novelraw Chapter 169
Chapter 169
Chapter 169. Fighting Poison with Poison (3)
In truth, Pintel no longer harbors any wishful thinking about the current 'Dawn Society'.
Initially, the reason for joining was merely to expand his 'network'.
Furthermore, it was to reach a slightly higher level as a 'mage'.
In a way, it was a natural progression.
Though demonic energy and mana are different, they possess similar properties.
Perhaps because of this, there were quite a few proficient in 'magic' within the 'Dawn Society', and many also handled demonic energy, giving the organization a certain reputation.
Originally, the 'Dawn Society' wasn't a deviation from the 'orthodox', but a group of those handling demonic energy to research 'dark magic'.
Whether that group had become apostate or shifted its focus didn't matter much to Pintel.
He would gain what he wanted and provide what was needed.
The law of equivalent exchange applies not only in society but also in magic.
― You have been demoted to a Monsignor. Know your place, you trash.
However, when he saw that what he could gain was disappearing and his efforts turning to naught, Pintel began to question himself.
"Is there any reason to remain loyal to the 'Dawn Society' beyond this point?"
Although the irregular existence known as the 'Black Knight' had hindered him, his contributions so far couldn't have vanished.
No, he knew from the start that this was not the case.
In such secret societies, he understood that there is no worth in accumulated merit.
"I have wasted my years."
He had left the 'Magic Tower' to join the Dawn Society.
Abandoning his research meant he was no longer part of any mage-related projects.
Neither the Academy nor the declining House of Obradin provided any refuge.
Pintel was driven to the brink, to the point where taking his own life would leave him with no regrets.
― Lend us your strength, Sir Pintel.
That's when Yulian came to him.
Yulian sought his hand to overthrow Gerard.
Unaware of the plan, Pintel initially rejected his words.
After all, he had no connection with him.
Rather, Yulian's previously shown behavior opposed everything Pintel's life represented.
Yet, Yulian defended himself from 'Gerard's' attack and asked Pintel for his strength.
― I see you've regained your status as Bishop. As we've tacitly joined hands, I hope you won't act crookedly as before.
He even helped him regain his lost status.
The saying "The House of Obradin pledges unwavering loyalty to those who grant them opportunity" originally symbolized their firm loyalty to the imperial family, but Pintel interpreted it differently.
Thus, he had followed Yulian until now.
If it was his decision, no matter how mistaken, he was willing to accept it.
"I will spare Fern because because he is currently pursuing Dantes who has escaped from the exchange hall."
No matter how disconnected, Yulian's thoughts had an element a commoner like Pintel could never fathom.
"Indeed, dealing with him prematurely would only invite increased scrutiny from the imperial family."
"Yes, killing him would be tantamount to confessing to our deeds."
'Indeed...'
It was clear that Yulian had thought this far.
Being part of the 'Imperial Intelligence Agency', Yulian had a broad perspective on internal matters.
'But still...'
Pintel wondered if leaving Fern alone was the right choice.
If something were to happen due to that guy later, it might be too late to respond.
'At the very least, until Sir Yulian has seized control of the Dawn Society...'
He needed Fern to be quiet.
***
News of the events at the exchange hall spread swiftly.
Pintel, who had been the host there, was called to the secretariat and forced to cooperate in the investigation.
Fortunately, none of the other nobles who were poisoned lost their lives.
Annarui's 'Puppet Poison' caused the targets to lose consciousness and allowed them to be controlled, but it did not cause fatal harm to their bodies.
However, there were quite a few who were critically injured by attacks wielded by those controlled nobles.
'That's not my concern.'
It wasn't the result of any wrongdoing on my part.
Therefore, I anticipated that there would be no issues until the unconscious Annarui recovered consciousness.
"Congratulations, Sir Yulian. You might have gained the favor of the 2nd Prince with this."
If not for this matter, that is.
"But is it appropriate to say congratulations here, I wonder..."
Ordwin, skimming through the document from the secretariat, made a detached expression as she looked at the paperwork.
"What is it about?"
"It's because of the incident at the exchange hall the other day. Let me read it to you briefly. Kuheum."
Clearing her throat, Ordwin began to read the official document in her hand.
"Yulian of the Blind Eyes, affiliated with the Imperial Intelligence Agency."
As my name flowed from her lips, I started feeling bewildered.
Why start so grandly just to convey something trivial?
"To commend your contributions to the imperial family and your swift handling of recent atrocities, the secretariat is awarding you the 2nd-rank medal, Royal Elite Sword."
"... Royal Elite Sword Medal?"
"Yes."
To my question, Ordwin nodded.
Royal Elite Sword (禁衛十劍) Medal
It was a 2nd-rank medal in the Adratan Empire, awarded to only ten individuals per century according to the continental calendar.
It doesn't precisely empower the recipient with immense 'authority'.
'Medals, after all, are given for appearances when they don't want to offer significant positions or rewards but still want to show off.'
Yet, to say they hold little meaning would be ambiguous.
It's a 2nd-rank medal after all.
Accompanying it is a tax exemption benefit, specifically for 'art objects' managed by the 'Empire'.
In other words, it would have been a benefit young men like 'Yulian' would drool over in his former days.
'As expected, it's not particularly advantageous for me.'
Aside from that, were there any other benefits? I don't recall, but it's undoubtedly insignificant.
More importantly, now...
"Why is the name of the 2nd Prince mentioned?"
The granting of a 'Royal Elite Sword' medal must be authorized by someone 'high-ranking' within the imperial family.
Of course, this 'high-ranking' individual is derived from the 'royal family', hence not someone like an ordinary 'noble'.
Truly, noble blood.
It means the 'royal family', the sun of the Empire.
"It seems the 2nd Prince, osborne de Adratan, initiated the awarding of the medal."
"Yes."
At my words, Ordwin let out a deep sigh.
"We are doomed..."
Afterward, she gazed at me with a distorted expression.
"To gain merit at such timing..."
Why! What is the problem?
"From this, others may suspect that we support the 2nd Prince."
Ahh... What needless concern this is.
What's so important about maintaining 'neutrality' to worry needlessly like this?
"If it bothers you that much, can't you, as the commander, refuse the medal?"
"Oh, indeed. And then you could execute me for treason against the crown."
"Well, then, I entrust myself to you at that time, lady Ordwin. Haha."
One recently learned fact is that 'Ordwin' usually remained composed, but when 'royalty' was involved, her composure tended to fade.
Of course, most nobles couldn't help but be that way.
The Adratan Empire is practically a state existing for the sake of the royal family.
'Should I consider staging a revolution?'
Honestly, it seems a necessity.
It's too centered on the royal family.
In the game, this wasn't palpably felt, but now that it's reality, it feels like there's a lot more to ponder.
However... When I look with seeing eyes, Ordwin's expression showed no signs of loosening.
How such a sensitive person became the commander of Blind Eyes is beyond me.
"Lady Ordwin, it seems you're pondering too much."
"... Is that so?"
"Yes, it seems so, being engrossed in documents in the office rather than on the field."
Upon saying it, it seemed like I was nudging her to stop lazing around.
Surely, spoken with 'Yulian's' face, it might be interpreted that way more often than not.
Indeed, Ordwin's expression changed precisely to that. Her demeanor clearly asked, 'What are you implying?'
To her puzzled expression, I flashed a bright smile and considered the investiture ceremony.
'Since it's not a private meeting, but an open invite from them, after all.'
As a noble, one cannot refuse the formalities of the royal family. Being of 'Adratan Empire', holding a noble rank means it's inevitable.
... In any case, I must attend.
"When is the investiture ceremony scheduled?"
I gestured asking for the official document with my hand.
"Three days from now, it will be held before the 2nd gate."
Three days later.
It would be good to have ascertained the mastermind behind the 'Six Fingers' by then.
Moreover.
'And to definitely ascertain the whereabouts of that bastard Dantes.'
Prompted by the thought, I decided to visit the underground cell.
If Annarui had come around, it might be quicker to talk to her.
She's directly involved, after all.
Besides, after a few conversations, I should be able to clear up my doubts.
'That aside.'
The 2nd Prince, osborne, awarding Royal Elite Sword medal.
As he's positioned to contest the 'succession to the throne,' I also understand he must flaunt his influence for the public eye.
While said to be a sacrifice for that, receiving the 'medal' isn't entirely a bad thing.
'Incidentally, I've been getting involved with succession claimants.'
Even without Ordwin's saying, I dislike associating with 'succession' affiliates.
All I wish for is to survive safely in this world.
After thwarting the scenario of the 'Demon God's resurrection,' I just want to live quietly.
'From that standpoint, associating with the princes is like planting tumors in my future.'
Indeed, indeed.
'Well then.'
I should go check on Annarui's face. And give some comfort food to Zahard along the way.
***
Lazlot knew.
If asked who could exert the most 'influence' in the imperial family other than the 'royals,' it would be 'Smiling Executioner' Yulian.
As a trainee of 'Blind Eyes', Lazlot, often going back and forth with the secretariat as a spy for the 'Dawn Society', realized that many had been paying attention to 'Yulian's' recent actions.
"Lazlot, I have to step out for a bit. Would you place this official document on my desk?"
"What? Oh, yes!"
"And please water the plants by the window. The watering can has the plants' names labeled, so you can refer to that."
"Understood."
When Lazlot bowed his head politely, Yulian adjusted his coat and left the building.
Watching his retreating figure, Lazlot speculated.
'Surely, the 2nd Prince will attempt to win over Sir Yulian.'
Using the 'Royal Elite Sword medal' as leverage to see if he would join them.
Even if Yulian declined, Osborne wouldn't likely face significant damage.
The 'investiture ceremony' alone can spread rumors that Yulian has been attracted to him.
'However, Sir Yulian will surely deny full-scale support.'
Because he knows it's what raises his value.
'Blind Eyes' must maintain neutrality.
Thus supporting any prince is against Commander Ordwin's stance.
'Conversely, speaking.'
It means there's no problem in supporting any prince.
After all, 'neutrality' means practically having access to every possibility.
In other words, the most flexible one among succession proponents who can choose their 'faction' is none other than...
'Sir Yulian.'
Such a situation would be known by that slit-eyed man too.
Feeling scared, Lazlot thought as he watched Yulian's receding back.
Wherever he went, incidents and accidents were never absent.