Chapter 10

Jeanne fixed her icy gaze on Carmilla, staring intensely as she carefully observed every subtle nuance of expression on her face, searching for any sign of perception that might escape a casual glance. With a subtle, almost imperceptible smile curving her lips, she broke the silence that hung in the air and let her voice escape, calm and confident, brimming with assurance.

"Carmilla, you may have noticed the arrival of my new servants summoned to assist me in this battle, haven't you? Allow me, then, to introduce them to you. The first is Lancelot, the renowned Knight of the Lake, whose sword skills are unmatched and whose courage is indomitable. The second is Charles-Henri Sanson, the Executioner, a master in the art of execution, whose efficiency in eliminating adversaries is legendary."

Carmilla, initially confused by the unexpected revelation, struggled to process the information quickly. Her eyes shifted to Lancelot and Charles-Henri Sanson, and she observed them with curiosity and interest. Though surprised by the arrival of these new allies, Carmilla is aware of Jeanne's strategic prowess and knows that she would make careful decisions to strengthen their position.

"Jeanne, these choices are truly unexpected," Carmilla replied, her voice filled with caution but also implicit trust. "However, I trust in your wisdom and discernment. If you believe they can contribute to our victory, then I am willing to accept them as our allies."

Jeanne's smile widened upon hearing Carmilla's response. She appreciates her companion's unwavering loyalty and trust, knowing that her decision was accepted without hesitation. The presence of Lancelot and Charles-Henri Sanson by her side further strengthens her conviction of superiority, and she feels confidence coursing through her veins, increasing her chances of triumphing over any challenge that presents itself.

"It is reassuring to know that you place your trust in my choices, Carmilla," Jeanne replied, her voice taking on an imposing tone that echoed in the room. "Lancelot and Charles-Henri Sanson are formidable warriors, and together we will form an unparalleled alliance. No obstacle will be able to halt our march towards victory."

Jeanne's eyes gleam with relentless determination, reflecting her clear vision of the upcoming conflict. She envisions herself leading her new servants towards glory, visualizing each step of the battle with meticulous precision. Her determination to assert her supremacy over all those who dare challenge her is unwavering, and nothing will deter her in her quest for dominance and the strengthening of her position as the Witch of Dragons.

"Master," proclaimed Carmilla with a burning flame in her gaze, filled with determination and an insatiable thirst for blood, "allow me to challenge that servant once more. This time, I will defeat him, I swear!" Her voice resonated with renewed confidence, enveloping her in a dark and intimidating aura.

Jeanne, locking eyes with her, responded ruthlessly, "Very well, but if you perish, do not expect my compassion. I have no tolerance for incompetent servants." Her words cut through the air with a penetrating chill, making it clear that the demand for excellence was unyielding.

With a nod, Jeanne reluctantly granted permission for Carmilla to embark on her quest for revenge. Although Jeanne also desired to face the formidable servant, she decided to give Carmilla a chance, albeit with reservations.

"Lancelot, accompany her." Jeanne sentenced Lancelot with a firm voice, pointing towards Carmilla.

"Urrrrrr." Lancelot let out a deep growl, his eyes filled with determination as he took heavy steps towards Carmilla, positioning himself by her side.

"Thank you, my master," Carmilla expressed her gratitude to Jeanne, her facial features blending into a mix of respect and devotion. Then, with an imposing posture, she turned decisively to leave the hall.

"Win or die!" Jeanne's words echoed through the room with an uncompromising tone, revealing the firmness of her conviction.

"As you wish," Carmilla retorted, her voice filled with an almost icy detachment. She knew that death would not be an unfamiliar end, as she was already immersed in the shadows of her own existence.

Gillies let out a sigh of relief as he realized that Jeanne had not ventured to confront the fearsome servant. His heart overflowed with gratitude towards Carmilla, whom he mentally thanked for preventing his beloved from putting herself in danger. After all, Gillies recognized the danger represented by that servant, and the idea of Jeanne risking herself against him filled him with concern. Carmilla's presence brought a sense of protection and relief, and Gillies was sincerely grateful for her timely intervention. Now, he could continue to keep Jeanne safe and away from the dangers that fate held.

"Why did you sigh? Are you unwell?" Jeanne asked, playfully teasing. She knew better than anyone that a servant cannot fall ill, at least not by natural means.

"No, my dear Jeanne, I was just thinking about how great it is to have a servant like Lancelot by our side," Gillies said to her.

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Meanwhile, at a camp...

"...that's exactly what happened..." a citizen addressed a woman who appeared younger than she actually was.

"Thank you. Have a great day," Maria spoke with a smile on her face. As she turned to leave, she heard the timid voice of the citizen.

"Sorry, but... could you tell me your name?" The citizen asked, visibly shy.

"My name is Maria Antonieta. Remember it well, heheheh. It might become important in the future." Maria said, laughing and walking away from the citizen.

"Everyone! I have important information!" Maria reached where Mash and Fujimaru were, accompanied by the others. She began explaining everything she had learned.

"Sorry, Marie. If I go to the city, it will cause panic..." Jeanne spoke sadly, aware that her presence would make people run away in fear.

"Don't worry, we'll find a solution." Maria reassured Jeanne.

"Now, I have fantastic news. The city mentioned by Santa Marta is Lyon." Maria continued, expressing every detail she had discovered.

"To sum it up, Lyon was recently devastated, and the survivors found refuge here."

"The word 'used to' caught my attention... So, it's exactly as I suspected?" Jeanne asked, with a dark foreboding.

"Yes, unfortunately. The city is infested with monsters that seem to have emerged from the depths of hell." Maria spoke with sorrow, thinking of the citizens who managed to escape that nightmare.

Marie Antoinette continued, "But what happened before that is the most important. They say Lyon had a protector."

"A protector?" Mash asked curiously.

"A knight with an immense sword, who defeated wyverns and skeletons." Maria spoke, letting her imagination run wild as she thought about who that knight could be.

"I see. Maybe it's the Servant mentioned by Martha earlier." Jeanne concluded, her face expressing a mix of hope and apprehension.

"Yes. But not long ago, some scary people arrived," Maria said.

"Probably enemies. He was impressed by their numbers and is now missing."

"And so Lyon was destroyed..."

"I hope you're alive... No, let's believe in the words of Saint Martha," Mash said with hope in her face.

"Ah, right. Carlos VII visited the village before he died, and General Gilles de Rais commanded the defeated soldiers, they said," Maria said, almost forgetting.

"Gilles!" Jeanne exclaimed happily.

"He's trying to attack Lyon and retake the city," Maria said.

"I'm sure it would be... difficult to find him," Mash expressed what she was thinking.

"Why is that? Gilles de Rais is an admirer of Jeanne, right?" Maria spoke confusedly.

"If Jeanne asks, he will certainly lend a helping hand?"

"...That is precisely the reason. He knows that I have become the Dragon Witch," Jeanne said, saddened.

"...That is precisely the reason. He knows that I have become the Dragon Witch," Jeanne said, saddened.

Everyone was confused by Jeanne's statement. Maria, however, kept a smile on her face and reassured everyone.

"Don't worry, that won't be a problem. Gilles de Rais was burned at the stake a few days ago," Maria said casually, as if sharing trivial information.

The news caught Jeanne by surprise, and she looked at Maria with wide eyes.

"What? Gilles... dead?" Jeanne could barely articulate the words, her voice filled with disbelief and sadness.

Maria noticed Jeanne's distress and quickly tried to calm her down. "Jeanne, there is something good about this situation. The Gilles who is helping us is a Servant, a summoned hero to fight in this war. He is the Gilles before he committed all those terrible things. I believe he might be willing to help."

Mash, hopeful, interjected, "It's true, Jeanne. If this Gilles is willing to fight alongside us, perhaps he can help us reclaim Lyon."

Maria addressed Jeanne directly, concerned about her emotional state. "Jeanne, are you okay? I understand the news is shocking for you, but we need to stay calm and find a solution together."

Jeanne took a deep breath, trying to recover from the shock. She looked at Maria and said with determination, "I... I'm fine. If there's a chance for Gilles to help us, then we need to find him. Lyon cannot remain in the hands of those who destroyed it."

Maria nodded, encouraging Jeanne, "That's right, Jeanne. Let's move forward and find a way to bring Gilles to our side. Together, we can face any challenge."

Fujimaru, alongside Amadeus, observed the conversation between Jeanne and Maria, impressed by the optimistic and confident attitude of the team leader. He couldn't help but comment to Amadeus about how Maria was such a hopeful person.

"I'm amazed by Maria's optimism," Fujimaru said. "She always finds a way to see the positive side of the most difficult situations. I wish I had that kind of optimism."

Amadeus smiled and replied, "Indeed, Maria is incredibly optimistic. It's an admirable quality, especially in times of adversity. I believe it's part of what makes her so appealing to many people."

Fujimaru nodded, understanding Amadeus' point. "Yes, it's true. Her confidence and ability to see the potential in every situation are truly captivating. It's like she's a source of inspiration for all of us."

Fujimaru scratched his head, feeling embarrassed for expressing his feelings so openly, especially considering that he had only met Maria a day ago. He turned to Amadeus, admitting his surprise at having these thoughts so quickly.

"Sorry for saying these things, Amadeus. I know I've only known Maria for a short time, but I feel like I understand her so well. It's strange, isn't it?"

Amadeus smiled gently and responded, "Actually, I find that quite admirable, Fujimaru. You are a perceptive person and capable of quickly analyzing others. Even though it has only been a day, it's possible to sense someone's personality and qualities. Your ability to see beyond appearances is a valuable trait."

Fujimaru became even more embarrassed by Amadeus' praise, looking away. He wasn't used to receiving such direct compliments and didn't know how to react.

"Ah, thank you, Amadeus. I'm just trying my best here. I still have a lot to learn and improve."

Amadeus chuckled softly and replied, "We all have much to learn, Fujimaru. The journey of self-discovery is ongoing, and that's what makes us human. I'm sure that with time, you'll feel more comfortable expressing your opinions and feelings."

Fujimaru nodded, feeling reassured by Amadeus' words. He knew he still had much to discover about himself and others, but he was determined to keep learning and growing.

"Thank you, Amadeus. I'll strive to be a better person and better understand those around me. I believe it's crucial for our success in this mission."

Amadeus nodded, appreciating Fujimaru's determination.

"I'm certain you will, Fujimaru. With your empathy and willingness to understand others, I'm confident you'll become an even stronger leader. I'm here to support you whenever you need it."

Fujimaru smiled and thanked Amadeus. Although he still felt embarrassed for expressing his thoughts so quickly, he felt encouraged by the conversation and the positive perspective Amadeus brought.

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