Chapter 4: Secure the Elixir

The morning after arriving in the capital. Ryuu and Stingray finished breakfast at the inn.

“I’m going out with Stingray, so you take it easy.”

“I’m going to spend the day relaxing and eating hay.”

““Neeigh.””

After greeting their horses, the two set off for a stroll.

“I know a capital should have a lot of people, but this is getting annoying. I feel like I’ll get lost if I drop my guard for even a second.”

“You’ll get used to it soon enough. Just hang in there.”

“We’re only here for four days at most, since the Elixir pickup is tomorrow.”

“…I forgot.”

(I can’t do this. I was totally in vacation mode.)

Stingray had been traveling alone for several years, so her homing instinct was weaker than the average person’s.

“Come to think of it, I heard Rena-sama is planning to take the Imperial Academy entrance exam next year. Are you not going to buy a mansion in the capital?”

“Ardren’s finances make buying one difficult, though we might manage a rental. But for security reasons, I’m thinking of having Rena live in the dorms for now.”

“Ah. Even with the capital’s high security, the risk of getting caught up in something isn't zero. If we can't afford a mansion and staff on par with the main estate, choosing the student dorms is probably the wise move.”

Stingray stopped suddenly and turned toward Ryuu.

“…By the way, changing the subject, why are you so close with the First Princess? What’s the connection? I can’t imagine a point of contact between you, living on the frontier, and the Princess…”

“That’s a long story. Maybe next time.”

“Ehh, Lord Ryuu, you’re stingy.”

“Stingy is fine. Ardren is poor.”

As they walked down the main street, Ryuu spotted the First Princess waiting ahead, even though they hadn't made an appointment.

“Ah!! Lord Ryuu~!!”

“Princess… you shouldn't come down to the city so unprotected.”

“It’s fine! I brought the Imperial Knights with me today!”

An Imperial Knight, disguised as a commoner to avoid drawing attention, gave Ryuu a polite bow.

“I-Imperial Knights… the real deal…”

Stingray was overwhelmed. To a knight, the Imperial Guard was an object of adoration.

“Where are you going today?”

“I’m planning to head to the Weal Grand Library.”

“In that case, why don't I show you the Imperial Castle’s archives instead? We have a larger collection than the Weal Grand Library, and we even have some dangerous forbidden books.”

“F-forbidden books… What a wonderful sound…”

(No, no. I almost got lured in and followed her right there.)

“That is a tempting offer, but I must decline this time.”

“I see… That’s a shame.”

The Imperial Knight glared sharply at Ryuu.

(You don't have to glare that hard. Going to the Imperial Castle all of a sudden is too high a hurdle. I’m from the backwaters of the frontier. It’s like a mole crawling out onto the surface for the first time.)

Before long, they arrived at their destination: the Grand Library.

Commoners had to undergo various screenings to prevent theft, but nobles could use it freely just by presenting their family crest.

“A library that houses books from not just the Empire, but the entire continent… There’s no reason not to come here.”

“Experience and knowledge can’t be bought with money. I didn't use it before because the screening was a pain, but thanks to Lord Ryuu, I can get in today. I plan to read my fill.”

For Ryuu, a notorious bookworm, this place was like heaven. It couldn't be helped that the corners of his mouth turned up involuntarily.

“The Castle has so many more books, though… Sigh.”

“Elina-sama, we agreed you wouldn't say that.”

Dozens of minutes later, the three were seated at a table, enjoying their reading. Well, one of them was simply gazing at Ryuu with a smile.

Over a hundred magic tomes were piled high on the table. Ryuu continued to flip through the pages at an inhuman speed.

“………………”

Even though he was supposedly reading, his eyes and hands were moving at full throttle. It took him less than three minutes to finish a single thick volume. The people around them watched the scene with their mouths agape.

“Um, Lord Ryuu. Are you actually reading those?”

“Yeah. It’s all going into my head perfectly.”

“I-I see.”

(He’s actually reading at that speed…)

Even so, the Princess seemed to be enjoying herself the whole time.

“S-so this is a library date…! Lord Ryuu. Shall I go return those and bring you some new ones?”

“No, I’ll get them myself. Thank you for the offer.”

Even while talking, Ryuu’s hands and eyes never rested as he continued to devour the magic books.

(Such incredible focus… He’s not just a bookworm; he’s like a book monster…)

The First Princess was moved by the sight of Ryuu. ‘Book monster’ was an apt description.

In the end, Ryuu continued to gorge himself on books until his heart was content. By the time they left the library, the sky had turned madder-red.

As an Imperial Knight, the guard wanted Ryuu to treat the Princess with more special care, but since she looked so happy, he didn't say anything.

Just before the sun went down, the three were walking down the main street again.

“I was so absorbed in the books that I forgot to eat lunch. I’m sorry for imposing on you, Your Highness. And you too, Stingray.”

“Don't worry about it!! I’m perfectly satisfied!!”

“No, really. When I was traveling, skipping lunch was a common occurrence.”

“But you’re hungry, right?”

“…Yes.”

Stingray replied bashfully. Then, the Princess spoke up.

“In that case, shall I lead you to a good restaurant?”

“I can't let a Princess do that.”

“It’s fine! I’ll do anything for Lord Ryuu!!”

“Then, I’ll take you up on that.”

Seeing how close the two seemed, Stingray puffed out her cheeks.

“Hmph…”

Elina led them to an upscale restaurant near the inn. They were welcomed by a graceful staff member and immediately shown to a vacant table.

Ryuu and Stingray scanned the menu for a while, and after serious consideration, both decided to order the same thing.

“Two flying rabbit stews. Also, two earth dragon fillet steaks. For sides, a seasonal vegetable salad and some natural yeast bread made from Grace wheat.”

As for the Princess…

“The usual, please.”

“Certainly. Please wait a moment.”

After about ten minutes of restless waiting, the food was finally served.

““Ooooh~.””

“Hehe. The food here is piping hot, so be careful not to burn yourselves.”

Seeing the two of them looking like children, Elina couldn't help but smile.

The flying rabbit meat was so tender it melted on the tongue, and the earth dragon steak provided a punch of flavor followed by the delicate aroma of herbs. The seasonal salad went perfectly with the dressing, leaving a crisp, pleasant texture. And the natural yeast bread released a sweetness with every bite, so delicious it made one imagine those golden wheat fields.

In short—

“This is absolutely incredible.”

“This is crazy good.”

“It is, isn't it? It’s ‘crazy good’ here.”

The three of them savored the exquisite meal.

Meanwhile, outside the restaurant.

“So this is it. The restaurant where that Ryuu Ardren kid everyone’s talking about is supposed to be.”

◇　◇　◇

As Ryuu, Elina, and Stingray were enjoying their meal, the area near the entrance suddenly went deathly silent. Even the waitstaff’s expressions grew rigid with tension.

A crimson-haired woman began walking toward their table.

She didn't waste a second. As soon as she arrived, she opened her mouth.

“...Why are you here, Elina?”

There was only one woman in this empire who could address the First Princess by her name alone, without a single title.

Wait, could this be...? Ryuu thought.

She had scarlet hair, a rarity in this world. Her face was beautiful yet dignified, possessing a gaze sharper than any blade. Her voice alone felt like it could shake one's very soul. And then there was her aura—the unmistakable, suffocating pressure of an apex predator.

This woman was none other than the "Empress of Terror," feared by every neighboring nation: Iris Astoria herself.

“Ehehe. I figured that if Mother was coming to see Lord Ryuu, it would be today,” Elina chirped. “I ordered the Imperial Guards to keep my presence a secret. I’m sorry!”

“Hmph... You are a troublesome daughter.”

The conversation seemed to hit a natural lull, so Ryuu stood up.

“Pardon my manners. I am—”

“Enough. I am here on private business. Formalities are unnecessary,” the Empress interrupted. “Besides, I know well who you are, Ryuu Ardren.”

“...Might I ask how you know of me?”

“Don't play the fool. After the ruckus you caused, I had little choice but to investigate.”

“Are you referring to the war with Baron Manntester? That was merely a stroke of luck—the heavens favoring us in a moment of chance.”

“Hmph. ‘Chance,’ he says. You certainly have a silver tongue for a first meeting. Most young nobles would be as flustered as that girl over there, unable to find their words... Are you not afraid of me?”

“I’m terrified, to be honest,” Ryuu replied flatly. “Actually, I’d like to go back to my inn as soon as possible.”

“Kukuku. What a cheeky brat.”

“You can praise me all you want, but the best I can offer you is Baron Manntester’s head.”

“Ho? You still have that man’s head?”

“Actually, I threw it away quite a while ago. It was getting rather filthy.”

“Hmph. You get my hopes up for nothing.”

While Elina watched the two exchange barbs with a beaming smile, Stingray’s heart was hammering against her ribs.

What is happening?! Why is Lord Ryuu talking to Her Imperial Majesty like they’re old pals?!

Ryuu suddenly looked up, staring directly at Iris.

“Now that I think about it... have you been sending spies into Ardren territory?”

“Who knows.”

“Like at the checkpoint in the Margrave of Grace’s lands, for instance?”

The Empress’s eyes narrowed. “You... how did you know that?”

“Well, I wonder why?”

“………………”

As I thought, he definitely leans toward the side of the strategist.

Stingray was reeling from the atmosphere of the scene, her mind racing. Wait, so Lord Ryuu was telling the truth back then?!

In short, from the moment Ryuu and his party entered the Grace Margraviate, the Empress had already known they were headed for the capital. This "chance" encounter had been calculated from the start.

...Except for Elina’s presence, that is.

“Very well. I have one question for you. I went through the trouble of coming to the lower city specifically to hear your answer.”

The Empress’s gaze grew even sharper. The idle chatter was over; this was the real reason she was here.

“I’m happy to answer anything.”

“First. During the recent battle, did you personally take up a spear?”

“I did not. I simply commanded the army from the rear.”

“Is that the truth?”

“It is. If you doubt me, feel free to have your spies dig as deep as they like. I won't stand in their way.”

“I see...”

“If you’re still not satisfied... why don't you ask the mage over there?”

Ryuu shifted his gaze toward a navy-haired woman sitting at a back table.

The woman turned around, her expression twisting into one of suspicion.

“You... how on earth did you notice my presence?”

“Just a hunch.”

“Don't lie to me!” the woman barked. “Did you recognize my face? Did you sense my mana? Or was it...?”

“Calm yourself, Zekkai,” the Empress interjected. “If he’s seen through you, he’s seen through you. This man isn't the type to spill his secrets just because you press him. Give it up.”

“Kh... As you wish.”

The Imperial Mages were a corps of super-elite soldiers, exceptional in both intellect and martial prowess, who traveled the continent carrying out the Empress’s secret orders.

Zekkai was no exception. She was a master capable of drowning an entire army in an instant—an individual who wielded magic that literally transcended the boundaries of the craft.

In all her years of service, she had never once been made while on the job. Her mana concealment was top-tier.

And yet, her identity had just been exposed. By a boy who wasn't even of age. The blow to her pride was clearly making her lose her cool.

As expected of my Lord Ryuu! To see through Zekkai! Elina thought, her eyes sparkling.

“So, what is the verdict? Tell me your impression through the eyes of a mage.”

Following the Empress’s order, Zekkai scrutinized Ryuu with her battle-hardened eyes.

His mana capacity is on par with any other noble child. I can't see his build through those clothes, but he looks like he’s trained a bit. That sword... a katana, was it? He seems to dabble in martial arts. He might be poor at magic. His center of gravity is unremarkable. His posture is full of openings. And... I don't feel a single shred of the pressure associated with the truly strong.

“He is likely at the same level as any other noble scion,” Zekkai reported. “Though it seems he has a bit of a devious wit...”

“I see.”

The Empress frowned slightly. Something feels off... but if Zekkai says so, it must be true. Had he been a gifted combatant, I would have scouted him for the Imperial Mages myself... A shame, Ryuu Ardren.

For the record, Ryuu wasn't a "noble scion"; he was technically the head of a barony. He was only fourteen, so it was an easy detail to overlook.

“The air seems a bit heavy. Is everything alright?” Ryuu asked innocently.

“Pay it no mind. Internal matters.”

“Understood.”

The atmosphere had reached a perfect point to wrap things up, so Ryuu caught Stingray’s eye. She gave a small nod.

Today wasn't a scheduled meeting; it was "just a coincidence" that Ryuu, Elina, the Empress, and Zekkai happened to be in the same place. Pushing their luck any further would be unwise.

Ryuu briskly picked up his things, but then he realized something.

“………………”

Crap. I totally forgot my wallet.

Looking at the Empress, who seemed a bit gloomy because her expectations hadn't been met, Ryuu spoke up.

“Empress Iris.”

“What is it?”

“I have answered your questions politely and concisely.”

“Indeed.”

“In return for my cooperation...”

The Empress braced herself. What is he going to demand of me?

“Um... could you take care of the bill?”

““““Eh?””””

In the end, Ryuu stuck the Empress with the check and beat a hasty retreat with Stingray. Elina decided to stay at the restaurant, so they parted ways there.

“I guess that counts as getting treated to a meal by Her Majesty.”

“...You just shook her down, didn't you? That was practically a capital offense,” Stingray sighed.

“I’m gonna brag so hard when we get home. 'The Empress Lunch.'”

“Please don't... it’s so embarrassing...”

Meanwhile, back inside the restaurant...

“Mother, what did you think of Baron Ardren?” Elina asked.

“Hmm... He has spirit, but to be honest, he was within the realm of my expectations.”

“And yet, I suspect something about him is still bothering you.”

“………………”

The Empress remained silent. Her daughter had hit the mark.

“In that case, please let me go and investigate him. I... have a few personal interests regarding Lord Ryuu as well.”

“Despite what happened last time, you wish to go to the borderlands again? And for a trivial reason like investigating an Ardren?”

“But if I visit the Grace Margraviate again, it will serve as a sign that the Imperial Family still trusts the Margrave.”

“That sentiment and the investigation of an Ardren aren't enough. The justification is too weak.”

Elina took a deep breath. “I will get a commitment from the Grace Margrave to mobilize his army.”

“A commitment from the Margrave...?”

The Grace Margrave’s army was one of the five strongest forces in the Empire.

However, that army hadn't participated in a war for over a decade. Because they were distant from the central government, they had—quite disrespectfully—rejected the Empress’s calls to arms.

The Empress couldn't exactly force the issue, as she couldn't afford to start a fight with the Empire’s breadbasket. Elina was claiming she could move that immovable army.

Considering the current international climate, that is a force I desperately desire, but...

“...And how do you intend to persuade the Margrave?”

“I haven't thought of that yet! But I’ll do my best!!”

“Kukuku... As usual, you’re all bluster.” The Empress smiled. Truly, it is like looking at my younger self. “Fine. I grant you permission. Prepare to depart in time with Ryuu Ardren’s return to his territory.”

“Yes!! Thank you so much!!”

I did it, Lord Ryuu! I’m coming to see you again!

◇　◇　◇　

The day arrived to collect the Elixir.

Ryuu and Stingray were heading toward the commoner district to visit the pharmacist. For some reason, there was no ambush from the First Princess today.

“Man, yesterday was really something, wasn't it?”

“You don't usually see the First Princess, the Empress, and an Imperial Mage all at once,” Ryuu agreed. “What did you think of it all, Stingray?”

“I thought Empress Iris was kinder than I expected. She didn't even get mad when you spoke to her so casually.”

“It felt that way last night, but I bet she’s normally scarier than a demon. She was probably just acting friendly because she wanted to scout me.”

“Scout...? What for?”

“If my combat ability had been high enough, I think she would have invited me to join the Imperial Mages.”

“The Mages?! Like Zekkai-san?!”

“Exactly. I almost ended up being Zekkai-san’s coworker yesterday.”

Reaching their destination, they checked the map and headed toward the pharmacist’s residence. The houses in the capital, Weal, used a lot of white stone, making the cityscape quite beautiful.

“What did you think of the Empress, Lord Ryuu?”

“A scary woman overflowing with ambition.”

“Ambition? For what?”

“I don't know.”

“Well, that’s helpful...”

“If I had to guess... she’s secretly plotting something that only she can achieve. Something that will significantly shift the course of history.”

“Then maybe yesterday was part of that.”

“Yeah. If we’d talked any longer, I might have been fast-tracked into a civil servant position. I’m glad we left when we did.”

“I don't think anyone in the Empire could turn down a direct invitation from Her Majesty, though...”

“Exactly.”

“But wouldn't it be a huge win if you were invited to be a Minister or something?”

“Not a chance. I’d probably be 'gifted' a grand mansion in the capital with a full staff of servants as a commemorative prize.”

“Isn't that the dream?”

“It would mean a hundred servants who are also Imperial spies would be moving into Ardren territory. Are you okay with that?”

“Ah...”

Just like the recruitment, no noble could refuse a gift from the Emperor. Even foreign royalty would find it difficult.

Furthermore, maintaining a mansion in the capital would require at least a hundred servants, and to support them, one would be forced to continue serving as a Minister.

“I’d be tied to the Minister’s seat for life just to feed a hundred spies... the mere thought is terrifying.”

“You can't exactly fire servants given to you by the Empress. That would be disrespectful.”

“And knowing her, she’d probably only give me enough of a salary to barely cover the spies’ wages.”

“She really is planning to bind you, heart and soul. You’re right... the Empress is terrifying...”

The two of them talked as if it were someone else’s problem, despite the fact that Ryuu had already committed the ultimate disrespect of making the Empress pay for his lunch.

It was a stroke of luck that there were no gossips present to spread the word. As expected of a restaurant with the First Princess’s seal of approval.

“But if you had a mansion in the capital, the First Princess would probably come over to play every day!”

“Yeah, she definitely would. I can already see her demanding her own room.”

“Ahaha. She’s certainly proactive.”

I’m so jealous, Stingray thought. I wish I could be that proactive.

“Zekkai-san was amazing too.”

“She was exactly what you’d expect from an Imperial Mage. As long as the Empire has people like her, it’ll be secure.”

“By the way, how did you figure out she was a mage?”

“Her mana quality was on a completely different level from everyone else.”

Ryuu vividly recalled the moment he faced Zekkai.

“Mana quality?”

“Yeah. No one in this world can completely suppress their mana. Even an Imperial Mage can't pull that off. Essentially, I sensed the faint mana she was emitting, and the quality was insane. It was like a work of art.”

“I... see.”

Seeing that Stingray wasn't quite following, Ryuu continued.

“To use a metaphor... if an ordinary person’s mana is muddy water, and a wizard’s is river water...”

“Mhm.”

“...then Zekkai’s mana is spring water. Purified by the earth, beautiful and transparent. A refined mana that anyone would fall in love with.”

“In short, she’s really amazing.”

“Exactly. Super amazing.”

Having established that both the Empress and Zekkai were "super amazing," they finally arrived at their destination.

“This is the pharmacist’s house...?”

“I was... expecting something a bit more like a laboratory.”

Standing before them was a dilapidated mansion. Honestly, it was hard to believe a renowned pharmacist lived there.

“To put it nicely, it has character,” Stingray offered.

“To put it bluntly, it’s a haunted house.”

However, for the sake of his mother, Ryuu had to get that Elixir. He steeled himself and took a step forward...

“Who are ye callin' a haunted house?! Cheeky brat!!”

A girl wearing a grimy white coat burst through the door.

She looked to be about ten years old.

The sight was so lacking in intimidation or dignity that the two of them couldn't help but smile.

“Is this your daughter? Are your parents home?” Ryuu asked.

“She’s wearing a white coat, so she might be an apprentice,” Stingray added. “You’re so hardworking for such a little thing. Here, have a piece of candy.”

Ryuu pulled a candy out of his pocket and handed it to the girl.

“Ohooo! It’s been ages since I’ve had somethin' sweet!!”

“Hehe. She’s cute, isn't she?”

“Steel for steel, magic for magic, and candy for children. It’s the law of the world.”

“Don't treat me like a child! I’m Estelle, the pharmacist!!”

““Eh?!””

Looking closely at the fuming Estelle, they noticed two pointed ears peeking out from her long blonde hair.

“Wait, are you an elf?”

“Indeed! I am an Elf, of the legendary race! Bow before me!!” Estelle puffed out her flat chest.

“That’s incredible.” Ryuu reached out and touched her ear.

“H-Hey!! Don't just touch me ears!! They be quite sensitive...”

With a blush on her cheeks and a candy rolling around on her tongue, she looked just like any other young girl.

In this world, there were many races besides humans. Beastmen and Dwarves were especially common, and you’d see them quite often walking through the city.

On the other hand, rarer races were few and far between. They usually formed small tribes and lived in isolation, so they were rarely seen. These non-human races were collectively known as "demi-humans."

Elves were considered rare even among the rare races. As Estelle had said, they were practically legendary.

Most elves kept to themselves deep within the forests, making them nearly impossible to find. This only added to the "legendary" status.

And because elves possessed vastly higher mana capacities and life spans than other races, someone who looked like a child—like Estelle—could easily be over a hundred years old.

Asking a woman her age was a taboo in this world too, so Ryuu decided to keep his mouth shut.

“This be me research lab! Be grateful for the entrance!!”

“I don't know about grateful. You’re the one who called me here, Estelle.”

“Don't get smart with me, ye foolish Baron!!”

They decided to take the conversation inside. While the exterior looked like a haunted house, the interior was... not exactly clean. Books and trash were scattered across the floor.

There were also suspicious experimental tools, medicine bottles filled with strange liquids, and unknown poisonous herbs everywhere. The entire house was filled with a bizarre smell.

Unlike the small Estelle, the two of them were fairly large, and they kept stepping on things as they walked. Estelle told them it was fine, as the truly important stuff was kept on the shelves.

What kind of drugs is this mad scientist cooking up...? Ryuu wondered.

“Estelle, are you okay with this smell?”

“Hm? Is there a foul odor? Sorry, my sense of smell died long ago, so I didn't notice. I apologize.”

“Don't worry about it. We’ll get used to it soon enough.”

“That doesn't sound very healthy...”

Ryuu and Stingray were led to a room in the back and sat on a sofa. Estelle hopped onto the top of a tower of books and sat down.

She crossed her arms and looked at them. “First, about why I made ye come all this way...”

“You wanted to check the patient’s condition and make sure I wasn't some corrupt noble, right?” Ryuu finished.

“Aye, I like a man who catches on quick!”

The effects of an Elixir were staggering. It was said to be a panacea that could cure any wound or illness.

Rumor had it that it could even instantly regenerate lost limbs. A true miracle of the gods.

Having such a medicine on hand would be incredibly reassuring. The pharmacist who brewed it—Estelle—was truly someone beyond the realm of ordinary people.

As for the patient’s condition, she needed to know the details just in case—by some miracle—the medicine didn't work. It would serve as a reference for a remake.

Such information was also a valuable research material to be shared within the pharmaceutical community. This was how medicine progressed.

Ensuring the buyer wasn't a corrupt noble was also crucial.

The value of an Elixir was immeasurable. When one appeared on the black market or at a dark auction, it fetched an astronomical price. There was no end to the nobles who bought them solely for resale.

For a pharmacist, having their medicine resold in the underworld was the ultimate insult. The reason buyers were limited to nobles was simply because commoners couldn't afford them.

For these reasons, Estelle had summoned the head of the house personally. It might seem disrespectful, but she had no intention of selling to a petty noble who would get angry over such a thing.

In that sense, it was a logical way to weed out unsuitable candidates.

◇　◇　◇　

Since Ryuu understood this well, the conversation proceeded smoothly.

“First, the patient is my mother. She started falling ill four years ago...”

“Mhm, mhm.”

I believe I’ve seen records of curing the same illness with an Elixir several times in the past. So there shouldn't be a problem this time, Estelle thought.

“Next, the current state of Ardren is...”

“Oho.”

“And the reason I became the head of the house in the first place was...”

“I see, I see.”

The wisdom and courage to command an army at fourteen. The talent and luck to defeat his enemies. The kindness and planning to travel all the way to the capital for expensive medicine for his mother. And above all, those unwavering eyes that hide a firm will... they’re quite charming. Truly... that fool Zekkai has no eye for talent...

A few dozen minutes later.

“Alright, ye pass!! Take the special Elixir!!”

Estelle reached into her pocket and held up the Elixir.

The bottle was far too large to fit in a normal pocket, so she likely had an item bag sewn into her white coat. Ryuu had to admire her researcher’s efficiency.

“I owe you one.”

“We did it, Lord Ryuu!!” Stingray cheered.

Ryuu had finally obtained the long-sought Elixir.

Now, he just had to bring it back to the Ardren barony safely.

But for a knowledge geek like Ryuu, leaving such a top-tier pharmacist without asking any questions was out of the question.

“Before I go, there are a few things I’d like to ask a world-class pharmacist like yourself.”

“W-World-class...! Ahem! Well, I normally turn such requests down, but I’ll make an exception for ye!”

(She’s such a pushover...) Ryuu thought.

(Way too easy...) Stingray agreed.

And so, Ryuu began his relentless barrage of questions.

“Is it really safe for an 'Elixir-brewing Elf,' a pharmacist of which there are few in the world, to live in a normal residential area like this without any guards?”

“Yeah. It seems like you’d be the first target for corrupt nobles or underground organizations...”

“If anyone tried to trick or use me, Her Imperial Majesty and several high-ranking nobles would fly into a rage and send an army. Those scoundrels understand that well enough.”

“Ah, I see. So you have solid connections with the Empress. That makes sense.”

There’s no way the Empress would leave such an irreplaceable asset alone.

“Well, I am an Imperial Treasure, after all. More importantly, ye talk as if ye’ve actually met Her Majesty.”

“I met her yesterday.”

“...Eh?” Estelle’s mouth hung open. “D-Don't lie to me! Her Majesty rarely appears before others!”

“I was eating at a restaurant, and she just came up and talked to me with a smug look on her face. Right, Stingray?”

“Yes. I still vividly remember that fiery scarlet hair.”

That’s the same way I met Her Majesty... Could it really be true?

“By the way, I’m also on somewhat good terms with the First Princess, but talking about the Imperial Family feels a bit irreverent, so I’ll stop there.”

“He even stuck the Empress with the bill yesterday,” Stingray added.

“Don't say that, Stingray.”

“A-Aye, that’s right, it would be irreverent. Ye made a good call!! You two are very wise!!”

Come to think of it, there’s no way Her Majesty would leave such an interesting brat alone... Wait, did he say the First Princess? I... I’ll just pretend I didn't hear that.

The conversation continued to flow.

The trivia and tidbits of knowledge from a top-tier pharmacist were incredibly stimulating, and Ryuu and Stingray listened intently.

To use a magic metaphor, it was like a mage apprentice listening to a lecture from an Imperial Mage. Estelle wasn't just a pharmacist in name.

Seeing their reactions, Estelle grew even more talkative.

Eventually...

“Hey, Estelle. Why don't you come to Ardren and work on developing new medicines? You’d be more than welcome. I’ll even provide research funds. What do you say?”

“Hmm... it’s a tempting offer, but I still have orders for Elixirs and other medicines piled up. Besides, does Ardren even have any useful herbs?”

Ryuu reached into his item bag and pulled out several herbs.

“I have things like this. I picked them when we were clearing the forest recently.”

“L-Let me see those...”

Estelle’s eyes sparkled as she examined the herbs.

“These are all rare herbs that don't circulate in the general market! Ye mean to tell me these grow in Ardren territory...?”

“Yeah, stuff like this grows everywhere like weeds. We also have plenty of mysterious poisonous herbs that aren't in any encyclopedia. It’s a total backwater, after all.”

“U-Unknown poisonous herbs...? Hehehe, just the thought of it makes me salivate!!”

What is this tiny elf planning to do with poisonous herbs...?

“It’s all true. Right, Stingray?”

“Just as Lord Ryuu says. Though it’s so remote that no famous pharmacists ever visit us.”

“Gnuuuu... I want to be the first... I really do... But I have to finish my current orders first. A pharmacist must never back out of a contract.”

“Then, when you’re done and have some free time, please come visit Ardren.”

“We’ll be waiting for you!”

“I... I understand!! I shall definitely invade Ardren!!”

With that promise made, the two of them departed.

“Farewell, Ryuu, Stingray! I look forward to the day we meet again!!”

“Same here. Thanks for everything, Estelle.”

“Thank you so much! See you later!!”

They checked out of their inn that afternoon and left the capital. On their raptors, they’d reach a nearby city in a few hours, where they planned to stay the night.

“If we hang around, we might get caught by the Empress again.”

“Yes. Let’s hurry and run... I mean, go home.”

Ryuu had met the Empress, the First Princess, and an Imperial Mage on this trip, but from the perspective of his territory’s interests, meeting the loli elf pharmacist Estelle might have been the greatest haul of all.

The next time he needed an Elixir, she’d probably ship it directly from the capital. Though given the price, that would be a long way off...

“I can finally cure Mother’s illness. I can never thank Estelle enough.”

“I’ll protect you on the way back, so don't you worry.”

“How reassuring. As expected of an Ardren knight.”

On the way back, they were attacked by monsters and bandits several times, just like on the way there, but Stingray defeated them all with demonic strength.

As they got closer to Ardren, even the usually cool Ryuu found his expression softening with relief and joy.

Several weeks later, the familiar scenery finally came into view.

“It’s been over a month. Good work, Stingray.”

“Yes!! As a proud knight of Ardren, there are no better words!!”

Ryuu spotted several familiar faces and allowed himself to relax for a moment. Then...

Thump, thump, thump!

“Kh. Not now... that stupid lizard...!!”

Ryuu instinctively clutched his chest, his brow furrowing.

“Lord Ryuu, is something wrong?”

“No, it’s nothing. I’m just a bit hungry.”

◇　◇　◇　

Returning to the Ardren main estate, Ryuu immediately headed to his mother’s room.

However, there was one problem. He hadn't told his mother the purpose of this trip—that he was going to the capital to buy an Elixir.

If she found out, she might scold him, saying, 'Why would you spend the precious family fortune on an Elixir for someone like me?!' Or worse, she might say, 'I’m definitely not drinking it!! Return it and get the money back!!'

Ryuu’s stubbornness likely came from her.

Ryuu walked down the hallway with Sebas.

“Now then, how shall we explain this?”

“How about this: I happened to meet the Empress and told her about Mother, and Her Majesty felt sorry for her and introduced a great pharmacist who made a special medicine for a low price?”

“'The Empress'... Master, your jests are a bit much.”

“It’s true. You can ask Stingray later.”

“D-Did you really meet Her Imperial Majesty?”

“Yeah. Apparently, she’s been keeping an eye on me since the war, and she approached me at a restaurant. I also met the First Princess and the Imperial Mage, Zekkai.”

“Not just the Empress, but the First Princess and an Imperial Mage too...” Sebas held his head in his hands, overwhelmed by the news.

“If we tell her that story, Lady Airisu might be so distracted by the big names that she’ll drink the Elixir without any fuss.”

“And since Estelle really is connected to the Empress, everything but the 'low price' part is technically true.”

“Perfect. Let’s go with that.”

They entered his mother’s bedroom. His younger sister, Rena, was there as well.

“Oh, Ryuu. Welcome back. You must be tired after such a long journey.”

“Ryuu-niisama!! Welcome home!!” Rena lunged at Ryuu, hugging him tight.

Ryuu patted her head. “I’m home. I’m glad to see you and Mother are doing well.”

He immediately began telling them about his time in the capital.

A few minutes later...

“W-Wait a minute. The Empress, the First Princess, an Imperial Mage... and a world-class pharmacist with a special medicine? That’s a bit too much information.”

“Empress, Princess, Mage, Pharmacist, Empress, Princess, Mage, Pharmacist...”

Both his mother and Rena were reeling from the information overload.

Perfect. Now’s our chance.

“But you have to drink it quickly, or the medicine might lose its effectiveness. We can't let a medicine made through the Empress’s introduction go to waste, right? I have to write a letter to Estelle the pharmacist later, too.”

Ryuu practically forced the Elixir into her hands.

“I... I just have to drink all of this?”

“The pharmacist said to drink every last drop.”

“I... I understand.”

The moment finally arrived.

“…………”

His mother gulped down the Elixir.

Ryuu, Rena, and Sebas watched her, their hearts in their throats.

Please, let her be cured, Ryuu prayed.

Please!! I want to see Mom healthy again... Rena thought.

May the Gods bless Lady Airisu, Sebas murmured.

Memories flashed through their minds.

She fell ill with an incurable disease, was exiled by her trash husband, and moved to the villa.

When that husband was assassinated and his kind mother was grieving, a war broke out.

At that time, even his mother was visibly anxious. Her son was going to war. It would be impossible to stay calm.

Even after the victory was decided, there were no celebrations.

Her condition only worsened. She tried to reassure everyone with a forced smile.

When she was at her worst, she had even vomited blood. There were days she couldn't even get out of bed.

Yet, to support her family, she gave instructions for the territory’s management from her bed.

She was a mother with the heart of a saint. A strong mother with the soul of a goddess.

And now, she was being healed. Released from her suffering. There was no greater happiness for her or her family.

All three of them prayed for her victory.

And then...

“Oh? The pain throughout my body is gone... and I feel incredibly light... It’s like I’ve become a different person.”

In short...

“You’re fully recovered. Congratulations, Mother.”

“MOMMYYYYY!!”

“Lady Airisu, congratulations on your recovery. And thank you for your long, long fight against your illness... sniff... truly, I...”

Ryuu let out a long sigh of relief, Rena lunged at her still-confused mother, and Sebas wiped his tears with a handkerchief.

His mother looked at the three of them with a gentle smile. “Thank you, Ryuu. And to Rena and Sebas for always supporting me.” Tears trickled down her cheeks.

For a while, the room echoed with cries of joy.

A plan that had been months in the making had finally reached its goal.

For now, things have settled down, Ryuu thought, as the tension left his body.

Later, the four of them took a walk through the estate with his now-healthy mother.

“By the way, Rena-chan was practicing her magic all alone while you were away, Ryuu.”

“I worked really hard!! Please watch me later and see how much I’ve improved!!”

“Of course. I’ll watch you for as many days as you want.”

“Yay!!”

Just then, a woman with silver hair flowing in the breeze approached them from ahead.

“Ah, Lord Ryuu! And Lady Airisu and Rena-sama are here too...!!”

“Oh, Stingray. It’s been a while—well, since a little bit ago.”

“You’re Commander Silva’s daughter, aren't you? You’ve grown into such a fine young lady,” Iris remarked.

“The Commander’s daughter? H-Hmm...” Rena narrowed her eyes. She seems pretty close with my brother!

Rena immediately added Stingray to her "watch list." Actually, there was one more person she should have added, but she had no way of knowing that yet.

Stingray suddenly blurted out, “Ah! If Lady Airisu is doing so well, that means the Elixir worked, right?! Congratulations on your recovery, Lady Airisu!!”

Ryuu and Sebas both froze.

““Ah.””

“E... Elixir...?”

His mother turned her head toward Ryuu like a malfunctioning robot. Then, she crushed the metal cane she always carried with her bare hands.

I forgot to mention, but Airisu Ardren was a member of the extreme martial faction, known for making even crying children go silent.

"Star Crusher"—that was the epithet given to her in her youth.

With a painted-on smile, she grabbed Ryuu by the collar.

“Let’s have a little chat in that room over there, shall we? Ryuu-kun.”

“Mother, wait, it’s not what you think. This was all Baron Manntester’s plot...”

“I-I think I’ll go practice my magic now!” Rena squeaked.

“I-I also have some work I left unfinished...” Sebas stammered.

The two of them scurried away from the scene.