Chapter 891

Ian already knew Declan couldn’t deny it. Doing so would be no different from repudiating everything he had said and done up to this point.

That was likely why a new light flickered in Declan's eyes as he said, "Of course, O Demigod!"

He had clearly realized at once that Ian was pursuing practical gains in much the same way he did. But by now, there was no turning back.

Placing one hand over his chest, Declan said as though every word came from the heart, "Ever since the day you saved this land from the monsters of that old stag, I have always believed that to be true."

And to be fair, at the time, his title and future had been riding on Ian's success.

"I'm glad to hear you say that without a moment's hesitation."

It was enough to make Ian's smile deepen further.

No matter how ambitious Declan had once been about turning his back on the Empire and the Great Church, people's minds could always change, especially now, when his kingdom had prospered so greatly.

But now, he would never be able to betray him.

Declan smiled back and dipped his head slightly. "The honor is mine. I am merely grateful that you spoke those words first. And besides, I doubt I am the only one who shares a destiny with the Demigod."

A faint twitch passed through Ian’s eyes as Declan turned his gaze to the side.

Looking over the residents kneeling shoulder to shoulder, filling not only the main street but even the distant alleys, he continued. "After all, it is all thanks to the blessings of the exalted heavens and the Demigod that this kingdom has remained strong and prosperous."

"I see," murmured Ian.

Once again, he found himself impressed by Declan's quick wit.

By broadening the justification, he was easing the political burden that came with Ian's presence.

As the surroundings grew even quieter, Declan's gaze returned to Ian. "Therefore, until the day you ascend, following the Demigod shall be the only way for all the people of this land to repay even a fraction of your grace."

"Unfortunately, I have absolutely no intention of ascending," Ian finally replied in a low voice.

Partly because Heaven was undoubtedly listening, and he wanted to state his position plainly once more. Whatever the reason, it was enough to make Declan freeze and swallow hard. The convenient deadline he had subtly established had just vanished.

"The kingdom prospered because of Your Majesty and the blood, sweat, and toil of your people."

Suppressing a chuckle, Ian continued as though nothing had happened, "So long as you help bring an end to the chaos consuming the continent, that alone will be more than enough repayment."

Relief immediately spread across Declan's face.

Naturally so, since Ian had just given him a new deadline, and a much shorter one at that.

"Indeed, how compassionate and noble you are. Then so it shall be, O Demigod," Declan said with a slight bow.

He spread both hands and respectfully gestured toward the people standing behind him. "Then, shall we continue? Please mount your horse once more. I'll guide you personally from your side."

"I can't very well do that after Your Majesty came all this way on foot to greet me." Ian shook his head immediately and met Declan's eyes. "Let's walk back together."

"You truly leave me at a loss for words time and time again... Very well."

Though Ian's real intention was simply to have a more comfortable conversation on the way back, Declan's smile grew even more satisfied.

The sight of them returning together would be far more impressive than Ian simply riding ahead.

Shrugging lightly, Ian added, "Then perhaps we should start by getting the citizens back on their feet. It'll take some time if we're walking all the way back."

"I shall do so," Declan answered at once.

Turning his gaze, he soon spoke in a deep, solemn voice, "Rise, all of you, and praise the lofty heavens and the noble Demigod."

"O lofty heavens and noble Golden Demigod, may you endure forever!"

"Forever!"

The first to spring to their feet and shout were the retainers kneeling behind Declan. As though that were a signal, the residents lining the avenue began rising as well.

"May eternal light shine upon us!"

"O lofty heavens, bless the Golden Demigod and our king!"

Cheers and cries erupted from every direction. The wave of people rising to their feet spread rapidly through the city, accompanied by a swelling roar of celebration.

Clicking his tongue unconsciously, Ian glanced behind him.

Miguel, already holding Nila's reins, and Charlotte, standing on the opposite side, both gave slight nods. Their eyes suggested they were barely containing their overwhelming emotions.

The fairies and beastfolk standing behind them looked much the same. Only Diana appeared thoroughly unimpressed, frowning behind her mask as though the noise were nothing but an annoyance.

Just as Ian was suppressing a chuckle, Declan quietly said, "Then allow me to escort you, Demigod."

Having issued orders as well, the retainers had already withdrawn to the sides of the road. They looked as though they were positioning themselves against any unforeseen incident.

"This isn't quite what I had in mind," Ian said as he leisurely started walking.

Declan laughed cheerfully. "Wouldn't expressing their joy like this help the crowd disperse more quickly? Besides, a little noise is far better for conversation than complete silence."

"You were already good at this. Somehow you've become even better." Ian laughed. Once again, Declan had seen through his intentions almost immediately.

Declan tilted his head proudly. "I believe those are words I should be saying to you, Demigod."

"And yet it seems you weren't listening when I said I have no intention of ascending."

"Can I be blamed? You were born for such a great destiny. Still... if that is truly your wish, then I shall respect it, Your Grace. And though it comes late..."

Without breaking stride, Declan bent his knees slightly in a gesture of respect.

"Allow me to offer my sincere congratulations on becoming the ruler of the North."

"Let's leave the congratulations at that," Ian answered flatly as he shifted his gaze elsewhere.

Ahead, the inner fortress gradually drew nearer. The retainers maintained their distance, walking along both sides as though serving as an honor guard.

"Our king, may he reign forever!"

"Victory and glory to the noble Demigod!"

The cheers continued to echo through the city.

Ian slowly swept his gaze over the cheering citizens, the companions following behind, and the countless raised arms filling the streets.

Declan, who had likewise glanced behind him, casually said, "A legion of beastfolk and fairies... You never fail to surprise me in new ways, Your Grace."

His eyes swept over the group with obvious interest.

"You vanished after being summoned by the great Platinum Dragon, and now you've returned, leading an army of other races. Was that why you traveled by sea? To avoid attracting attention?"

Ian shrugged. "Well, not exactly."

There was no need to explain that he had sealed away the ancient god of the Black Sea.

Apparently satisfied with that answer alone, Declan nodded. "Then would it be acceptable to escort Your Grace and your close companions to the castle while housing the accompanying legion at a separate estate?"

Turning naturally toward Ian, he continued, "The royal guard originally used the estate, but we've always kept it vacant in anticipation of Your Grace’s visits."

"Well, very well. To think you've been preparing for that when you didn't even know when I'd come."

Even as he nodded, Ian curled one corner of his mouth into a smirk.

Declan returned the smile and continued. "Sir Mev gave me some warning. After you provided such precious treasures of gold and silver, how could I possibly fail to keep a single estate available for you?"

"It sounds like you were quite pleased with the things I sent."

As Ian shrugged, Declan waved dismissively toward the citizens. "They were supplies sent by Your Grace. How could I dare speak of liking or disliking them? I was simply grateful."

"Really? It didn't seem you were grateful for some."

Declan, who had been casually waving to the residents, stiffened slightly at Ian's remark.

Ian continued as though it were nothing, "I'm talking about Count Howard Bellan, Sir Osric, and the survivors Sir Mev brought with her. You had them dumped in the slums."

"Now that you mention it, I can see how that might appear that way," Declan answered a beat later.

Ian's brow twitched slightly as he looked at him. "What do you mean?"

"They arrived in Orendel only recently." Wearing a smile that seemed somewhat forced, Declan spoke quickly and quietly, "They're merely staying there temporarily while recovering their strength and adjusting to life on the frontier."

"So you intended to bring them inside the city once they had settled in."

Declan shook his head. "No. Once all preparations are complete, they will relocate to Agel Lan."

Ian's narrowed eyes twitched again. "Agel Lan?"

"That's right, Your Grace. Count Bellan will be placed in charge of Agel Lan. Furthermore, every one of the settlers will receive proper land, housing, and whatever support they require."

Only then did Ian nod slowly.

Looking back at Declan, he said, "Then I misjudged the situation. You have my apology."

Declan hurriedly waved both hands and bowed his head. "N-No, Your Grace...."

In fact, he looked more flustered now than when Ian had misunderstood him.

Ian chuckled and added, "So you've finally succeeded in reclaiming Agel Lan."

Declan cleared his throat awkwardly. "Not long ago, actually. At the moment, Sir Patton and the knights are still eliminating the remaining monsters and purifying the sources of corruption nearby."

Then he glanced toward the castle walls, drawing steadily nearer. "As a matter of fact, I was planning to depart for Agel Lan in two days to inspect the situation personally. Though now that Your Grace has arrived, I suppose that will have to wait."

Ian looked forward as he said, "Then Sir Mev must be there as well."

The fact that she had not come to greet him already made that much obvious.

Declan hesitated briefly before responding. "No. She departed with the Avenger Knights for the gate fortress on the northeastern border."

It was the quietest his voice had been so far.

Ian's eyes narrowed slightly as he turned to look at him. "Has something happened?"

"I don't believe so. Not yet, at least...." Declan swept a glance over the people around them before continuing, "There are simply too many ears listening right now. For the moment, would you allow me to escort you inside? We can discuss everything in detail while preparations for the banquet are underway."

Ian narrowed his eyes and looked ahead.

The cheers and thunderous applause of the crowd continued to echo around them. By now, the inner castle's walls and its wide-open entrance were drawing near.

Without realizing it, Ian quickened his pace.