle. René, Erin, and Lilly were expected. The 11th Legion, including Jez and almost all the senior officers, were also in attendance.

However, to be cautious, Ole Halvorsen stayed on the ship, ready for any emergencies.

Accompanying them were Divina Church representatives with guest officer status: Saintess Lucretia Alma, Archbishop Edelmar Solennis, and the Holy Knight Brigade Captain, Alexia Gray.

A meeting was set to exchange and organize information about the Divina Papal State and to align future policies.

The party that arrived at the royal castle was immediately shown into a large conference room. Under normal circumstances, they would have used the audience chamber to formally commend Jez and the others. But given the current near-war situation, there was no time for ceremonies, so this approach was taken.

Inside the conference room, Jez and his party found many bureaucrats and legionnaires moving about busily. Among those already present were Minister of Internal Affairs Eva Robbins and the Speaker of the Kingdom’s Parliament, Ivan Dragomir.

Had Jez not been present, it was likely that Ivan Dragomir, the former commander of the 7th Legion now in reserve, would have been sent in his place.

As the necessary personnel gathered, King Ramses and Prime Minister William Saylor entered the room almost simultaneously.

Everyone stood and saluted in unison. King Ramses responded by instructing everyone to be seated while taking his own seat.

“Now, everyone, thank you for gathering. And Jez Norman, first let me thank you for protecting René. Thank you. And I’m sorry to get right to it, but I need your assistance immediately.”

As King Ramses spoke, materials were distributed to the participants, and discussions began on the specifics of the upcoming strategy using a map of the continent.

Thus, the final adjustments for the expeditionary operation to the Divina Papal State were set to proceed.