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“If I were the ‘Black Knight’, what would you do?”

I emphasized my point forcefully, and in response, Gerard hesitated.

Seeing his reaction, it seemed clear he had no solid proof—just his conjectures he had articulated.

Testing the waters, huh!

“With a three-inch tongue, framing others is a specialty of the nobility, Sir Gerard.”

I pushed harder, and Gerard slightly turned his head and scoffed, but his confidence didn’t feel as solid as when he first broached the topic.

…Sigh.

I breathed a sigh of relief internally, observing Gerard’s demeanor.

Of course, I didn’t expect this conversation to flow as smoothly as it had with Tenellon’s case. That was a misunderstanding, but Gerard harbored ‘suspicions’ towards me.

‘I shouldn’t have bandaged it.’

After a quick glance at my side, I turned back to face Gerard.

“Working as the royal sword, I’ve encountered similar situations numerous times. Yet, I am still alive and belong to ‘Closed Eyes’, the royal exclusive agency, and I came here as its representative. Do you know why?”

I subtly shook the scabbard tied at my waist.

“While a tongue can injure people, a sword ends lives definitively.”

Clash!

The sound of my sword hitting the scabbard echoed.

With that metallic clash and my smile, I felt the temperature around us drop sharply.

“Sir Gerard, I prefer the certainty of a ‘sword’ over the smooth ‘tongues’ of nobles. Would you care to see?”

“J-Julian…?”

“Why is he suddenly reaching for his sword…?”

“That crazy man. What is he trying to do now?”

My actions startled the guests at the banquet, and even Arba, the host of the event, looked on helplessly.

A sneering smile formed on Gerard’s lips. Seizing the situation, he made a theatrical gesture to focus everyone’s attention.

“Ha ha, why so serious, Sir Julian? I merely mentioned you injured the same area as the infamous ‘Black Knight.'”

In the game as here.

Indeed, he’s as disagreeable as ever.

Although I didn’t like Gerard’s behavior, I knew I had to step back.

Any further objections on my part would only steer the conversation where Gerard wanted it to go.

“Julian as the Black Knight?”

“Surely not.”

If it were truly ‘Julian’, he wouldn’t care about these gazes and would have drawn his sword and struck Gerard.

Sigh, relax, relax.

‘Julian’, you need to hold back now.

‘We’ need to keep our friendship with the Godric family! Connections are important!

Let’s just let this go for now.

“So, you ‘mistook’ me for the ‘Black Knight’, and I merely intended to prove otherwise with my sword. I had no other intention.”

“This too is part of noble entertainment. I guess I still have much to learn, Sir Julian. At these social parties often…?”

Cutting off Gerard’s rambling, I subtly leaked a not-so-weak point of his.

“However! There is no truth to be found in that joke. Didn’t those guys from ‘ Nameless Gang’ recently claim to be the ‘Black Knight’ ‘?”

The Nameless Gang.

As I mentioned the name, Gerard slightly furrowed his brow—a fleeting change that went unnoticed by others, but being ‘Julian’, I caught it clearly.

Well, it’s an obvious story, but it’s already known.

How many times have I played this game?

“If someone of Sir Gerard’s stature might indeed have connections with the ‘Nameless Gang’, perhaps you should ask them ‘directly’. You wouldn’t claim to be unaware, would you? Huhu.”

“Julian, you bastard.”

Huh? Bastard? I’m sure that’s what I heard.

I glanced around; it seemed only I caught that, making it awkward to challenge.

Gerard, now with a stern expression, stared at me.

“What do you mean by that? Are you suggesting I have associations with those vile and lowly creatures?”

Gerard stood still, suppressing his emotions, but it was clear to me that he was tense.

Gerard Oclean.

His character in the game was simple: ‘A man with enormous possessiveness’

Driven by his possessiveness, he held the position of the western district head in the ‘Dawn Society’ and also coveted the ‘Mingyue Pavilion’, owned by the ‘Blood Fiend Clan’ in the slums, aiming to seize it to exploit the hidden scandals and secrets of the imperial nobility.

However, as a noble, it wasn’t easy for him to directly venture into the slums due to public scrutiny.

‘So he recruited some strong fighters and secretly formed the ‘Nameless Gang’ to infiltrate there.’

Fearing that their true identities as knights or soldiers of the empire might be revealed, they masked their faces, which eventually became the identity of the ‘Nameless Gang.’

Thus, the slums were trifurcated into ‘Nameless Gang’, ‘Blood Fiend Clan’, and ‘Six Fingers’, continuously scheming and checking each other, aiming for their mutual destruction.

His ultimate goal was for his faction, the Nameless Gang, to unify and rule the underworld.

“Why so, Sir Gerard? Isn’t it just ‘noble entertainment’?”

As I spoke with a teasing tone, Gerard clicked his tongue and slowly approached me.

Even then, his gaze lingered on the bandage around my waist.

“How much do you know?”

Gerard whispered so only I could hear, evidently uncomfortable with the fact that I knew his secrets.

Indeed, with the Dawn Society currently disdaining the ‘Black Knight’, if this information reached Tenellon’s ears, Gerard’s personal safety would be clearly at risk.

“Huhu, how much do I know, indeed? Why doesn’t the distinguished Sir Gerard ‘directly’ check with Baran?”

At the mention of ‘Baran’, Gerard bit his lip as his face turned beet red with anger.

Moreover, the murmuring among the nobles watching us started to grow.

“…If the joke was displeasing, I apologize thus. Sorry, Sir Julian.”

Deeming further argument too risky, Gerard quickly put on a genial smile and offered his hand for a handshake.

The situation looking grim, shall we step back?

…Yes, let’s end it here.

I have no intention of causing further commotion. Even though they call Julian ‘the smiling executioner’ and ‘the dog of the imperial family’, this is the Godric family, one of the empire’s four major houses. Moreover, it’s a house I need to keep on my side through ongoing friendly relations. Just as I was about to reluctantly accept Gerard’s handshake, a fierce pain erupted in my side, as if lava were boiling within. 

As I turned to see what it was, I caught a glimpse of Gerard’s smile.

“Ha, I really need to check for myself, don’t I?”

The pain shot through me from toe to head, nearly making my eyes roll back in agony—no, almost making them blaze with fury. Yet before anger took over, my body started to draw out mana in an attempt to prove my innocence. 

This crazy bastard!

“I hear the ‘Black Knight’ suffered a severe wound to his side due to Pintel’s magic. A touch should confirm it quite clearly… Hmm?”

As Gerard felt my side, confusion spread across his face.

“It’s not there, could it really be… Cough!”

Subduing him was easy. My body reacted to the agony; I grabbed his neck and brought the drawn sword close to it.

***

At the banquet hall, Elenoa, observing the situation, clicked her tongue as she saw Gerard being grasped by the neck.

“Such a foolish man.”

That man, notorious for his possessiveness, had always been a boor regardless of the setting. Although his rudeness had never been directed at the Dawn Society or the ‘Archbishop’, Elenoa was well aware that he was a ticking time bomb of impudence.

‘You should have known your audience.’

This time, Gerard’s impudence had picked the wrong opponent.

“Choke… Choke.”

The banquet hall fell eerily silent. The only sound was Gerard’s wheezing, like air leaking from a balloon. Given Julian’s renowned strength, which was fitting for his muscular build, it seemed he could easily twist Gerard’s neck right then.

‘Is this his way of dealing with things?’

Perhaps Julian was letting Gerard live, knowing that he belonged to the same ‘Dawn Society’ as the bishop.

Elenoa decided to keep watching Julian and Gerard for now. Honestly, she didn’t particularly care if either of them got hurt or died.

‘If both of them died, that would be ideal, but that’s unlikely.’

She continued to scrutinize their actions.

“What are you doing now?”

“Put your sword away at once!”

“Do you intend to desecrate a banquet hosted by Lord Arba?”

The nobles, already tense from Julian fiddling with his scabbard, began to rebuke him after he drew his sword. Yet, no one dared to intervene directly, not even the guards from the ‘Godric family,’ likely because of Julian’s infamous strength.

Based on Julian’s past behavior, anyone who confronted him now that his sword was drawn would have to face the consequences.

“The Black Knight…?”

Seeing an opportunity amid the chaos, Julian began to speak in a voice so calm it was hard to imagine he was at the center of the turmoil.

“I have no interest in equating myself with that scoundrel, regardless of whether or not I’m identified as him. Of course, that’s only if I’m unaware. But!”

“Choke…”

“In my presence, speaking ‘directly’ like this puts me in a difficult position, doesn’t it, Sir Gerard?”

As Julian tightened his grip on Gerard’s neck, the latter’s face contorted and began turning a purplish hue.

‘…I want to twist it right now.’

Pain and annoyance were overwhelming, and while he wanted to lose his composure, doing so would result in irreversible consequences, Julian thought.

“It was merely a comparison to the rumors floating around, wasn’t it!”

A noble raised his voice, prompting Julian to shift his attention towards him.

“I am a member of the ‘Closed Eye’, an honorable institution under direct imperial mandate.”

Julian spoke with an assertive tone, subtly pressuring the other.

“To compare me to a lawless villain is to tarnish the stature of the imperial family. Is that what you suggest we overlook?”

“That, that’s…”

“Sir Gerard, you must have been prepared for the consequences when you provoked me.”

“……”

“Oh, it seems I’ve been too passive. Have you forgotten my nickname in the meantime?”

The smiling executioner.

A remorseless killer who, regardless of status, would execute anyone defying the imperial family.

That thought once again dominated their minds.

Observing this, Julian thought:

Now is not the time to be the hero who defeats nobility for the empire’s citizens, not the ‘Black Knight’, but rather, I must return to being the villainous ‘Julian’.

“Sir Julian…!”

Through them, a seemingly fragile boy burst forward.

‘Huh? Why are you here?’

It was Arba Godric, the protagonist of the banquet.

“Lord Arba, it’s dangerous!”

“That crazy… Ahem, Sir Julian has drawn his sword. It would be best not to approach.”

Despite the servants’ dissuasions, Arba hesitated but then clenched his fist and slowly approached Julian.

“Please stop. This is the Godric family’s banquet hall.”

His body trembled, yet he spoke with resolve.

Julian couldn’t help but smirk at his actions. If he could use this boy, perhaps the conversation could progress more smoothly.

“This man sought to insult me, a member of the imperial household, and tarnish the honor of the royal family.”

Julian’s voice was soft yet firm, and Arba looked even more frightened, pitifully like a kicked puppy.

Everyone in the banquet hall thought:

The outcome won’t change.

Though he bravely stepped forward, Arba lacked the resolve to resolve the situation, inadequate to bear the mantle of the Godric family’s eldest son.

“Lord Arba, that will be enough. You should continue to overlook this as you usually do.”

“What?”

“The puppet eldest son of the Godric family. Just as the name suggests.”

Listening silently, Elenoa showed a slight sign of discomfort at Julian’s venomous words.

At a remark seemingly unrelated to the protagonist of the banquet, Gerard,

“How dare you insult Lord Arba like that!?” Elenoa’s thoughts were echoed as the butler and the nobles supporting Arba exploded into a frenzy.

“Even if you receive the full backing of the royal family, isn’t that too arrogant, Sir Julian!”

“Apologize to Lord Arba at once…”

“Would you please be quiet? I am discussing this with Lord Arba. Would you like me to silence that mouth of yours directly?” 

The butler and nobles of the Godric family instantly fell silent as if their tongues had been coated in honey.

At that moment, Arba, unexpectedly, stepped forward.

“Sir Julian, I appreciate your participation in the banquet, but I cannot forgive any more disruption!”

Arba’s voice carried a bit more force, causing Julian to inwardly smile.

‘Yes, that’s it.’

Despite his trembling and frail appearance, he spoke with conviction.

“You should leave.”

The nobles gathered at the banquet were noticeably shocked.

The usually unassertive eldest son of the Godric family speaking so directly was unprecedented.

And his opponent was Julian, no less.

The devil with narrowed eyes, the smiling executioner.

The nobles swallowed hard, anticipating a storm.

“If Lord Arba says so, then… yes, let us do that.”

Despite the tension weighing down the hall, Julian readily complied.

Thud.

He released his grip on Gerard’s neck, and the gasping man collapsed to the floor.

“Cough… Cough!”

As Gerard began to breathe again, violent coughs brought color back to his face.

“I apologize for causing a disturbance at a celebratory event, Lord Arba. I hope you have a pleasant time.”

Julian then bowed respectfully to Arba, gave Gerard a once-over, and warned,

“I hope you will refrain from mentioning the distasteful name ‘Black Knight’ in my presence, Sir Gerard.”

With that, Julian left the banquet hall with a light step and a serene smile.

***

Phew.

After Julian had left, a brief silence followed.

“Remarkable, Lord Arba!”

“To think you drove out Julian!”

“Lord Arba, you did very well!”

“Exactly, exactly. Such a gathering and that mad dog are like water and oil! They absolutely cannot mix!”

The hall began to buzz with renewed energy.

The talk of the night centered around Arba Godric.

He had, after all, managed to stand his ground against Julian.

“No, I didn’t really do anything…”

“Your bravery was comparable to that of the ‘smiling executioner’!”

“Ha, if only my son could take after Lord Arba.”

After the incident, the nobles’ attitudes towards Arba changed distinctly. This was evident in how they addressed him.

Perceptions don’t change easily.

Especially when related to a person’s nature.

‘From “young master” to “lord”.’

From the frail eldest son of the Godric family to a potential future head.

Julian, with a single act, had changed perceptions that might otherwise have taken years to shift.

‘Could it be that Sir Julian calculated all this…?’ Arba thought it was possible. Meanwhile, others derisively referred to Julian as ‘the smiling executioner’, a title they mocked. If it had been him, he might have brandished his sword in defiance or tried to change his derogatory nickname by proving his worth in other ways.

But Julian did not do that. Instead, he leveraged it to instill fear in people.

‘Unconcerned by the opinions of others, using everything to his advantage…’ While the force from Julian’s moonlight sword was formidable in its own right, Arba found himself admiring Julian’s calm and collected demeanor even more.

From their first encounter in the royal palace to the moment he assisted during a demon attack and even going forward, regardless of what anyone said, Julian would remain Arba’s idol.

***

‘It’s clear, this was a calculated move.’

Though a fellow bishop, Julian had marked a distinction with the rude Gerard and simultaneously indebted the future head of the Godric family. It would have been a different matter if he had been unaware.

‘It seems even the frail Arba has noticed,’ thought Elenoa as she shifted her gaze to him. He was still looking towards the place where Julian had disappeared, seemingly aware of how Julian’s actions had helped him.

“Besides,” Elenoa remembered the moment before Julian disappeared, their eyes meeting. Although it was the first time seeing her in ‘this guise,’ Julian seemed to have perceived her true identity.

‘It must be my imagination.’

***

“Damn it, that hurts like hell!”

Having left the Godric family’s banquet hall, I went into the bathroom and slowly unraveled the bandage around the injury that Gerard had grasped. As I did, the hardened ‘Sombra’ revealed itself from the injury site.

“I suppose Gerard didn’t notice it…?” Before Gerard’s hand reached, I had swiftly applied the ‘Sombra’ with the speed of light, hardening it to escape his suspicions, but the pain was unavoidable.

Moreover, the ‘Sombra’ imbued with magic felt foreign, almost as if bugs were crawling through my nerves.

“Phew…” Relaxing and cutting off the mana flow, the ‘Sombra’ softened and dissolved into nothingness.

‘I wish that young man would catch on.’

Although my departure was due to pain, I had performed quite the act.

“Gerard.” The thought of his face brought a resurgence of pain to my side.

Looking up, I stared into the mirror over the sink. My eyes, usually narrow and unreadable, were not visible through the damp strands of hair.

Normally, I would curse those inscrutable eyes, but this time, I knew for sure.

“After all, you’re not up to it.”

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“We’ve arrived, Sir Julian.”

As I was gazing out at the scenery from the back seat of the carriage, the coachman’s voice made me turn my head. What entered my sight was one of the four great noble families of the Adratan Empire, the Godric mansion. The mansion, notably large and majestic, was bustling with people from the entrance. As I opened the door of the carriage and stepped out, a man who seemed to be a butler hurried over from inside the mansion.

“Sir Julian! Thank you so much for making time during your busy schedule! Young master Arba will be very pleased!”

“It’s an invitation to the birthday of Arba Godric, the eldest son of the Godric family.”

“I see. Let’s go then.”

“Really?”

“If it’s a heartfelt request from Commander Odwin, I shall consider attending.”

Holding the invitation that entered my hands as “closed eyes,” I attended Arba Godric’s birthday party. The Godric family’s butler, who came out to meet me, greeted me with a polite demeanor, but confusion was evident in his eyes.

“After all, even Odwin was taken aback.”

Until now, ‘Julian’ as ‘closed eyes’ has only dealt with the purging of nobles and the subjugation of demons, avoiding all other trivial tasks. It seems a bit absurd to represent ‘closed eyes.’ To this question, Odwin replied:

“Regardless, you are the epitome of ‘closed eyes.’ Besides, they want to show that they have the boldness to invite you to the party.”

Indeed…

Who would invite the ‘laughing executioner’ to a party? Whether I come or not.

Showing off to others that they have the audacity to send an invitation to ‘Julian.’

And if I were to accept the invitation, it would be a display of ‘this is what we are capable of.’

“And do you know? The eldest son of the Godric family admires you.”

However, I could not understand Odwin’s added comment. Admires me, or rather ‘Julian’?

It’s as if a demon is shedding its horns to become human.

‘I simply cannot understand it.’

Nevertheless, since there is goodwill, I decided to take this opportunity to forge a connection.

With so many stories intertwined, in a situation where anything could happen, there is no way I’m planning to face it alone like the game’s ‘Julian.’

And…

‘A connection with the four great families is not easily obtained…’

As I was guided by the butler to the Godric’s banquet hall, I suddenly noticed a bandage peeking out from beneath my shirt.

The wound I received from Pintel in the Dusk Flame. The mild pain was annoying, but bandaging it felt somewhat better.

“It doesn’t stand out, but if one looks closely, they might notice.”

No one would think this injury was from playing the role of the ‘black knight.’

“What did you say, Sir Julian?”

As I paused briefly, the butler looked at me with a puzzled expression, but I endured the pain and smiled nonchalantly.

“The art pieces displayed here are indeed splendid, but there are many counterfeits, haha.”

“Ah, how could there be counterfeits in our family’s collection…”

“Is that so? Let’s proceed then.”

Leaving the bewildered butler behind, I confidently walked ahead into the banquet hall.

The banquet hall perfectly showcased the Godric family’s dominant presence in the social circle, immaculately maintained and impressive.

The space was divided into indoor and outdoor areas by a structure resembling a half-open dome, enhancing the contrast between the two environments. This setup prompted admiration from the onlookers.

“Sir Julian! I never imagined I would see you here!”

While I was admiring the interior, a stiff voice recognized me.

Who are you… Ah! The bald one!

It was Allom, the vice-principal with whom I had formed an acquaintance at Bayer Academy. His distinctly bald head was still quite memorable.

“I did not expect to meet Sir Allom here either.”

“Ha, haha…! Our Bayer Academy has quite a deep connection with the Godric family.”

Connections with the empire’s four great families mean patrons. Although ‘Bayer Academy’ is national, it does not refuse sponsorship.

“It’s especially nice to see someone like you at such a gathering.”

“Is that so?”

“Yes, haha!”

“But… it seems not everyone feels the same?”

Allom’s hearty laughter gradually faded as he too began to sense the atmosphere around us.

The gathered nobles looked at me unfavorably and whispered among themselves.

The nobles who glared at me as if they wanted me dead were probably those related to the nobles ‘Julian’ had dealt with.

Their glares could kill.

Fortunately, I had become somewhat accustomed to these sharp stares, and they no longer caused me much resentment.

“Everyone seems to shrink back at the prestige of Sir Julian. After all, the name ‘Black Eye’ of the royal exclusive agency is no ordinary title. Ha, haha.”

Allom tried to put a positive spin on the mood, but it seemed he realized it was futile.

“Oh, Sir Yulius! I see you here!”

He gave an awkward smile and then made an acquaintance gesture towards another noble a little distance away, quickly moving towards them.

Leaving him behind, I walked towards the dome where I encountered an unexpected figure.

“Elenoa, is it?”

A bishop of the Dawn Society and ranked fifth in the hierarchy of shadow magic, ‘Barugo’ magician, Elenoa Demisel appeared before my eyes.

Of course, it was not the same appearance I had seen at the Dawn Society. Participating in the party, she had altered her appearance using her specialty, ‘magic.’

Or rather, that must be the real ‘Elenoa Demisel.’

‘Should I acknowledge her?’

But, that thought did not translate into action.

Quietly. Cautiously, but not stealthily.

Had there been secrecy and a murderous intent, I would have drawn my sword.

Pretending not to notice, I remained silent.

“Quite a fine piece, isn’t it, Sir Julian? This work was made with the help of Eterona, one of the disciples of Corusius.”

Turning my head slightly, I saw a boy whose demeanor seemed fragile and timid.

“Eterona, a disciple of the great painter Corusius, is known for his unusual talent in interior and architecture rather than oil painting, you know that, right Sir Julian?”

Yes, ‘Julian’ would know well.

I don’t know a thing, though.

But this kid must be…

…Arba Godric, it seems.

The moment this fragile-looking boy approached me, the surrounding gazes subtly shifted.

Indeed, he is the protagonist of this gathering.

And right next to the boy, a stern-looking man was tagging along.

“Ahem, Young Master Arba.”

As the butler whispered into his ear, Arba seemed to realize something and became slightly flustered.

“I’m sorry, Sir Julian. I should have greeted you first, but I was so pleased to see you after such a long time…”

The eldest son of one of the empire’s four great families.

And a member of a family that dominates the social circles, but…

‘What’s with this clumsy guy?’

My first impression of Arba was not very favorable.

‘It’s been a while’ means that we must have met somewhere before, which is good.

Then, building a connection shouldn’t be too difficult. If there’s some common ground, we can latch onto that to start a conversation.

‘The connection between this frail young lord and Julian.’

It wouldn’t be through social circles. ‘Julian’ has never shown himself in such circles.

And judging by his spirit… he’s not someone who has trained in swordsmanship.

At best, we might have crossed paths in the imperial palace.

“Yes, it’s been a while since we met in the ‘Imperial Palace.'”

“…Yes?”

Seeing Arba’s puzzled face, I realized my mistake.

Was it not at the imperial palace?

“Actually, the last time we met was at a symposium hosted by the Imperial Art Association.”

Imperial Art Association?

That jogged my memory.

Among the numerous dues notices flying in under ‘Julian’s’ name, it’s the place that extorts money under the guise of ‘membership fees.’

“Could it be that I am mistaken?”

“No, not at all. Sir Julian wouldn’t make such a mistake.”

Although Arba waved his hands in denial, I continued.

“It’s not a mistake. The venue of that symposium was indeed styled very much like the ‘Imperial Palace.’ I remember saying it felt as though I was actually in the palace.”

Now that I’ve pretended to know him, there’s no turning back.

It’s quite embarrassing to play ‘Julian’ at times like this.

I had to put on a bold face and act shamelessly.

“Was it so?”

“Do you not remember?”

“The style of the Imperial Palace… it’s a complex style created by various architects and artists… Ah!”

Arba’s eyes widened as if he had realized something.

“One of the artists who assisted in the palace architecture was responsible for that hall’s design! Now I understand what you meant.”

“Huhu.”

Instead of responding, I just gave a short laugh.

Arba sent me a look of deeper admiration than before.

‘Is it the atmosphere?’

Even if I blurt out nonsensical things, he interprets them in his own way.

Arba, recalling the event, hesitantly began to speak.

“That being said, it’s impressive. I could never have imagined… that it had anything to do with the architectural styles of the imperial buildings…”

“Hello, Young Master Arba!”

During Arba’s speech, a boisterous voice cut in.

“…Sir Gerard.”

“It’s an honor to remember my face. Haha!”

His neat attire and polite demeanor contrasted sharply with the thuggish vibe of someone I had spoken with one night, Pintel.

‘That guy was there too.’

As I was reflecting, Gerard approached with confident strides.

“I am always indebted to Lord Vinaran of the Godric family. Oh, and Sir Julian is here too, eh?”

Even though it was clear he knew and approached intentionally, he pretended otherwise.

Then, pointing to my side with a puzzled expression, Gerard indicated a spot where my shirt slightly bulged due to the bandage underneath.

Pointing at the spot with his finger, Gerard smirked.

“Wrapped up in bandages, I see. Hurt in the line of duty for ‘Closed Eyes’?”

“Yes, those who tarnish the royal name can only be dealt with in ways words cannot, such foolish beings.”

“Really? Are you, are you alright, Sir Julian?”

Arba looked worriedly at my side as he listened.

“Yes, it’s nothing serious.”

“That’s a relief. Still, if you’re uncomfortable, we can…”

“Young Master Arba.”

The interruption came from the butler standing next to him.

“While it’s good to mingle here, as the star of the banquet, perhaps it would be best to engage with many others too?”

“But I still have…”

“The head of the family would likely wish it.”

Upon hearing ‘head of the family,’ Arba bowed his head.

“Ah, I see. Then I’ll meet you both again later, Sir Julian, Sir Gerard.”

After a brief nod, Arba followed the butler deeper into the banquet hall. It seemed my initial impression of his timidity wasn’t mistaken.

“With a firstborn son so lacking in confidence, it’s no wonder the concubines in the Godric family are restless.”

As Arba’s figure receded, Gerard muttered to himself. He chuckled merrily in front of others but didn’t hesitate to gossip once they were gone.

“Considering someone of your stature, Sir Julian, to be wounded, it must have been someone quite skilled.”

I didn’t respond to his remark.

Replying seemed tedious, and getting entangled with this guy was troublesome.

Just as I was about to turn away and head somewhere else.

“Could it possibly be Pintel?”

I stopped in my tracks and slowly turned my head towards Gerard.

It was true that Pintel had caused the injury.

However, at the time of receiving this wound, I was operating as the ‘Black Knight.’

Though it was a situation that could make anyone uneasy, I had already received confirmation from Tenellon that the Dawn Society was unaware of this fact.

‘Looks like you’re not sure either.’

Fortunately, I did not sense any certainty in Gerard’s tone, but him bringing up the topic was likely a test.

“I asked a member of the order who was captured with that rascal by the gendarmerie. I asked how he was defeated by that ‘Black Knight.'”

“Is that so?”

“He said the man was a formidable swordsman. Yet, Pintel’s attack managed to land just once, and coincidentally right there.”

Gerard glanced down at the bandage around my waist.

“Don’t you think it’s too perfect a coincidence to be just chance?”

Watching him, I chuckled dismissively.

“Huhu, if that were true, what would you do about it?”

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“It is said that the identity of the Black Knight has been discovered,” Razlot said cautiously, causing cold sweat to trickle down my back.

‘What?’

Flustered, I found myself unable to utter a word, simply staring blankly at Razlot.

Was it an illusion that my usual poker face as ‘Julian’ was crumbling?

No, it couldn’t be.

I had only acted as the ‘Black Knight’ twice! There shouldn’t have been any slip-ups during those times.

‘I know this game inside out, but unexpected things can happen.’

‘The story has changed because of me.’

Razlot, a double agent, wouldn’t report unconfirmed information to me without a reason. Besides, I knew his weakness, and each time we met, the purple haze around him was distinctly visible.

‘He wouldn’t report mere rumors to me.’

Seeing Razlot’s firm gaze made me think, ‘Is it true? Damn.’

Razlot’s report was like a bombshell.

I swallowed my saliva to calm my burning gut, but it didn’t help at all. In fact, the sound was so loud, I worried Razlot might have heard it.

“Hehe, is that so? I’m curious too about who the ‘Black Knight’ causing all this stir really is.”

It was tough maintaining an expressionless face and speaking without revealing any emotions as I subtly questioned him.

Above Razlot’s head, the purple haze was still prevalent.

“I don’t know for sure, but the Arch Bishop who heard the rumor wants to discuss this directly with Sir Julian. A messenger will be coming soon.”

Damn, it’s bad.

I turned my head slightly to hide my reaction and bit my lip.

Hmm? Something still feels off.

I interfered with Pintel’s acquisition of the Soul Stone and his recruitment of Ruger.

I’ve tricked Bishop Pintel…

Thinking about it, I feel sorry for Pintel. Ahem.

Anyway, if they knew it was me, the Dawn Society wouldn’t just let it slide so peacefully.

They would have mobilized Monsignor and their combat-ready bishops…

‘They would have killed me by now.’

If it’s the Dawn Society I know, they definitely would have.

‘Then why?’

I don’t know.

Maybe there’s a misunderstanding.

That would be fortunate.

“What will you do?”

Razlot asked with evident tension. I slowly shifted my gaze to him.

“I will meet with Sir Tenellon alone…”

I trailed off, examining his face for any signs of change, but there seemed to be none—he didn’t know more than what he had mentioned.

‘Is it a trap?’

Either way, running away while under suspicion would only inflate the doubts into certainties.

“When is this messenger supposed to arrive?”

***

Soon after getting into a carriage sent by the Dawn Society, we arrived at a glass greenhouse located on the outskirts of the city.

“Sir Tenellon is waiting inside,” said the guards who came out to greet me politely as I stepped out of the carriage.

Although their attire and atmosphere were no different from ordinary people, I was certain of their identity. They were ‘Monsignors.’

‘Why are they here…?’

Normally, I would have dismissed it as natural for the Archbishops to have guards, but now, I was suspicious about why they were guarding this place.

It couldn’t be, surely not.

As my suspicions grew, everything that seemed normal now appeared strange.

Trying to hide my unease, I walked past them into the greenhouse.

‘It’s quite well-maintained.’

The interior was vibrant with life.

Due to the optimal temperature and humidity, the plants arranged throughout the greenhouse looked fresh, and there seemed to be no neglected areas or rough edges.

However, there was one out-of-place figure disrupting the harmony of the greenhouse, sitting at the central table.

“Have you arrived? It’s our first time meeting alone like this.”

Somewhat pleased, Tenellon greeted me awkwardly. Of course, I didn’t show it, but…

“How is it?”

With a gesture, Tenellon indicated for me to look around.

Around him were well-maintained pots and orchids, brimming with freshness.

‘What does he want to say?’

What was the intention behind his question?

Why had he called me here?

Did he know everything when he summoned me?

A storm of thoughts brewed in my mind.

“I heard you have a hobby of growing orchids. How are they? Did I do a good job with these orchids?”

Caught off guard by his somewhat odd question, I managed to keep my emotions from showing on my face.

With a smile not reaching my eyes, and a face otherwise expressionless, I hid my feelings behind the character of the ‘stern villain.’

“It appears you’ve tended them yourself.”

“Yes, indeed. It was quite troublesome. I’d like to hear an expert’s opinion from you.”

After briefly inspecting the orchids that Tenellon claimed to have cultivated, I muttered,

“I’m no expert, but even a layman can see this is terrible. How can one ruin orchids to this extent? Even just watering them on time and providing some sunlight wouldn’t have led to this. You really have no knack for orchids.”

It was a harsh assessment but true.

The tips of the leaves were brown from frequent sun exposure, and there were signs of mold in spots.

If the visible parts were this bad, the roots must be rotting unseen.

There might be a nicer way to put it, but…

My love for orchids and Julian’s blunt speaking style naturally made harsh words spill out of my mouth.

“Ha-ha, is that so?”

Despite the discourteous tone, Tenellon accepted the comment with a pleasant demeanor.

“Julian, I really like your personality. You don’t sweet-talk to please me like other bishops.”

While Tenellon’s mouth smiled, his eyes shone with a sharp intensity.

“Considering your character, I was quite surprised by this incident.”

‘What, what?’

I flinched internally.

“Black Knight…. I never expected you would act…”

As the name ‘Black Knight’ escaped his lips, it felt as if something heavy had dropped onto my chest.

It seemed that Tenellon was saying something, but my ears only caught the words “Black Knight.”

Swallowing nervously, I looked at Tenellon, who spoke so naturally.

‘Does he know…?’

I tried to control my entire body to not react to his words, but a slight, almost imperceptible tremor was inevitable.

The possibility that he might know every action I had taken so far loomed over me.

In the worst-case scenario, I would have to cross swords with Tenellon here and desperately escape, only to be pursued by the members of the Dawn Society outside.

No, perhaps even escaping this place could be problematic.

The members of the Dawn Society, including the ‘Monsignors,’ were stationed around the greenhouse.

And with Tenellon, the strongest force of the Dawn Society present, it complicated things further.

‘Did I come here for nothing…’

Trying to calm my pounding heart, I looked at Tenellon without betraying any emotion.

“Whether the damage caused by the ‘Black Knight’ is great or small, he is an unforgivable enemy for interfering with our affairs at the Dawn Society.”

“Of course, Sir Tenellon. We cannot allow ‘him’ to continue causing trouble.”

Tenellon’s eyes, which briefly sparkled at my answer, then returned to inspecting the terrible orchid.

While watching his words and actions closely, I pretended to agree with him.

At the same time, I subtly moved my right hand to the side, ready to draw my sword at a moment’s notice.

‘Ugh.’

I must have touched a wound on my side, a lingering injury from my encounter with Pintel at ‘Dusk Flame.’ It hadn’t fully healed yet.

While I might be able to escape from ordinary Monsignors or bishops without trouble, a battle with Tenellon was a different matter altogether. What if it came to that…?

I calculated the shortest and best route for escape in my head, but…

It’s going to be tough.

‘Damn, this is going to be really hard.’

Impatience began to rise within me.

‘Should I strike first?’

While I was entangled in various thoughts, Tenellon leisurely continued looking at me and spoke.

“But I never would have guessed that you would have investigated the Black Knight first…”

Uh, what?

“Indeed, there would be no other reason for someone as fastidious as you to venture into those filthy slums.”

A series of incredulous statements.

‘…Really?’

Confusion showed in my reaction, causing Tenellon to tilt his head in puzzlement.

Missing this moment could be deadly.

A voice echoed faintly in the back of my mind.

“Hehe, I was careful not to be caught, but the information capabilities of the Dawn Society are indeed impressive.”

“Indeed, who else could have known?”

Chuckling briefly, Tenellon continued.

“Would you have imagined that the ‘Black Knight’ who stirred up the system belongs to one of the gangs ruling the slums, the ‘Nameless Gang’?”

What? What kind of nonsensical talk is this?

Despite the confusion filling my mind due to Tenellon’s words,

“Hehe, indeed, your capabilities are beyond estimation, Sir Tenellon.”

My tongue was already fueling this misunderstanding.

“The fact that you went to the slums to investigate personally means you knew this before I did… When did you find out?”

Now! Just now! 

I only knew because you told me.

“I too only found out recently. It was not long ago that I had the members of ‘Closed Eyes’ secretly investigate the ‘Black Knight.'”

“Really? Indeed, the imperial intelligence is impressive! Hahaha!”

Tenellon laughed loudly. Seeing him like this, I almost wanted to laugh as well.

Are you… foolish?

***

The Nameless Gang from the slums, claiming to be the ‘Black Knight.’

I can somewhat guess why.

Though they claim to divide the slums, they are a weaker force compared to other organizations.

Unlike ‘Six Fingers,’ which profits from human trafficking, drugs, gambling, or ‘Blood Fiend Clan’ that capitalize on connections with high nobility, they barely make ends meet.

Just an awkward organization relying solely on minor force.

It seems they spread the rumor to gain some fame as the ‘Black Knight.’

Certainly… the fact that they cover their faces does give them something in common with the ‘Black Knight.’

The masked noble who fought against the aristocrats’ tyranny at ‘Dusk Flame’ claims to be the ‘Black Knight.’

‘Not a bad choice.’

They use their identity, ‘anyone can be a member of the Nameless Gang,’ to absorb rumors and protect themselves.

Being the weakest, it’s a quite reasonable strategy.

The problem is that the noble causing trouble at ‘Dusk Flame’ is no ordinary noble.

‘They’re entangled with the Dawn Society.’

Thus, the position of the Nameless Gang has become quite precarious.

No, it will become precarious.

—

‘The Nameless Gang, those trash, will need to be dealt with soon.’

Since Tenellon wishes for the extermination of the Nameless Gang.

‘Really, they should have been more cautious before getting involved.’

Such unlucky fellows.

‘In my case, is it actually a good thing?’

Even if they die bearing the name ‘Black Knight,’ the name won’t disappear.

Instead, the focus on the ‘Black Knight’ will consolidate, making it easier for me to operate.

After all, I must disrupt the Dawn Society’s activities to prevent the resurrection of the demon.

“Sir Julian.”

Returning to the duties of ‘Closed Eyes’ after meeting Tenellon in the greenhouse, I noticed Odwin standing at the entrance.

A woman of small stature for an adult.

One might doubt her ability to lead ‘Closed Eyes’ effectively, but her fearlessness in the face of ‘Julian’ qualifies her for the role of ‘leader.’

“Perfect timing. Though it will likely be ignored as usual, I still need to ask for your opinion.”

Speaking formally, she pulled a small scroll from her pocket.

The unusual atmosphere and the luxurious surface of the scroll piqued my curiosity.

“Please take it.”

As she handed me the scroll with elaborate patterns, I took it and untied the string to check the contents.

“An invitation.”

“Yes, and it’s an invitation to the birthday of Arba Godric, the eldest son. The Godric family has requested that Julian, as the representative of ‘Closed Eyes,’ attend.”

The Godric family.

As the name popped up, my mind flashed back to a woman I had seen at the ‘Dusk Flame.’ She was the epitome of an aristocrat, filled with authoritative demeanor and a belief in her superior status—a rude woman.

“Why would they invite me to the eldest son’s coming of age ceremony?”

It didn’t make sense. A child’s birthday, especially the ‘eldest son’s’, would not generally include someone like ‘Julian’ in the guest list for the sake of maintaining a certain atmosphere.

It felt like a setup for trouble.

“It’s odd, isn’t it? If it’s about representing ‘Closed Eyes,’ it should be you, Leader Odwin.”

Frankly, attending was a hassle, and I didn’t want to get tangled up in any incidents. Moreover, not fully understanding the intent behind the ‘invitation,’ I subtly probed Odwin.

“It’s brazen, really. You, who loves to boast, surely wouldn’t think so. I am well aware that I am just a figurehead leader.”

She looked at me with half-open eyes.

“Moreover, the Godric family is the only one among the four major families that thinks favorably of you, right?”

Strange. Why would ‘Julian’ be viewed favorably by them? There must be a reason.

“Thanks to your purge of the Hyranse family, they were able to monopolize the Hundred Points Shop, which had been intricately involved with that family.”

That would explain it.

“But does it matter? You wouldn’t attend such social parties anyway.”

As if expecting ‘Julian’s refusal, she looked at me.

It seemed ‘Julian’ had never participated in such invitations through ‘Closed Eyes’ before.

“That’s been the case so far. However, considering my position, which requires keeping an eye on the royal and noble preferences, it would be helpful if you could attend…”

“Understood. I’ll go.”

“See, it’s always like this…”

Caught off guard by my immediate response, Odwin seemed to sense something unusual and looked at me.

“Really?”

“If it’s a heartfelt request from Leader Odwin, I suppose I should attend at least once.”

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