I’m The Only Granddaughter Of The Strongest Duke [Novel] Chapter 53

chapter 53

I recalled Lemartes’ recent visit to the Ferdinand estate. Back then, he had
asked Grandfather to find him a ‘swordsmanship instructor.’ He even said he
wanted to take lessons with me.

It looked like the position of the Prince’s instructor was being handed to
Johan, the Hero. Lemartes clearly hated the idea, which is why he had run to the
Ferdinand mansion.

A commoner becoming the Prince's swordsmanship instructor… It was certainly
unprecedented, but in a world where he was the protagonist and the world
revolved around him, I suppose it made sense.

X vibrated, sounding just as baffled as I was.

[Why? That idiot from earlier was decent enough. He’d make a fine teacher.]

“He is not enough.”

Suddenly, Lemartes responded to X’s comment.

I flinched, my eyes widening. Lemartes and I were quite far apart; he was up by
the throne, and I was sitting in a chair below. Yet, he heard X’s mumble? Just
how good was his hearing?

[Of course he can hear me. My voice doesn't travel through the air like human
speech; it resonates with the soul…]

Tch. X explained why Lemartes could hear him in a grumbling tone, sounding
annoyed for some reason. Lemartes ignored X and looked the Emperor straight in
the eye.

“I know that Johan is the most outstanding Hero in the Empire. I am aware his
skills surpass those of the current Imperial instructors. However, if there are
great heroes, there are also great knights…”

His voice was resolute and firm, possessing a gravity that was hard to believe
that it was coming from a ten-year-old boy.

“Father, I do not wish to learn the sword from him, no matter how great a hero
he may be. Therefore, if Duke Ferdinand allows it, I intend to stay at the duchy
for the time being and train in swordsmanship alongside Lady Eve.”

“Lemartes, this isn't something you can just decide on a whim. It’s not like you
can be an heir to the Ferdinand style, and…”

The Emperor, who had been sighing while trying to persuade him, noticed
something odd and turned to Grandfather.

“Wait, Lord Ferdinand, did you know about this beforehand? Why don't you look
surprised that Lemartes wants to learn swordsmanship at your estate?”

Grandfather bowed politely.

“I am not surprised because the Second Prince visited the Ferdinand mansion
previously and expressed his desire to train with my granddaughter.”

“And did you grant him permission?”

“I believe that if it is merely training together, rather than passing on the
secret arts of Ferdinand, it is something our family can certainly do for His
Highness.”

Grandfather’s answer was composed. Lemartes looked our way, his expression
softening as if he were quite pleased with that response.

Well, the mood was good. I smiled at Grandfather, feeling the tension bleed
away. But Grandfather…

I, Eve Royce, went from a country girl to a high noble’s granddaughter overnight
and now I have to take lessons with the Prince… doesn't my opinion matter?

X snorted in reply.

[What is there to wonder about? He probably thinks it’s a 'good experience.' At
your age, efficiency doubles when you have a friend to train with.]

Sure enough, Grandfather’s large, warm hand landed on my head.

“Eve only just started her basic training recently. It would be good for her to
have a friend to train with. Since the Prince and my granddaughter are of a
similar age… I think it wouldn't be a bad idea.”

The Emperor let out a long sigh and leaned back against his throne.

“So I’m the only one who’s just finding out? In that case, was today’s plan to
call the Heroes here just to humiliate them also part of your scheme?”

I answered quickly before Grandfather or Lemartes could be misunderstood.

“Oh, Your Majesty! That wasn't a plan! We really did come to give the Hero
misters a chance!”

It wasn't a lie. The reason I gave the Heroes a shot at Excalibur was to save my
dad, not to embarrass them!

Lemartes also nodded in agreement.

“I only came because I heard Johan coveted a sword that already had a master,
and I thought it would be an entertaining show.”

The Emperor shook his head.
“Fine, I believe you. But we shall finish this conversation later. I am
exhausted. And this place clearly needs some repairs.”

The Emperor pointed to the marble floor, which was now a spiderweb of cracks.

“…”
[…]

“Duke Ferdinand, and… Lady Ferdinand. You both worked hard today. I am deeply
grateful that you fulfilled such an unreasonable request.”

Fortunately, it seemed he wouldn't. While I breathed a sigh of relief, the
Emperor beckoned me closer.

I looked at Grandfather for confirmation, then scurried over to stand before the
Emperor. He placed a large, warm hand on my head.

“As a reward for granting my difficult request, I shall grant you one favor in
return.”

“A favor?”

“Yes, a favor. You may ask for anything.”

I bowed my head, feeling a bit dazed. “Thank you, Your Majesty…!”

“Yes, well done.”

Looking worn, the Emperor nodded once and indicated we were free to leave.

I walked slowly, clutching Grandfather’s hand as we headed toward the carriage.
Now that some time had passed, holding his hand didn't feel awkward at all.

Not long ago, I was trembling with fear that he might kill me. I carefully toyed
with his fingers. His palm was covered in thick callouses, typical for a master
swordsman.

“Are the callouses too rough for you? Is it uncomfortable?”

“No, I like it! I grew up as a blacksmith's daughter, so I know exactly what it
takes to get callouses like these.”

“Is that so? And what does it take?”

“Callouses happen when you put in a whole lot of effort. My dad won't even deal
with knights or heroes whose hands are soft. He says people without callouses
will just let a good sword rot in their bedroom anyway!”

“Neal certainly is firm about that…”

“So, Grandfather’s callouses are a wonderful sign of all the hard work he’s
done…”

Grandfather smiled with satisfaction. It was a very warm, gentle smile.
And just then…

“Eve!”
A voice called out to me from somewhere. I turned my head toward the sound.

“Eve Royce.”

Lemartes was standing there. He must have run to catch up; he was panting
slightly, covering his mouth with his arm.

“Your Highness?”

“Just call me Lemartes. It’s more comfortable,” he grumbled.

He sounded annoyed, just like the day he first met me and threatened to take my
sword.

“Okay, Lemartes. But what brings you here…?”

Grandfather also looked back and forth between us, curious as to why the Prince
had run all this way. Lemartes sheepishly avoided Grandfather’s gaze.

“…It’s nothing much. I just came to say… good job today.”