Chapter 38
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Orundels Resilience.
Ian walked along a dim corridor.
As he stepped into the castle, the first thing he did was to search the bedrooms of the Marquis and the Archduke.
No one stopped him.
They all regarded him as a divine knight of TyrEn, so no one dared hinder his path.
Of course, they were also too busy to pay him much attention.
Declan needed to proceed with the formalities of inheriting the Marquiss title and dominion rights.
Mercenaries were sorting through the followers of the Marquis and the Archduke, identifying and dealing with the fallen ones.
It was essentially a purge operation. Since the coup had succeeded, this was a natural continuation of events.
Seems like the smell is coming from here.
Philip, who followed behind him, spoke up.
Ian said calmly
Seems like the stench might cover you soon enough. Be prepared.
So, what Im suggesting is, couldnt we delay our thorough search until tomorrow? Weve already had a battle today, and searching the rooms of the Marquis and the Archduke should be sufficient evidence for now. The evidence isnt going to escape on its own.
That might be possible. Thieves have infiltrated the castle grounds.
Ah.
Philip sighed briefly, thinking about the mercenaries.
Stepping onto the spiral staircase leading underground, Ian continued speaking.
Everyone seems intoxicated by shallow senses of justice and duty today, but things will change by tomorrow. If the evidence falls into the hands of those zealots, well have nothing but trouble.
True. Even though we dont know exactly whats hidden, we must gather everything without leaving a trace. Honestly, its hard for me to believe as well.
Candlelight from the wall sconces cast faint shadows on Philips face.
Its hard to believe the Duke is one of the fallen No one would believe it without solid evidence.
He seems to have a good reputation.
More than that. He acts as a representative for His Majesty, delivering decrees and addressing requests from the lords while overseeing the territory in His Majestys absence. Ive encountered him a couple of times at the borderlands. He was wise and merciful. I heard he even opposed the war
Philips gaze turned somber.
And hes the leader of the fallen
Thats why he must have successfully deceived everyone around him. In that sense
They reached the end of the staircase.
Ians eyes fell upon the concealed underground chamber.
If we leave him alone, hell eventually devour the entire kingdom. It doesnt concern me, but it wont be the same for you.
Of course.
Then stop speculating and lets move. There must be a secret chamber used by the Marquis. If its not here, it must lead to a sewer. Dont miss a single detail.
Understood.
Philip pulled out a wall sconce, and Ian followed him inside.
A proper feeling of being in the right place washed over Ian.
The underground chamber, which led to both a shelter and a sewer, was designed perfectly to conceal a secret room.
Ian had already scanned every corner using magical detection.
Whoa.
Ian stopped in front of a broken statue in a corner of the room.
As he was searching around, he pushed a brick in the wall.
Creak-
The statue shifted to the side, revealing a hidden passage.
It was a low passage that wouldnt be easily visible from the staircase side, especially with the statues shadow.
Finally, youve found your way again.
Philip arrived, his appetite already whetted.
Glancing at the passage for a moment, he led the way.
This kind of thing doesnt surprise me anymore.
As they walked through the short passage and emerged into a new scene, Ian muttered.
A dim room devoid of any light.
When illuminated by candlelight, red and purple symbols engraved on the walls and ceiling became visible.
These patterns were obviously meant to evade the gaze of a deity.
As soon as they stepped in, the Sword of Condemnation fell silent, knowing the judgment within.
Ian inspected the corners of the room briefly the desk holding books, scrolls, ritual daggers, and plates. Eventually, his gaze settled on a central dais.
A four-sided dais about chest height held a large, purple-magicked orb.
Collect everything that could serve as evidence. You can check while on the move.
Ian took out the sealing box from his pocket.
He had been using the seal that had once held Tesia.
The heads of the Marquis and Mason were inside.
Yes.
Without any surprise, Ian produced the box from thin air. Philip approached the desk.
Ian, already expecting some sort of magical phenomenon, was less taken aback by the scene before him.
Hmm.
Ian stood before the dais and hesitated.
The intense memories associated with this sphere made him pause.
Its definitely not a Fragment of Chaos. Nor a bead.
Ian had changed since that time.
He could now distinguish chaos energy to some extent as a distinct sensation.
It was the change caused by holding a Fragment of Chaos within him.
The taint of chaos energy within the sphere was very faint.
Then where Lets take a look.
Ian reached out his hand.
As if responding to his touch, the energy within the sphere shimmered.
As his hand made contact, a purplish energy surged up his arm.
Ian didnt panic. He had intended for this to happen to some extent.
He had trapped a bit of chaos energy in his palm.
Perhaps it could even be linked back to the mastermind behind everything the Marquis.
A welcome appeared before his eyes.
It seemed to be empty, but it was a different sight than he had seen before.
A space covered in purple and bright red.
Other regions of the void ? Or, is the void not one?. Because there isnt just one black hole.
Then, suddenly, he felt someones gaze.
It didnt feel like a supernatural presence. More like a silhouette resembling a human figure, albeit blurry.
Despite seeing it, Ian felt no sense of intimidation or excitement.
Ian guessed that this was the consciousness of another fallen person who was now spying on this void.
Who are you?
Unexpectedly, the thoughts that followed were not hostile at all.
If anything, it was the opposite.
-Who among the apostles dared venture into the abyss without warning? Could it be that you are a disciple of chaos?
Whats this brat saying?
Caught up in the persistent thoughts, Ian found himself chuckling unintentionally.
The consciousness of the unknown fallen being trembled.
-If you are displeased I apologize
-Why did you think of me as a disciple?
This is working.
Ian asked, his own consciousness transmitted, while the foreign thoughts spoke hesitantly.
-Well of course
As if a radio with an off-kilter frequency, the ethereal presence started to fade.
-Merged with the voids chaos and the Abyss
The noise mixed in as the thoughts vanished.
The purple magic that covered Ians pupils evaporated in an instant.
Ian blinked.
The magic that had filled the sphere had suddenly disappeared.
Ah, right. It was just a consumable item.
Philips voice came from behind.
What was that just now?
I wanted to ask that too. How did it seem to you?
Magic from the sphere flowed around you and then disappeared.
Oh, really?
Flowed around him, he thought. Ian furrowed his brows.
It was because the Fragments of Chaos in his image had grown so minutely that it was hard to feel unless he concentrated his mind.
A faint smile played on his lips.
It seemed like he had gained a special ability that he wouldve obtained from turning into a fallen in the game.
Increasing the total amount of chaos energy in this way was possible.
That was one more reason to find and eliminate the fallen.
Sir, are you okay? You havent been touched by contaminated magic, have you?
Considering that youre still alive, it seems not. Gather your belongings. Weve seen everything there is to see.
Ians nonchalant tone lingered on the suddenly empty sphere.
Apostle of chaos
Looking at it more closely, it might not have been entirely incorrect.
***
Ippotranslation
***
The next morning.
Is that really enough?
Declan asked as they walked.
Despite having just washed up and put on clean clothes, an air of nobility clung to him.
It will suffice.
Ian nodded. It wasnt an empty promise.
The new gloves, boots, a light chainmail shirt, and leather bands of uncertain make he was wearing them all. Each item was high-quality and capable of providing information.
Philip, who followed them, was also adorned with multiple pieces of new armor.
Practicality over uniformity a typical mercenary armament.
Very well then. Here. Ive put it in so you wont feel worried. Id like to give you more, but as you know, I now have to consider the finances of the territory.
Declan handed over a pouch of coins.
This should be enough.
Despite his words, the pouch felt quite hefty.
Ian smiled and tucked the pouch into his pocket.
Exiting the castle, they made their way to the stables.
Declan suddenly spoke
Its a shame youre leaving after just having breakfast.
I have to finish the mission, so theres no helping it. You also have a lot on your plate from now on. Your position has changed, and you have to think about a lot of things.
True, but
Declans voice trailed off. He signaled to the new stable master, then abruptly stopped walking.
Ian. Would it be alright if I called you by your name?
Its fine. Marquis Burchard.
Ian stopped and replied. A smile brushed across Declans momentarily tense face.
Being called that sounds strange. Anyway like you said, I have a lot to do from now on. I have a lot to think about. My perspective, my position everything has changed.
So, what do you want to say?
After this mission, you wont come back, will you? I wont force you to stay forever. However, I would appreciate it if you could stay with me at least until I become skilled in handling everything. I need a capable and trustworthy right-hand man.
Ian chuckled.
His dry but not unpleasant smile was like usual.
You need a right-hand man who can communicate well.
Of course, thats part of it.
But unfortunately, I cant fulfill that request. Im not someone who can settle in one place.
I see I had a feeling youd say that.
Declan let out a rueful laugh, nodding his head.
It was a long shot. I said it because I felt a bit sorry. Its the first time someone seemed to see right through me like that.
Its probably because we share some similarities. Like you, Im familiar with deceiving those around me.
It was a casual tone, but it was enough to surprise Declan.
Ian sighed at his gaze.
Neither the mercenaries nor the people, in fact, like them at all.
Since when did you know? No, how did you know?
Well . I just got it.
Okay. You have good eyesight. Glad then I thought my acting was messed up again. thats a problem We have to keep having.
Seeing Declan finally let out a sigh of relief, this time Ian smiled.
You were worried about your acting skills.
It cant be helped that Ive already been caught. Its not a wrong word. Actually, Im still worried. Now that the rebellion has succeeded, the mercenaries will rot my insides from now on.
It was a legitimate concern.
Although thanks to Ian, Declan got a chance.
In fact, when he appeared, Declans original plan was ruined.
Originally, while rolling on the battlefield with mercenaries, he intended to solidify his dominance over them.
Eliminate the uncontrolled ones, and tame the ones that remain.
With that process gone, Declan had to find another way to put a leash on the unlearned and wayward mercenaries.
If youre worried about the wolves, you could always bring in hunting dogs to fight them in your place.
Ian blurted out abruptly.
Declans eyes lit up.
Hunting dogs?
The ones that were abandoned by their owners and are waiting only for death.
Ah!
Declan let out a short exclamation. He immediately realized that Ian was referring to the commanders and officials who survived the purge.
Wouldnt they be grateful if their new master personally put the leash back on them? Theyd fight the wolves to show off to their master, struggling against the wolves.
I suppose I could pull both sides leashes depending on the situation After all, youre amazing.
Declan looked at Ian with genuine admiration. With Ian by his side, he could perhaps dream even bigger dreams than before. However, he didnt voice those thoughts. If he were to bring up a topic he had already declined, it might eliminate any remaining possibilities.
Just then, the stable hand came out with the horses.
A gleaming black horse with a flowing mane caught Declans eye.
Looks like your horse is here.
I dont think thats my horse.
Your horses had been groomed so nicely. I chose one that suits you. It was your brothers favorite.
I wont decline, but its also a bribe. Please convey my regards to His Majesty. Tell him that the new lords loyalty to the kingdom runs deep.
Not difficult. It doesnt matter whether what I say is true or not.
Indeed. You cant lie in front of me.
Well, as long as you dont turn into a fallen. Remember that you might meet me again someday when youre tempted.
But then, you might not meet me as a friend or ally.
Declan laughed.
Thats quite a threatening remark. Remember this. I have no desire to imagine meeting you as an enemy.
Someday, we will meet again, Lord Marquis.
Philip approached to take the reins. Ian resumed his stride, and under Philips guidance, he mounted the horse with skill.
Watching him silently, Declan finally voiced his last question.
Can I ask one more thing?
With such a splendid bribe, ask as many as you want.
Do you think His Majesty will go to war even when there are such conspiracies brewing within the kingdom?
Treating me like a fortune teller, arent you?
A peculiar smile curved Ians lips as he held the reins.
But its likely he will.
!
And after that, who knows, something even greater might occur. This world is so chaotic, after all.
Ian shrugged his shoulders and turned his head.
Good luck. The fate of this region is in your hands now.
With that, Ian rode the horse.
Philip followed, skillfully leading the horse. Declan watched them for a moment before suddenly turning his gaze.
Paton was approaching.
Have they left?
Yes, they have, Sir Paton.
Declan said with a smile on his lips.
Paton added, smiling as if the title was unfamiliar.
You should go. The townspeople are gathered by the castle wall, waiting for the address from His Grace, no, Lord.
And on the wall?
Our mercenaries no, the soldiers of the Vanguard, along with the spared officials and commanders, have all gathered.
Good. Lets go right away.
Like this? You should change your clothes.
Its fine. This looks more natural.
Declan turned around.
A double leash I need to come up with a convincing excuse for that. I dont want to be resented from the start.
Mulling over the advice, he continued walking. Then, he suddenly looked back.
The sight of Ian and Philip was nowhere to be found.
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Translator; ippo
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