Aiden had just learned that the bond form could change in the Weaver of Fate, but what shocked him even more was something else entirely. "Additional copyable skills will be unlocked!" This phrase was the one to pay attention to. Although he had glanced at Katya's skill list a few times before, seeing it again after hearing this was simply absurd. "...Well, really?" Aiden muttered to himself as he scrolled through it.
He had only looked to see what it meant when they said skills were being added. "...Every class has them?" Even within the game, the main characters all grow along different routes, and the paths they walk differ accordingly. Whether it was Noel or Katya, the mind-boggling power they displayed right now should, strictly speaking, be viewed as humans who are still at the starting point.
As the main scenario progresses, their respective "specialties" change depending on which field they choose. To take Noel as an example, it feels like there are classifications such as specializing in swordsmanship, physical enhancement, or learning additional magic to become a magic swordsman.
However, aren't the skills added to that list now encompassing all those specializations? 'Originally, once a specialization is set, you can't learn anything else...' Even Aiden's Weaver of Fate can only copy skills that the target 'possesses.' Now, it feels like the pool of skills that can be copied has expanded enormously just because the bond has changed.
It is as if... being able to copy these people's 'future' in its entirety— "Your Highness, I mean." "I said I'm not going back." "......." "More importantly, give up the position of adjutant." Before he could even continue such thoughts, a curt voice fell from right in front of him. As if the mind-boggling declaration that he would not return to the Holy Empire wasn't enough, the words Katya followed were a demand that would have made Noel clutch his own throat.
Upon realizing that the position of 'Aide-de-camp,' which she always took with her to public events, was vacant, Katya’s demands were truly persistent. As a result, a rather awkward standoff ensued.
Though it was hardly a standoff, as it was merely Noel desperately trying to persuade Katya, who let everything go in one ear and out the other. “It makes no sense for a member of a nation’s royal family to behave that way in a foreign land, Your Highness.
Customarily, culturally, and administratively—” “Aide-de-camp.” “—Didn’t I keep telling you? It’s not just the Empire that gets into trouble, but the position of Pope Seonghwa in the Holy Kingdom is also becoming precarious—” “Aide-de-camp.” “…….” “Aide-de-camp.” “……Please bear with it.” The last sentence was what Aiden said upon seeing Noel stealthily reaching for his sword sheath.
It was a gesture laced with such sincerity that it made one think he might actually cut him down, considering he was an immortal human anyway… … . '… … "It’s a bit better compared to when we were fighting tooth and nail until not long ago, though." Compared to the atmosphere back then, this is nothing.
Still, it’s a relief that Noel has such a good personality. To think he’s treating someone who committed such a crazy act without holding a grudge now.
“I told you, the whole situation is a bit strange to begin with.” Whether or not she was aware of Noel’s state, Katya clasped her hands behind her head and spoke indifferently. “You two are about to attend all sorts of official events as a married couple.
How were you planning to handle those schedules without an aide?” “…….” That’s true. Come to think of it, didn’t Noel say he would appoint an aide before, only to put it off, saying he would pick someone outstanding?
“It’s odd. A servant is one of the best ways to show your status.
At your level, not having one would actually draw disapproving glances.” “Is it really that bad?” “…… It’s common sense in high society. Lionheart, how on earth are you treating your husband?” Good heavens.
It was one thing for the word "common sense" to slip out of this man's mouth so nonchalantly, but it was equally bizarre to see Noel clear his throat in response as if he were apologetic. "I can just help with the escort and other miscellaneous tasks before going to official events. It’s just that I haven't found anyone who meets the standards yet." "Well, whatever the circumstances, the point is that if you don't take him along, it’s hard to get a good look from those around you." Katya continued, patting his cheek. "As I said before, letting him go to such events all alone and unarmed is an act that tarnishes both your reputation and your husband's.
You know that, don't you?" Seemingly having little to refute, Noel pursed his lips and fell silent. "...It would be best to just avoid taking Mr. Aiden to those kinds of events." "If you don't even drag your future husband to high society, what kind of talk do you expect to hear?
Speculation about your marriage will be running wild." “That is something I will handle on my own. Neither you nor I want you to get unnecessarily entangled in big trouble, Mr.
Aiden.” … … No. Aiden looked at Noel, who continued speaking adamantly, with a look of near disbelief.
“I don’t want to burden you that much.” It occurs to me, but sometimes I wonder if this person is even allowed to be this inflexible. However, upon hearing those words, Noel’s eyes curved into a rounded shape, as if he had heard something completely unexpected.
“Huh? But…” “We could just go out together.
Wasn’t the point of marrying me in the first place so you wouldn’t be in trouble in situations like that?” “…That is true, but…” “Then you should make use of it. Don’t I have a job to do, too?” Although it started out being half-kidnapping, he could feel firsthand every time that this person was trying to help him with all his heart.
Whether it was money or convenience, it felt like this person was always doing his best for Aiden, even beyond the 'contracted terms.' It wouldn't be that difficult to give something back. After all, I heard the reason they 'hired' Aiden in the first place was because having the husband's position officially vacant would cause various troubles.
“......Yeah.” However, upon hearing that, Noel hesitated and fidgeted with his lips. He looked like he was pondering for quite a while about what to say.
“Thank…… you.” “.......At the reaction, which made it seem as though he was unaccustomed to the very act of kindness directed at him, Aiden was left speechless. In fact, it wasn't even kindness, but something that was taken for granted, yet the way he reacted with slight discomfort was dumbfounding.
'How on earth did he become this kind of person?' How could a human being with this level of ability and position have such low self-esteem? It was simply baffling.
He let out a deep sigh inwardly and continued speaking. “Then, if you are not pleased with the Princess serving as your aide right now, couldn't you just assign anyone as a servant for now and take that position?” “That is nonsense.” “That is indeed nonsense.” Both sides cut off such remarks as if they were not even worth considering.
“An aide is almost always someone who is in close proximity to the person being served. No matter how much vetting is done, it is never enough.
There is a reason why no one has been hired until now.” “You are saying the easiest professions for assassinating a VIP are a cook, a tailor, and a secretary or an aide?” “… …” It feels like the first time I’ve seen these two hit it off. If they’re dismissing it simultaneously like this, I can roughly tell just how dangerous it really is.
“...So you’re saying we can’t just appoint anyone as a subordinate.” “Exactly. I’m saying I’ll handle it.
What are you worrying about?” At Katya’s words, Noel glared at her again. “Aren’t you taking this matter too lightly?” “Besides, the regular Imperial banquet is coming up soon.
I don’t know about other occasions, but you have to attend that one anyway, don’t you?” “Even so, Your Highness becoming Mr. Aiden’s subordinate is a completely different matter—” “...No.” Aiden cut Noel off before he could finish.
As he stroked his chin and became lost in thought, he looked like he was crunching numbers in his head. “Actually, I don’t think that’s as bad as you’d think.” “....” Noel looked at Aiden as if he had been struck on the back of the head.
“What on earth—” “If being royalty is a problem, then just lie about it.” “Huh?” “Isn’t it enough just not to get caught? Then there are ways to do it.
At the very least, couldn’t I just cover my face?” “Oh—we actually get along.” In contrast to Katya, who spoke with a grinning smile, Noel pressed his hand to his forehead and spoke with difficulty. “……Mr.
Aiden, your attitude seems a bit different from before.” “No. I mean, I need to leave a 'good impression' on people.” “……Huh?” “It’s the first event we’re attending together, so shouldn’t we do well?” “…….” Noel stared at Aiden with wide eyes.
He looked as though he hadn't expected such words to come from his mouth of all people. It was as if he, who had been doing everything in his power to avoid troublesome things until now, was actually welcoming someone who was clearly the epitome of a nuisance.
However, Aiden was not in a position to simply ignore what had just been said. He could overlook other official events, but the schedule Katya had just brought up was something he simply couldn't ignore.
'If it's the regular Imperial Palace banquet...' Originally, within the game, this is merely a detail mentioned briefly as "an event like this," but if you delve into the specifics, its importance rises significantly. It is an event where not only members of the Imperial Family and influential nobles but also powerful figures from other nations make frequent appearances.
That is because it is a place where key figures of the main scenario are highly likely to show up. Why?
§SKILL§
◈ Weaver of Fate Only you know the truth of this world. Earn new rewards by building bonds with important characters in the main story! … … In other words, it means you can make excellent use of this.
Now that there is a need to actively intervene in the main scenario unlike before, collecting good abilities as quickly as possible is of even greater importance than in the past. And I already know who I should target first. "The Priestess.
And the Prince." The Priestess of Urgan who likely came from the tribal confederation. And, the legitimate heir to the Empire's throne. … … And the suitor clinging to Lord Noel.
The reason Aiden is here. These are prominent figures who exert a tremendous influence even within the main scenario.
“……Mr. Aiden.” Noel spoke again, looking as if his head was throbbing.
“I trust your abilities, and I am glad that you care about me, but. However, aristocratic society is no different from a battlefield in many respects.
It is a place where you can be nitpicked over even the most trivial things, so perhaps you should reconsider.” “If you mean being nitpicked over, which kind of thing are you referring to?” “It is a place where they try to disparage you based on etiquette, customs, or even the slightest subtle cues and gestures. Anyone who has never been to such a place would likely find it difficult to have a good experience.” “…….” Aiden tilted his head slightly at the way Noel spoke, as if spitting out his words.
It was rare for him to express such a negative opinion about someone so immediately. How should he put it?
“I know it might be rude, but have you had any bad experiences?” “……I can’t say I have any pleasant memories.” Aiden gave a wry smile at Noel’s stiff reply. After all, given his personality, it felt like he had lived completely cut off from backroom deals, subtle human relationships, and politics.
And if that is the case. “Then I’ll boost your spirits.” “……Huh?” “I’ll make sure no one can look down on you.” It was his turn to be of help to Noel this time.
'I’m just going to stay close with this person anyway.' … … I have no intention of viewing people as skill vending machines, but nevertheless, the 'relationship' with this person is a major pillar that will be central to Aiden's survival going forward. In that sense, helping her is by no means a bad investment.
In that sense. Etiquette?
Customs? Tact?
Unless it is a place where violence clashes with violence, if those things serve as 'weapons,' it is practically Aiden's home ground. After all, what was his means of making a living in the first place?
'And… …' He knew of an ability that would give wings to such talents of his.
§SKILL§
◈ Weaver of Fate . . .
『Lionel XIII 』 - Jude:Step 1 - You can copy 1 skill. The copy right I had previously received from the Emperor.
It was time to use it. [ Copy 'Special Skill: Imperial Bloodline'. ]
▣
In high society, where there is never a moment of peace, stories of all kinds of people are bound to tangle and float around like a complex ball of yarn. This is especially true for a grand event like an Imperial banquet, where people from all over the Empire gather.
Rumors circulate that a noble lady from somewhere dumped someone, or that a high-ranking noble from somewhere had an affair... While such places are like hubs for gossip where such stories are scattered in all directions, today's banquet had one topic that particularly heated things up. "I hear the Prince is attending today's banquet?" "To be able to see His Royal Face once more—it is truly a stroke of luck!" There are many types of men who are the object of envy in high society, but it would be safe to say that no one is as perfect in every respect as the Prince.
She possesses status, ability, and beauty; she is even still on the very young side, and her standing within the Imperial Household is incredibly solid. It is by no means surprising that her mere presence becomes the talk of the town.
Just the mention of her name brought radiant smiles and a pleasant atmosphere to the noble ladies. “Ah, there is one more interesting thing.” “Yes?
What is it?” “I heard that ‘Lion Heart’ is also attending today accompanied by his consort.” “……Ah, is that so?” In stark contrast to before, a subtle tension hung over the table. “Lion Heart…… He is a formidable knight.” “Indeed.” Although they said so, what was etched on their faces were sneers and a subtle displeasure.
He is indeed a remarkable person. To have established such a standing on his own at that age is undeniably impressive.
However. “……So, he really does have a groom.
I heard she was married, but I thought it was just a rumor.” “I wondered who would like such a wild woman—but fortunately, it seems there are men with unique tastes.” Noble ladies, who had little interest in complex political affairs, tended to hold little respect for Lionheart, the knight representing the nation. Even though he had distinguished himself in a war that turned the entire continent into a quagmire, it didn't really resonate with them.
Despite having established such a standing, he was a figure firmly ingrained in high society as "arrogant" due to his attitude of always being stuffy, rigid, and never opening his heart to anyone. Noel might argue that he merely remained neutral because he didn't want to be swept up by any faction, but that was of no concern to them.
And above all. “Shall we take a look at just what a great husband he is?
Just how dare he reject the Prince’s proposal like that—” The lady, having unwittingly voiced her true feelings, shut her mouth at the glares pouring down from those around her. After all, no one here was unaware that bringing such words up directly was too conspicuous.
However, seeing that no one voiced a dissenting voice, it seemed everyone agreed with the sentiment itself. From their perspective, the fact that they 'dared' to reject the proposal of the Prince—who was beyond their reach—was a truly infuriating matter.
“Sir Noel Astria Seamus of the Imperial Command is entering!” It seems the very person in question is making the procession in person, just as the saying goes, “Speak of the devil and he appears.” The young ladies all covered their mouths with fans and looked down at the person walking into the entrance with arrogant gazes. The first thing to catch their eye was Sajasim, who strode into the hall with an emotionless face.
“...A uniform again?” “How stuffy. I’ve known for a while that you have no sense of style, but it would be nice if you at least pretended to try.” To think he has no intention of even adhering to the basic dress code—he is truly an insolent human being.
Sharing this sentiment, the young ladies soon turned their gaze to the side. And then.
The sight of the groom entering arm in arm with Sajasim. “.......” “.......” “.......” The young ladies, who had been chewing on Sajasim with contempt just moments ago, fell silent in unison.
Everyone was likely having a similar thought for a moment. … … It’s understandable that he has high standards. If only the opportunity to marry a man like that had been available until now.
Judging by his appearance, such an assessment is entirely justified. He is not a sculpted handsome man or a tycoon clad in designer goods that are obvious at a glance.
In the first place, it would be difficult to elicit such a reaction from such things. People like that are everywhere in high society.
Rather. The person standing next to Sajasim would normally be someone who doesn't even qualify as such a person, and would be more likely to be ridiculed for being such an ignorant fool showing up in a place like this.
However. He exudes an 'aura' that is only seen in the Prince who was just the subject of conversation.
He possesses a 'dignity' that is typically felt only in members of the Imperial Family. At a glance, he radiates an atmosphere that this man is not an ordinary person.
“The, the first impression is quite decent.” “H-hmm.” As someone cleared their throat and made those remarks, everyone let out a sigh of reluctant agreement. However, the evaluation was not yet over.
Just because he appeared dignified on the surface did not mean he was a husband of high standing. Without proper ability or lineage, wasn't he nothing more than a beautiful facade hiding a rotten core?
While each of them was having these thoughts, the Chairman's security guard stopped them as they attempted to enter. “The identity of the person standing beside you is…?” While Lionheart’s bodyguard was Sir Stella, well-known as his subordinate, the human standing beside him, clad in 'full-body armor' including a face-covering visor, was someone whose true identity was unknown to anyone.
It was likely a restraint based on that fact. “Subordinate.” As that brief voice flowed from Lionheart’s consort, that 'proof of identity'—which no one could refute—immediately bloomed from the figure in the armor.
A colorless flame. Small, yet an 'ability' that no one could fail to recognize.
Those who wield divinity belong to two categories: royalty, and the Paladins bound to them by oaths. Surely, he couldn't be royalty, so the one standing there must be a Paladin.
And, just as that conclusion was reached... Inside the chairman's officeA distinct silence fell, a stark contrast to just moments ago.
It must have been because not only the young ladies at the nearby tables, but everyone inside the hall who had been watching this scene closely, was shocked. “……S-Sacred…….” “Is a Paladin from the Holy Empire assigned as his adjutant……?” A Paladin is a top-tier personnel used exclusively for guarding the royal family of the Holy Empire.
The Holy Empire’s most formidable military force. The fact that he has such a person as an ‘adjutant’ clearly proves that this man is, at the very least, treated on par with the royal family of the Holy Empire.
It must be an immense luxury that even the most high-ranking nobles cannot enjoy. “…….” “…….” The sound of someone swallowing dryly could be heard clearly.
Perhaps, that alone had firmly imprinted itself on everyone. That the man over there, perhaps.
He might be the most ‘important’ man in this hall right now.
▣
§SKILL§
◆ Unique Ability: Imperial Bloodline Members of the Imperial Family born with noble blood possess an innate charisma that naturally captivates the crowd. 'Charisma' skyrockets when you are noticed by many.
Additionally, you automatically resist certain mental interferences, and certain 'actions' occur automatically while this effect is active. … … As expected. It was a good thing I copied this.
Thinking this, Aiden gazed at the window that had appeared before him. -System Message [ The majority of humans in this location are watching you. ] [ Many feel a liking for you. ] [ These are the optimal conditions to use 'Weaver of Fate'! ] … … Right.
Upon seeing that message, Aiden whistled to himself. As expected, it was a good decision to put so much effort into dressing up like this.
It seems he succeeded in leaving a deep impression with Katya as well. 'All that remains is… …' to scrape together as many skills as possible from the 'important figures' inside this hall.
As Aiden walked ahead thinking this, a whooshing whistle followed behind him. The sound of Katya, clad in full armor, snickering echoed inside as if resonating.
“You said you’d boost my spirits, and now you’re just like a fish in water.” That voice fell toward Noel like a whisper. As if resentment still lingered from their recent fight, it was brimming with the intention to tease Noel.
“…….” Hearing those words from the side, Noel silently pulled his hat down low. It was clearly a way of expressing his absolute refusal to let her see his expression.
Judging by the heat rising to his ears, one could tell just what he looked like. “Words must be spreading now that you have such a decent husband.
You’ll never be looked down upon anywhere in society anymore, Lionheart.” “……Shut up.”