novelraw Chapter 175
Chapter 175
Chapter 175. How to Handle Noble Blood
"Thank you for your cooperation, Sir Eitel."
Much like at the Bright Moon Pavilion, whether it was the alcohol loosening his lips or simply his careless nature, Eitel's interrogation didn't take long.
And fortunately enough.
How did they know I hate violence?
With just a sweet smile and a few pressing words, he started to spill everything so easily.
It was almost unbelievable how loose-lipped he was.
As a result, I was able to find out Dantes's location as well as the reason for his cooperation with him.
"The Dawn Society, huh..."
Zahard murmured quietly while watching Eitel disclose the information he knew.
"We've gotten entangled with some bothersome people."
"Indeed, we have."
"The fact that they've organized a private militia of this scale means they're quite remarkable in a certain sense."
Although his expression didn't show it, there was a hint of surprise in Zahard's tone.
He had also come to realize everything now.
The reason Eitel became involved with the 'Six Fingers' was because of 'Dantes Christo'.
And even more, how 'Dantes' was associated with the 'Dawn Society'.
"How much do you know about the Dawn Society?"
"I know that it consists of high-ranking members from the nobility. They have enough influence to sway society as a whole. Also, individual members are quite powerful."
Judging by what he had overheard, Zahard seemed to have some understanding of the 'Dawn Society'.
After all, it was a place where individuals gathered for personal gain, the revival of their family, or the pursuit of great strength.
Perhaps they had reached out to Zahard as well.
However...
'I am part of the Dawn Society, too...'
They wouldn't know that, would they?
Probably not. How much effort have I put into hiding it until now?
'But now, it's becoming overwhelming.'
Just like you can't hide the sky with your palm.
Eventually, the entire capital will learn that I am part of the Dawn Society.
When that happens, the royal family, who loathes them, will make a move.
'I need to handle this swiftly.'
To survive, that is.
***
As expected, Dantes was currently with the 'Six Fingers'.
The moment speculation became reality.
In my mind, the locations of various 'Six Fingers' hideouts surfaced.
There is actually a special episode called 'Extermination of the Rats' that occurs a bit later.
It is an event where the Sword Saint and his comrades must inevitably purge the slum groups, who served as a necessary evil.
However, it only occurs as a result of the player's choices, not something unconditional.
'But I have visited many times.'
I have stored the locations of the 'Six Fingers' hideouts in my head.
'Hmm, Dantes would be with Claude, and the remaining fingers would be the problem.'
To march in alone and eliminate all of the 'Six Fingers' and handle 'Dantes'?
I'm well aware that it's an impossible feat.
No matter how strong Yulian is, no one can win against multiple hands with just one.
Moreover, the fingers themselves are known to be considerable powerhouses in this world.
Individually, I could handle them, but if they all attack at once...?
'Even I'd find it difficult.'
But I never intended to do that, especially since the variable known as 'Claude' exists. Taking such a suicidal course of action must be avoided at all costs.
'However, I cannot give up.'
There is a way.
A brilliant plan just came to mind.
'If I find myself lacking the capacity to eliminate the fingers.'
It's simply a matter of borrowing resources from elsewhere.
Furthermore, finding a place to borrow that 'capacity' from was not a challenging task.
The place suffering the most damage due to the current 'Six Fingers' situation.
A peculiar group of people who would choose death over living undignified for the sake of their 'honor'.
Simultaneously, individuals who receive Yulian's irrational loyalty.
That would be the 'royal family'.
As my thoughts solidified to that point.
While pacing through the palace corridor, the sign 'Secretariat' came into my view.
'This is where it all begins.'
***
"Ugh..."
The secretariat chief, Sedn Orbian, who was enjoying tea time, grimaced upon my arrival and let out a sigh.
"It seems to be quite difficult, Sir Yulian. Going against the obligations of nobility is complicated."
Sedn's face was filled with genuine distress.
It was one of the facts I'd gleaned from my past meetings with him.
Sedn had a penchant for ramblings about 'the duties' and 'the essence of nobility.'
For someone who enjoys speaking in circles, it was unusual for him to speak so directly.
Even so, giving up wasn't an option.
"There is nothing difficult about it. Judging from the current situation, I deemed that 'this' aligns with the noble essence you spoke of, Sir Sedn."
"Hmm... While that thought is certainly deserving of respect, let me make one thing clear."
Clink.
Sedn set down his teacup and continued.
"Before finding the 'essence' of nobility, know that one must first show due respect to the 'royalty'. Are you aware of this?"
"Yes."
"So take heart in other matters and do not refuse Prince Osborne's offer."
In what seemed like a consolatory tone, Sedn appealed to me.
"What would Prince Osborne think if you reject the commendation of the Royal Elite Sword-medal?"
A distinctly restless expression appeared on Sedn's face.
In truth, the conversation I had with Sedn upon visiting the secretariat went like this:
Yes, it was true that I captured 'Annarui' at the exchange hall and earned merit, but I couldn't prevent her escape from prison.
For that reason, I cannot possibly accept such a medal!
'Absurd, isn't it?'
Capturing Annarui and her jailbreak were separate events.
To equate both and refuse the 'medal' was essentially an overreaction and an overindulgence.
"No, Sir Sedn."
But in this moment, who am I?
The leading figure in overindulgence and high sensitivity, Yulian.
His reputation for 'fanatical loyalty to the royal family' allows for a rational context for such an extreme response.
"Therefore, I cannot accept it. More than anything, I'm afraid that accepting this would dilute my loyalty to the royal family."
The sincerity in my appeal caused a ripple in Sedn's gaze.
A hesitation, as if pondering whether to speak further.
'My acting skills are improving day by day.'
Of course, it's all a lie.
Loyal to this dreadful royal family, who would do that?
There couldn't possibly be genuine loyalty towards a royal family that would indiscriminately kill people, elderly or young.
Who knows if Yulian was truly like that.
At least I am not.
I still maintain my dignity.
"Kuheum!"
When I revealed my sentiments about the royal family, Sedn appeared somewhat satisfied.
Wow, this guy is the real deal.
Is it because he is directly connected to the royal family as the secretariat chief?
His eyes emanate unwavering loyalty to the royal family.
According to Kaldrach, this man is closely associated with the 'Third Prince', but it hasn't been revealed yet.
However, I feel inclined to believe he is not on my side.
"Still, it would be wise to avoid actions that tarnish the prince's reputation, wouldn't it?"
"Sir Sedn, I have already made up my mind."
Not that I truly had a steadfast decision, but I chose to express it.
"I am not qualified to receive the Royal Elite Sword-medal."
When I displayed my resolution again, Sedn's face turned more troubled.
Realizing that further argument would be futile, Sedn nodded silently.
"You're not refusing due to your ties with the Third Prince, are you?"
"No, it's my personal belief."
"In that case..."
Accepting my explanation, Sedn nodded.
"Nonetheless, be aware, prince Osborne might refuse your refusal as well. Keep that in mind."
"Well..."
I left my words trailing.
Feigning as if I hadn't considered that Osborne might refuse my rejection.
"I hadn't thought of that."
In truth, that was my objective.
For Osborne to reject my 'refusal'.
***
Tomorrow.
The day Yulian is to receive the 'Royal Elite Sword'-medals.
It's common knowledge that many harbor jealousy over his commendation.
Though the position of 'secretariat chief' is a hub of vast information, verbal exchanges were prolific enough that no eavesdropping was necessary.
Yet──.
'The man himself refusing?'
Naturally, any 'medal' directly conferred by the 'royalty' carries immense value.
It's not merely about the 'benefits' associated with it.
It pertains to the political standing acquired and the ramifications related to it.
'The attention and gossip from surrounding nobility.'
The mere formation of these is what grants the 'medal' its significant worth.
It was assumed Yulian understood this value exceedingly well.
And he refused that──.
'Indeed, the royal family's hunting dog thinks differently.'
From the perspective of a noble representing the secretariat.
While it was beyond comprehension, it couldn't be 'denied' either.
He refused the 'reward' simply because he felt undeserving—aligning with Sedn's perception of noble duty.
'However, prince Osborne might not stay silent.'
The very reason the 2nd Prince Osborne intends to award the medal isn't purely to honor Yulian's 'merit.'
It's to solidify his standing and conveniently rope him in as an ally.
Rumors say that Kaldrach influences Sedn as well but preventing this was beyond the scope of possibility.
'But since the person declined, it shouldn't be a problem for me.'
This fact has already been communicated to the 2nd Prince Osborne.
Sedn glanced sideways through the window.
There he saw Prince Osborne, accompanied by armed knights, making his way to the 'Blind Eyes' building.
***
Faster than expected.
I see the man seated before me.
Wearing a garment emblazoned with the 'royal insignia' and looking at me with an overbearing expression.
The 2nd Prince, Osborne De Adratan.
Truthfully, I anticipated Prince Osborne would come by.
"I came to verify, as it seems like a 'mistake' I couldn't believe."
The royal family, tightly knit with pride, cannot permit even the refusal of their 'commendations'.
Of course, there are political motivations as well, but the likelihood is that pride plays a very significant part.
Above all.
'Dare you refuse the medal from me?'
He needed to recover his wounded sovereign majesty.
Hence the need for preparation.
Without it, I wouldn't have the chance to meet the 2nd Prince before the awarding ceremony.
"Yes."
"I've roughly heard your reasoning. But could you explain once more?"
Osborne's golden eyes shone vibrantly.
Stop thinking unnecessary things and just accept the medal quietly.
Wouldn't that be beneficial to both of us?
That coercive pressure emanated from the prince's entire being.
'Indeed, unlike Kaldrach or Eulsis, he is a rigid fellow.'
Royalty who upholds standards strictly and maintains an authoritative demeanor towards others.
In an attitude befitting of 'noble blood', I smiled inwardly.
'That's why it's easier to use him.'
In the end, their actions originate from 'pride'.
If you know how to handle that 'pride', manipulating them is not difficult.
Even still, being royalty means there's a bit of tension involved.
Making a wrong move would result in wrestling with the knights waiting outside.
"Kuheum."
I cleared my throat to refresh the tension as 'Flugel', who entered with Osborne, glanced my way.
The 2nd Prince is the foremost supporter of mages.
This seemingly makes 'Flugel' a royal mage and the security detail.
The presence of an aged monster alone would suffice for protection, yet it's quintessential 'noble blood'.
Even outside the room, there are numerous knights and attendants.
"It is to preserve the royal honor."
I'm so accustomed to lying it's second nature now; it brings no particular thought.
"Honor?"
Osborne showed slight interest.
"Yes, ultimately the 'Six Fingers' official has escaped. I don't believe that to be a security failure..."
Osborne raised a hand to interrupt my words.
"Yes, it was bound to happen eventually. To be honest, the royal prison security isn't foolproof. I've long told fath... cough."
Osborne corrected himself.
"I've regularly informed His Majesty that there's a need to change the handling of inmates. But it's repeatedly been dismissed."
Was he about to say 'father' just now?
Crown heir number two?
"A structure allowing several agencies to retrieve inmates with mere documents isn't ideal; it needs amending, I'd emphasized. Yet, it constantly faced rejection."
Without knowledge of my musings, Osborne's tone escalated a bit.
"Ultimately, didn't that structure allow the escape of the 'Six Fingers' trash?"
... Indeed.
I have been making use of it extensively, though. Even while escorting Zahard out of there.
"So no, this incident is not your fault, Yulian. It was a systematic flaw within the royal confines, not a fault one must shoulder."
While elaborately continuing, Osborne's message was simply this:
I'm not sure if it's your fault or not, just accept the medal.
Also, act as if you support me, to strengthen my position!
"If that's the case..."
Feigning as if I reluctantly accepted Osborne's words, I began to speak then paused.
This tactic effectively garnered Osborne's attention.
"Postponing the investiture might be wise."
"Postponing?"
"Yes."
It's time to seize the momentum.
Further 'refusal' could potentially provoke 'extraordinary measures'.
"Just as you mentioned earlier, the handling structure for inmates is lacking. Yet despite that, inmates haven't escaped due to fear of the royal family."
Here, offer some praise.
"To let escape a prisoner that shattered such an unstated rule is to sully the royal name. It could mar its prestige, in my view."
Reinforce the groundwork.
Certainly, it is challenging to oppose 'Claude' alongside the 'Six Fingers'.
In light of this, I require collaborators, with power as influential as possible.
"And?"
Predictably, when looking for a 'powerful ally' within the current order.
"Capturing Annarui alongside eradicating the Six Fingers preceding the ceremony, what do you say?"
Isn't it the royal family indeed?