The Golden-Haired Summoner - Chapter 48

Despite my mention of Koiren to deter him, it seemed Ash had given up and stepped back.

I’m sorry, Ash.

But there’s no way anyone above me would allow me to stay and help you as your guardian.

I’ve become someone my homeland needs desperately—even uncomfortably so.

At every new city, I had to report back home. If I was even slightly late compared to the prearranged schedule, the headmaster’s wrath would descend.

Failing to check in promptly would result in them assuming I’d been kidnapped, and they’d reportedly go as far as to mobilize the military—a threat that felt more like coercion.

“So, uh…”

Ash hesitated, his gaze fixed on the table instead of meeting mine.

I noticed his fists trembling slightly.

Does he still have something to say?

Didn’t he just back off?

“…?”

“By any chance… do you remember the black-haired boy from the slave market 10 years ago… no, nine years ago?”

Of course, I remember. That boy was you.

Wait… Don’t tell me—you knew all along, Ash?

I narrowed my eyes.

Could it be that he recognized me but refrained from saying anything because of his disguise?

For the same reason I never spoke up?

If that’s the case, what a ridiculous situation.

[I don’t remember any of this, Master.]

Rai had come into my life after Ash had collapsed. Naturally, he wouldn’t remember.

But I did.

Every time I looked at Ash’s face, the memory resurfaced.

“I remember. He was my savior.”

“Savior…? Why do you say that? Didn’t you help him instead?”

“If it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t be here today. He took the sword that was meant for me, and because of the injury…”

I trailed off as a realization struck me.

The doctor had said back then that the sword had damaged his nerves, making it nearly impossible to continue swordsmanship that required grip strength.

But Ash now wielded a sword effortlessly, even demonstrating a high level of skill.

How was that possible?

“What’s wrong, Miss Geenie?”

[What’s going on, Master?]

Ash, startled by my reaction, reached out his hand—the same hand that had been injured.

I grabbed it and examined it closely.

Not that I could glean anything just by looking.

“This hand… This hand was pierced by a sword, wasn’t it? How can you still wield a blade?”

“Huh? Oh, well, a cleric performed a healing spell on it…”

“A cleric? A healing spell…”

To reattach nerves would require a miracle, something only a pope-level cleric could perform.

Wait a minute. He *is* the emperor’s son, so summoning the pope wouldn’t be impossible…

I slumped back, feeling a wave of futility.

I had foolishly believed the doctor’s words about it being irreparable, only to find out now that his hand was perfectly fine.

Ash might not be particularly skilled with a sword, but worrying about it now felt laughable.

How presumptuous of me to have been concerned for a prince.

I mean, if a pope can reattach severed legs, it’s not much different from a high-tier spirit performing miracles.

“What’s wrong? Are you feeling unwell?”

“No, I’m just… a bit overwhelmed. I’m fine.”

I shrugged and sat back down.

Ash looked at me with concern before hesitantly continuing.

“About the black-haired boy I mentioned earlier… If he were someone very close to me, would you help me for his sake?”

Just say it’s you, Ash.

I couldn’t help but laugh lightly.

Is Ash so desperate to become the crown prince that he’s bringing up events from nine years ago?

What does he plan to do if he becomes emperor?

“You keep asking for help, but what exactly do you want me to do? Be specific.”

“I want you to travel with me. As my companion, I want you to trust and follow me. I can’t offer you any payment or benefits, but I’d be truly grateful if you joined me. I promise you wouldn’t feel your time with me was wasted.”

“Haha, is that what you said to your other companions—Chad, Gale, and Enk?”

“Yes… something similar.”

What a fool. Who would agree to such a request?

But then again, after spending some time with Ash, I could see why people might follow him.

He’s too kindhearted. That’s why he managed to gather even three companions—though he still needs two more.

“Hah, if it were me, I’d have said something bolder. Like, ‘Follow me, and I’ll take responsibility for your life!’ That might be more persuasive. But to each their own.”

“Would you come along if I said that?”

“Hmm. If you tell me honestly how you know that black-haired boy, I’ll consider it.”

Ash didn’t hesitate long before speaking.

“That boy was me. Would you believe me if I said that?”

His hair color, eye color, and even his face were different.

Who would believe this brown-haired young man was the same as the black-haired boy from back then?

Still…

“I believe you. Because your eyes are the same.”

“Then will you come with me? Will you take this ticket?”

[Wait, Master, does this mean we’re going? I’m not done exploring!]

This isn’t about sightseeing, Rai!

If I were to go with Ash, it would complicate things.

I’d need permission from the king, and I’d have to contact my mentor, Yael, again.

The biggest hurdle was whether the king would even allow it.

Though our kingdom was allied with Elan, the relationship wasn’t exactly warm.

They were already urging me to return as soon as possible—if I delayed further, there’s no telling what punishment might await me.

But wait.

If I helped Ash become the crown prince, and eventually emperor…

Hoho, this might be worth it.

No, it’s more than worth it!

“I’m sorry, but I can’t promise anything yet. As I said, I have obligations to my lord. But if I can get permission, I might be able to help you—just for a while.”

[Master’s “might” always confuses me. Humph.]

My mood brightened.

The only thing holding me back had been the assumption that I wouldn’t get permission to help Ash.

But if I could make him emperor, that would be beneficial for everyone—my kingdom, Ash, and, of course, me.

Annie might grumble, but Yael would support me!

Yes, I’ll make Ash emperor!

“Really? Then can I hope for the best?”

“Just a little. Hehe.”

Yes!

With a dragon and an emperor in my future, this is turning into quite the rare lineup of friends.

Now all that’s left is to befriend a god.

—

The next morning, I headed to the Mage Tower in Femmington as soon as the sun rose.

This is why I love cities—Mage Towers are everywhere!

Once at the tower, contacting the headmaster was as easy as pie.

[Well, well. You’re always late, but here you are, reaching out early for once. What’s the occasion?]

“I have something important to discuss with you, Headmaster.”

[Something important? Hmm. Before that, I have a message for you from Yael. The child you sent is so exceptional that he can’t take his eyes off them. He says he’s had no time to train himself and spent quite a while venting his frustrations.]

Haha. Typical Yael.

That kid’s exceptional, but also notoriously disobedient. Yael must be having a tough time.

Looks like I’ll have to bring him plenty of sweets to apologize later.

“More importantly, Headmaster, I really do have something urgent to discuss. If there’s anyone else around, could you ask them to leave? This is a confidential matter.”

[I’m alone. Why? Don’t tell me foreign agents have already contacted you?]

“Not at all. I always wear a hood, and with my short hair, no one suspects me of being a noblewoman. Besides, the rumors of my survival haven’t spread widely yet.”

Most noblewomen preferred long hair, so my appearance didn’t draw suspicion.

Long hair was seen as a symbol of wealth since it was difficult to maintain. Noblewomen were expected to have long, lustrous hair as a hallmark of their status.

When I first contacted the headmaster after cutting my hair, he nearly fainted from the shock, his blood pressure spiking. That said it all.

[So, what’s this all about?]

“Headmaster, this could be an incredible opportunity!”

[Opportunity? What sort of opportunity has you stalling like this? Out with it already.]

Dramatic timing was everything. I couldn’t just blurt out, *“I ran into a prince; I’m going to tag along with him for a while.”* That would never work.

Framing it as a compelling coincidence and emphasizing its significance were key.

“Headmaster, you’re familiar with the ‘Trial of the Path,’ right? Elan’s method of selecting the crown prince?”

[Of course. But what of it?]

“One of the people I’m traveling with right now seems to be a prince participating in the trial. No—I’m certain of it!”

[What?! How can you be sure? The princes are supposed to hide their identities during the trial.]

No matter how well they hide, nobody can escape the sharp eyes of Geenie Crowell.

I grinned as I replied, “I overheard him speaking in secret with one of his attendants. It seems he’s struggling to find a suitable guardian.”

[You never cease to surprise me. So, what are you suggesting? Should we send a spy to monitor him?]

“Rather than using a spy, I thought I could volunteer to be his guardian. Wouldn’t a water elementalist of my caliber make an excellent candidate?”

[That’s a fine idea, but is it really necessary for you to take on this role? If we can identify which prince he is, we could easily send someone else qualified.]

Ugh, this old man was always throwing up roadblocks.

Still, judging by his reaction, I just needed to sweet-talk him a little more.

“No, this requires great care. I’ve already established a small rapport with him. And think about it! If I genuinely form a bond with this crown prince—or future emperor—it would be far more valuable than sending a mere spy.”

[True, but many people are waiting for you back home, and this is a critical time for you to protect yourself. If your identity were revealed abroad…]

“It seems the trial only has about four months left. It’s a short time, and gaining favor with a prince of Elan’s great empire would be worth it!”

[Hmm, I can’t approve this on my own. First, we need to confirm whether this prince is the first or second prince.]

How should I answer that?

Claiming ignorance might delay things. But if I admitted it was the second prince, what if the headmaster disapproved?

Who did our nation support again?

I quickly reviewed what I knew about the first and second princes.

– **First Prince Aaron de Von Glorisrenne**, known as Prince Rene.
– Son of the empress, with strong backing from her family, the influential Veilan faction.
– Ruthless strategist supported by the central nobility.
– **Second Prince Aaron de Von Epiros**, known as Prince Ross.
– Cherished by the emperor, though nearly barred from princely status due to his mother’s lowly origins.
– Admired by the people for his exemplary swordsmanship and benevolent nature.

It was obvious.

The first prince, tied to Veilan, our historic enemy, was out of the question.

“He’s the second prince. Currently, he lacks strong foreign allies. If we support him, he won’t forget our kindness. And I’m confident I can help him secure the position of crown prince, Headmaster.”

[Hmm, where does all this confidence come from? Guardian trials are notoriously fierce. Even as an intermediate elementalist, you could be gravely injured—or worse, killed. Assassinations of opposing guardians are often condoned during the trial. It’s already dangerous enough for you as it is… I’m uneasy about this.]

The saying about growing more cautious with age must be true.

The headmaster used to be much more straightforward. Or perhaps my elevated status was causing him undue worry.

“Don’t worry, Headmaster. I have… a special trump card gifted by a dragon.”

[A dragon?! What kind of trump card?]

“You’re aware of the snake I keep, right? It accompanied me when I was captured by the dragon. The dragon granted it incredible powers—impenetrable scales, enhanced intelligence, and even the ability to transform into a wolf!”

That was a slight exaggeration to get his approval.

The scales were naturally tough, and Rai had always been clever. As for the transformation, it was real, but it didn’t hurt to embellish it as a “dragon’s gift.” Who would dare question the credibility of a dragon’s blessing?

[Incredible… That sounds like a magical creature. Perhaps akin to the ancient chimera.]

“Exactly! It’s like having an unbeatable guardian by my side. The dragon swore me to secrecy, but I’m telling you because I trust you, Headmaster.”

I was becoming a master storyteller.

I’d already told the king about a “forbidden spirit art” that supposedly shortens the user’s lifespan, and now this.

It felt a bit like telling your parents you need money for books when you’re really spending it on snacks.

As long as no one finds out, it’s not technically a lie, right?

[Where is this creature now? Show it to me!]

“It’s currently transformed into a wolf and waiting outside the communication room. Animals aren’t allowed in here. But if you secure permission from the king, I’ll arrange to secretly show it to you.”

[Very well! I’ll inform His Majesty immediately. Contact me again tomorrow at noon. I’ll do my best to secure approval.]

The headmaster was still a scholar at heart.

He couldn’t hide his excitement at the mention of a mysterious creature, and I silently cheered.

Nice!

—

The fastest way to make time fly? Go to sleep.

[Master, Master! Wake up, it’s lunchtime.]

Something smooth and metallic brushed against my cheek repeatedly. It had to be Rai’s tongue.

Hey, tongues are supposed to be rough. What do you expect from a snake made of metal?

“Ugh…”

[Wake up, Master! Rise and shine~!]

“Rrrgh! How dare you?”

[Hsssk!]

I shot up and grabbed Rai’s whiskers, yanking them.

“You dare tell your master to wake up? Huh? Add ‘please’ next time, you hear me? You skipped two crucial words!”

[Ahhh! My whiskers, my whiskers…]

“Keep it up, and I’ll pluck them to trade for candy! Got it?”

[Hiss… You always woke the others up like this, Master…]

That was true. Since I meditated early in the morning, I was always the first awake and took it upon myself to rouse the others during camping trips.

Except Chad. Someone else could deal with him.

“Not you, though. When waking me, you show respect.”

[Fine, fine. But you said to wake you at noon, and it’s already past that.]

Realizing the sun was high in the sky, I hurriedly prepared to head out.

—

When I came downstairs with Rai in snake form draped over my shoulders, Ash and the others were already eating.

Ash was the first to notice me and approached.

“Miss Geenie, are you just waking up?”

“Yes, I slept well. All that camping left me exhausted.”

“Do you think… the outcome will be decided this time?”

“Hmm… maybe.”

Ash looked more anxious than I’d ever seen him, and the others seemed equally on edge—except for Chad, who wore his usual grumpy scowl.

Oh, Chad. Could you be more obvious about your displeasure?

“I apologize for asking so much of you and thank you for trusting me. I also owe you an apology for pretending not to recognize you all this time.”

“Well, I’ll accept your apology. Make sure to keep being grateful, though.”

“Wait, Miss Geenie! Ash! What are you two talking about?”

As I approached, Lox, who had been silently following the conversation, interjected at a part he clearly didn’t know about.

Come to think of it, he wouldn’t be aware of what happened the night before, since Ash had come to me late, likely avoiding Lox.

Lox wasn’t just a companion—he also doubled as a watchman, keeping an eye on Ash.

The relationship between me and Ash was getting more complex.

Ash seemed to think I only recognized him as “that boy from back then” and didn’t realize he was a prince.

He also appeared oblivious to the fact that I was *the* Geenie Crowell, the talk of the continent.

Still, he seemed satisfied that I believed the brown-haired young man before me was the same as the black-haired boy from all those years ago, despite the differences in appearance.

“It’s nothing important,” I said lightly. “Anyway, I’m off to make another call. Wish me luck!”

“Geenie! I really hope we can travel together. I’ll be praying with all my might for this to work!” Gale cheered with sparkling eyes, clearly eager for my company.

“Not me…” Chad muttered under his breath, clearly less thrilled at the prospect.

Well, *now* I’m definitely going out of spite!

I waved my hand and stepped out of the inn.

—

As I made my way to the Mage Tower, I noticed Ash quietly following me.

“Why? Do you have more to say?”

“There’s something I’d like to tell you,” he replied hesitantly.

“What is it?”

It couldn’t be about him being a prince—that was a top-level secret.

I openly showed my curiosity, waiting for him to speak.

Ash’s face turned slightly red.

“Can you just… hear me out?”

“…Sure.”

“It’s embarrassing, but… the first friend I ever remember having is you. I’m sorry for presuming that, but when I was a child, I had no friends. You were the first person my age I ever met. It’s strange I didn’t recognize you immediately, as you’ve stayed in my memories all this time.

Even now, I’m asking for your help, but next time, I want to be the one to help you. Whether or not you choose to help me, I hope we can someday share the truth with each other and be real friends. No… please, be my friend.”

“…Pfft!”

I burst out laughing.

For such a serious tone, all this build-up led to a confession of… friendship?

Not love, but friendship?

I suppose it made sense.

Our brief but impactful encounter left a mark on us both.

I’d known Ash was a prince since then, but he wouldn’t have known anything about me after being confined in the “Silent Palace” as soon as he returned to the imperial palace.

The fact he even remembered my face and recognized me was impressive enough.

As much as I was annoyed he hadn’t acknowledged me earlier, I’d let it slide.

“I’m sorry,” Ash stammered, clearly flustered. “I didn’t know how else to say it…”

“You don’t need to apologize. Because I’ve always thought of you as a friend, Ash. Otherwise, I’d already be on my way home instead of sticking around to help. Don’t you think?”

“A… friend? Even now?”

“Of course. Since that day. We’re each other’s benefactors, aren’t we?”

Just wait a little longer, Ash. I’ll make you emperor.

When I return a favor, I do it big. *Heheh.*

—

The headmaster’s voice echoed through the communication orb.

[The king truly has great faith in you.]

“What’s that supposed to mean, Headmaster?”

[I was concerned that becoming a ‘guardian’ might sway your allegiance toward Elan. But the king scolded me for my worries. It seems he trusts you implicitly.]

Well, of course, I’m trustworthy.

Aside from that, I’d planted plenty of goodwill with the king.

I sent Annie the sword gifted by Magi, and I even saved the king’s life.

It’s no wonder he trusts me.

Wait, does that mean…

“So…”

[The king has given his permission. His orders are to support the second prince wholeheartedly.]

“Yay! Woohoo! Headmaster, mwah!”

[Ack! Stop that! You’re going to break the communication orb!]

He cares more about the orb than me? Fine, be that way.

“You’re so mean!”

[You’re the one who’s being unreasonable. Honestly, at your age, you ought to be preparing for marriage instead of acting so childish. Tsk, tsk.]

“Excuse me!”

I barely refrained from shouting in the confined communication room.

One day, I swear, I’ll show him!

—

After preparing myself and tidying up my appearance, I hurried back to the inn.

—

The sight of Ash and the others waiting outside greeted me as I approached. Even Chad was there, looking as sulky as ever.

“ASH!”

“GEENIE!”

As soon as he saw me, Ash’s face lit up, mirroring my own beaming smile.

With only ten steps left between us, I couldn’t contain myself and shouted.

“It’s done! We’re going together!”

“It’s done!”

“Congrats! I mean, that’s great, Ash!”

“We’re really comrades now, huh?”

“Hmph!”

Gale cheered, Lox congratulated Ash warmly, Enk smiled, and even Chad let out an exaggerated sigh of resignation.

Ah, these endearing fools.

I’ll make sure to treasure and torment them equally. *Heheh.*

When I finally reached them, their playful jabs flew my way, and I happily returned the banter.

Then, turning to Ash, who still looked stunned, I addressed him directly.