NOVEL NEXT Rafinha’s expression, tinged with a mix of understanding and a hint of resignation, spoke volumes as she sighed. “Hmm… that’s not quite what I meant, but I guess from your perspective, Glis, it makes sense. I shouldn’t have asked…”
Prince Wayne then resumed, his voice embodying a blend of urgency and commitment. “We’re fortunate that Alucard, our neighbor to the north, understands and supports our cause. Time is critical. The Order of Arcane Wardens will soon embark on a mission to Alucard, to conduct patrols and establish a proven track record. Our goal is to demonstrate the Order’s effectiveness and gain wider acceptance among various nations.”
In reality, Alucard’s agreement stemmed more from obligation than willingness, especially considering their recent attempt to invade Charalia. Accepting the presence of the Arcane Wardens was less of a choice and more of a necessity for them.
Prince Wayne’s vision of the Order operating across borders was ambitious, but it also demanded a solid foundation of trust and tangible success. Without a clear demonstration of the Order’s benefits, convincing other nations to embrace this initiative would be challenging.
Alucard’s cooperation, therefore, was pivotal, offering a real-world example of the Order’s effectiveness. This partnership was crucial in establishing the credibility needed for the Order’s concept to evolve beyond the planning stage. Alucard’s unique situation had inadvertently become a cornerstone in validating the Order’s potential for international cooperation.
This made Inglis ponder. Had Prince Wayne and Special Envoy Theodore been waiting for such an opportune moment to launch this concept? The timing seemed almost too perfect.
Prince Wayne addressed the assembly, emphasizing the importance of their role. “We can’t significantly reduce our Holy Knights or Imperial Guard forces. We need to maintain our nation’s defense and gain our people’s understanding. That’s why I’m entrusting the Arcane Wardens’ banner to you, the students. You will be the foundation of an order that will grow to include individuals from all over the world. Many of you have already proven yourselves in recent events and battles. You are the core of the Arcane Wardens, and I hope you’ll join us in this endeavor… I’m counting on you.”
The students, including Rafinha, Leone, and Liselotte, responded with enthusiasm to Prince Wayne’s earnest request. His profound bow was met with spontaneous applause, a testament to the respect and admiration they held for his vision.
Rafinha, glancing between Prince Wayne and Special Envoy Theodore, clapped enthusiastically. “Prince Wayne and Special Envoy Theodore are truly visionary. They’ve thought deeply about creating something beneficial for so many.”
Leone and Liselotte shared her sentiment, their eyes sparkling with excitement. “Yes, we’re ready to help in any way we can,” Leone affirmed. Liselotte added, “Protecting people worldwide… it’s a step toward an ideal world.”
Even Principal Miliera, present on the platform, couldn’t contain her enthusiasm. “We’re essentially transforming our special lessons into activities for the Order of Arcane Wardens. Let’s put our all into protecting the world, everyone! Woo-hoo!”
““““WOO-HOO~!”””””
The auditorium was alive with excitement and cheer. Rafinha, Leone, Liselotte, and of course, Inglis, were among the students, their faces bright with smiles. Inglis, in particular, raised her fist in anticipation, a playful grin on her face.
“Fufufufu…this is going to be fun. Fufufu…” Inglis mused, clearly thrilled at the prospect of facing Prismas globally.
Rafinha chuckled, half-amused, half-concerned. “Your idea of fun is wrong, Glis!”
Leone interjected with a softer tone, “W-, well, let’s just leave her be. After all, we need someone to defeat Prisma…”
Liselotte nodded in agreement, “I-, indeed… Miss Inglis and Professor Arles are indispensable. It’s wonderful that she’s so motivated.”
They discussed the roles of Eris and Ripple, members of the Holy Knights Order, who might not regularly join the Arcane Wardens’ activities. However, as a professor at the Knight Academy, Arles had the flexibility to participate. The employment of Arles and Rochefort at the Knight Academy was likely a strategic move, not merely a reward for Inglis’ heroics in protecting the king.
The group pondered the implications of assigning Rochefort and Arles to the Holy Knight or Imperial Guard Orders, which might provoke Venefique and complicate their potential future encounters with Venefique soldiers. Instead, their involvement in the Order of Arcane Wardens, focused solely on combating Magic Stone Beasts and serving globally, could benefit nations like Venefique and demonstrate the Order’s inclusive ethos.
In terms of military prowess, while Inglis had played a key role in defeating the Prisma, it was a collective effort, bolstered by the power of the Hyrule Menaces. Arles’ presence was now deemed indispensable, considering future encounters with Prismas.
This strategic positioning of personnel was not just about martial strength; it symbolized the very essence of the Order of Arcane Wardens and its mission.
Inglis shared her insights. “From what Liselotte mentioned, neither His Majesty nor Prince Wayne seem eager for conflict with Venefique. It appears Prince Wayne is using the Order as a diplomatic tool, to foster cooperation in handling Magic Stone Beasts or establish non-aggression pacts. Perhaps Venefique’s invasions stem from their inability to procure enough offerings for Artifacts due to their barren lands. The Prince might be demonstrating through actions, rather than words, that they don’t need to invade us for resources.”
Leone reflected on this, “So, in a way, we’re key to peace with Venefique.”
Inglis continued, “Exactly. We need to act swiftly. Otherwise, Prime Minister Rigriff’s party might finalize their war preparations first, making it challenging to quell internal calls for war.”
Liselotte nodded, “Your analysis makes sense, Miss Inglis.”
Inglis added another layer to her strategy. “Moreover, if negotiations fail and war with Venefique becomes inevitable, the Order could serve as a sanctuary for Knight Academy students. Politicians could be told that the Order is on a mission, unable to engage in war, while we’d be evacuating to Alucard or elsewhere.”
Leone agreed, “It’s reassuring to know there’s a plan in place. I’m still uneasy about the idea of a war between people of the Midlands, let alone participating in one.”
Rafinha declared with determination, “Then it’s up to us to ensure that war doesn’t break out!”
Leone concurred, “Yes, you’re right, Rafinha.”
Liselotte concluded, “We’ll do everything we can to maintain peace.”
As they nodded in unison, Principal Miliera called out to them, “That’s the end of the assembly~ Inglis, Rafinha, Leone, Liselotte, please come to my office afterward.”
The four exchanged curious glances. It seemed that there were further plans awaiting them, a new chapter in their journey as part of the Order of Arcane Wardens.