I Came for Peace

The next morning, with soldiers from the Bozdov Family joining the escort, the prince's procession stretched to more than twice its original length along the flat, broad Gifting Avenue.

"Please don't take Count Bozdov's attitude to heart," Deler said as he rode beside Tales.

"He was one of the people who spearheaded the recovery of Bladefang Camp, and he's very unhappy about what happened over the past few days, so he's showing all his displeasure on his face."

Unhappy?

Tales mused silently.

Showing it on his face?

Buddy, you've probably never spent time with Northlanders. When they're unhappy, they usually show it on their swords.

That was the only way he could tease himself about it.

"And please don't take it out on Paul, either," said the Earl of Wing Fortress, turning to glance at the taciturn Paul Bozdov, who was several horse-lengths behind them. "With such a forceful and aggressive father, he has a hard enough life as it is."

Tales smiled and nodded, but sighed inwardly.

Speaking of such a forceful and aggressive father...

Well, he could certainly relate.

"At least," Deler said, turning back to look at the conspicuous Nine-Pointed Star Flag on a horse behind them, which had been rolled up, tightly packed, and stowed away the instant Count Black Lion disappeared, "at least Paul is easier to talk to than his father."

The two fell silent for a while.

But the next moment, Tales suddenly spoke:

"So, what Count Bozdov said about Duke of the Western Desolation being 'like that with everyone'..."

"Is it true?"

It was as though someone had snuffed out a light. The colors between the prince and the count seemed to darken all at once.

Amid the clatter of hooves and shouted commands, Deler remained silent for a long while before