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It is safe to say that there are almost no nobles who are unaware of the prestige held by the Empire’s Four Great Houses. Unlike the Crypart family, which values martial prowess, the Godrich family exerts a dazzling influence in politics and society. There’s even a saying that at a Godrich family social gathering, even a lion can be turned into a rabbit. For this reason, offending that family was the last thing any noble should do. If bad rumors spread, the noble or their family would have to bear the full brunt of the consequences.

However, in the game, the Godrich family never took such a prominent stance. They always operated from the shadows, manipulating events like puppeteers, so I hadn’t paid much attention to them. Meeting them like this now feels surreal. As I continue to navigate this world as if it were real, I have come to realize some hidden settings within the game. For instance, there is the setting where the eldest son of the Godrich family, Arba, admires me—no, admires Julian. Julian’s feelings for his mother are genuinely heartfelt, uncharacteristic for a villain.

I was unknowingly adapting to this world. 

“That’s the crest of the Godrich family…” I muttered to myself as I looked at the crest of the family I wished to avoid. Though I had grown accustomed to my habit of speaking to myself in polite speech, this time it felt strangely unfamiliar. It must have sounded like a threat to others.

“Indeed, the one you’re holding is one of the Godrich family’s children.” 

An imposing elderly man with a stern expression spoke up from inside the training grounds. Despite his neatly tied white hair, his robust physique suggested that he had wielded a sword in his younger days. 

‘That’s Orun Crypart,’ I realized.

Orun Crypart is the actual power behind the Crypart family and was once a renowned general who swept through the northern front. Though his past glory has faded, leaving him a grumpy old man, his intimidating build and swordsmanship remain. 

‘I can sense his aura… No ordinary knight could handle him.’

If only he would play Go in the background instead.

‘What an unpleasant fellow,’ I thought.

As you know, Julian despises most members of the Crypart family. This also influenced my view of Orun Crypart.

“Lord Orun, you seem to be in remarkably good health for your age,” I said.

“You…”

At my mocking words, Orun glared at me, his eyes widening. The murderous intent he radiated was palpable, but I hadn’t lived an ordinary life to be cowed by it.

“Let Yern Gore go.”

“Oh, so this is Sir Yern Gore?” I replied, feigning recognition, and looked at the person clutched in my grip, whose life was under threat.

‘Damn, it had to be a member of one of the Four Great Houses.’

There was nothing to be gained from provoking them. Moreover, the Godrich family had some interactions with me through Arba. 

‘There was no need to stir up trouble unnecessarily.’ 

However, because ‘Sombra’ overreacted, I had no choice.

Yern Gore, who had been groaning in pain, started trembling with fear as soon as our eyes met, his initial bravado gone. I understood why. The reflection of ‘Julian’ in his eyes must have seemed utterly sinister.

‘This damned face!’ 

A face that could terrify a crying child and make a cripple stand on their own two feet. In short, it had an overwhelmingly fearsome presence. But first, I needed to navigate this situation smoothly. Even though adding another negative mark to my reputation wouldn’t make a huge difference, it might hinder future plans.

With that in mind, I began looking for a way to calm Yern Gore down, trying to find some common ground. Building rapport was the best approach.

Let’s see, hmm?

“This sword… I can feel the touch of a master craftsman.”

Fortunately, I found it. I noticed the logo of ‘Dusk Flame’ on the scabbard he was wearing.

“It’s quite a fine item. I use their services as well.”

“Don’t tell me you managed to get a custom order!” 

What nonsense is this?

I recalled my previous visit to ‘Dusk Flame.’ When I had sought out Ruger Orland to repair the ‘Moonlight Sword,’ I had encountered a woman who might have been a concubine of the Godrich family.

‘This guy isn’t just a knight of the Godrich family…’

He’s a member of the family? Even with bad ties, this is too much of a coincidence.

Just as I was about to let out a mirthless laugh at the absurdity of it all, Yern Gore sensed my grip loosen and struggled desperately to break free.

[Sombra responds to hostility.]

This guy! Again!

With no other choice, I decided to take the cleanest and simplest approach.

“Ah…!”

I applied strong pressure to his carotid artery. He held on for a moment but soon rolled his eyes back and lost consciousness.

Given his unsightly face, quite unbecoming of a member of the esteemed Godrich family, I instinctively closed his eyes for him. I thought I had maintained some boundaries.

“Y-you madman…”

“You’ve finally crossed the line, haven’t you!”

The knights guarding Orun and those from the Crypart family berated me.

“Heh, heh heh…”

However, I didn’t flinch, instead responding to their scolding with mad laughter.

“What’s so funny?”

“Have you finally lost your mind?”

“I just find this situation amusing.”

There’s no turning back now after making Yern Gore Godrich faint. Yet the reason for it doesn’t seem justifiable in the current situation.

Of course.

If I said, “There’s a demon named ‘Sombra’ living in my body, and I had to subdue him before he went on a rampage. How about some gratitude?” who would believe me?

It would be more fitting for Julian to say, “Ah! I should have just killed him.”

So, I needed to think quickly and find a way to justify my actions.

“Sir Herand is the legitimate heir of the Crypart family. In contrast, Sir Yern Gore is the child of a concubine and not quite a legitimate heir.”

“What does that have to do with anything?”

“Isn’t it funny?”

Contrary to my words, this situation was incredibly troublesome for me. I had to rationalize my actions somehow.

“Those of you who hold me to a strict standard of blood purity are worried about a ‘half-blood’ getting hurt while ignoring what happened to the legitimate heir, Sir Herand.”

With that, I started laughing at everyone, chuckling mockingly.

“What nonsense are you spouting…”

Orun’s unpleasant voice pierced through the silence of the training grounds.

“Get out of the Crypart estate immediately. This place is not light enough for someone like you to step foot in.”

“When a mere member conducts the ‘Examination of Advancement,’ disregarding the rules, if that isn’t light, then what is?”

Orun’s eyes sharpened as I boldly stood up to his words.

“Or would you like to proceed with the ‘Examination of Advancement’?” 

I can take it instead of Sir Herand.

Orun could surely anticipate what would follow without needing to say more. 

As I spoke, I readied my sword. Normally, I would avoid confronting someone like Orun Crypart directly due to his immense power and unpredictable nature.

But it’s already spilt milk.

“Since Brother Herand seems to have difficulty even standing, I’ll entertain you in his stead, former Lord Orun.”

Moreover, my hatred for ‘Orun Crypart’ was as intense as it was the first time I saw ‘Oben.’ To the extent that I hoped he would accept my challenge so we could fight. 

‘If it comes to that, it certainly won’t end normally.’

At this moment… I could kill him. The blood boiling inside me was beyond my control.

“Tsk.”

Fortunately, yet disappointingly, Orun seemed to have no intention of continuing. He threw the wooden sword he was holding to a nearby knight and looked at the still fallen Herand.

“We’ll stop here for today. If you don’t change your mind by the next time, it won’t end like this. Be prepared.”

After issuing his warning, Orun straightened his clothes and gave me a fierce glare. The look in his eyes, which went beyond hostility to murderous intent, only made me smile.

‘Try anything.’

Unlike before, Orun Crypart’s actions no longer frightened me. I had enough confidence in my own strength, and if things got tough, I could always rely on the power of the ‘Dawn Society.’

Thinking this made me feel like I was becoming a villain.

“Brother Herand!”

As Orun left, Joshua rushed out to support Herand. Herand, who was in terrible shape, was in no condition to be questioned about the soul stone I entrusted to him.

“What are you doing? Hurry up and take Brother Herand to his room!” 

At Joshua’s urgent shout, the servants came running, lifted Herand, and started to carry him out of the training grounds.

“Brother Julian.”

As Joshua was about to leave the training grounds, he called out to me and cautiously looked back.

“Thank you…”

He awkwardly expressed his gratitude before following Herand. 

To think I would hear such words. Maybe I’m not such a bad guy after all.

I shrugged and followed them. Joshua gave me a puzzled look, as if wondering why I was following.

Why are you coming along? his eyes seemed to ask.

Well, I have some business with Herand too.

***

“Ugh… Ugh…”

“Brother Herand, are you alright?”

As Herand groaned in pain, slowly regaining his senses, Joshua quickly got up and checked his condition.

“Yes, I’m fine. Phew. I’m still alive.”

At Herand’s assurance, Joshua sighed in relief.

“Where is Julian…?”

Having come to his senses, Herand began looking for Julian. Even while barely conscious, he seemed to have noticed Julian’s presence.

“He mentioned having some business and left the estate for a bit.”

“He must have gone to see Lady Milena’s grave.”

Hearing the unfamiliar name, Joshua looked slightly puzzled.

“Lady Milena… isn’t she Brother Julian’s mother?”

“Yes, that’s right… ugh.” Herand endured the pain as he sat up in bed.

“Come to think of it, Joshua, you’ve never met Lady Milena, have you?”

“No, I’ve only heard… no, I haven’t even properly heard about her.”

Her name was almost taboo, as Orun hated her with a pathological intensity.

“But, as Grandfather said, is it true that Lady Milena was from the North?”

“Yes, it’s true.” Herand’s confirmation made Joshua a bit uneasy.

The northern region of the Rosenda continent. The place where the Demon Lord Barbatos first appeared and where he was finally killed. Consequently, that place was still swarming with demons, and even after the Demon Lord’s death, his lingering thoughts spread like a cancer, turning the land into an uninhabitable wasteland. 

The people living in the northern part of that continent were so despised and uncivilized that they hardly fit the category of ‘humanity.’

“The fact that Lady Milena is from the North makes you uncomfortable, doesn’t it?”

“Though I haven’t seen it with my own eyes, I’ve heard they sustain themselves by consuming demonic energy.”

Just the thought of eating demons made Joshua feel nauseous from his core. It reminded him of the time he saw a man transformed into a demon by the ‘Replica Horn’ at Julian’s estate, oozing slime.

Eating those things? It was unimaginable.

“I don’t know exactly what the North is like, but I can tell you this.”

“What do you mean?”

“Lady Milena was much more noble than someone like me and far from what you’d call a ‘savage.'”

“Brother, what does that have to do with earlier?” Joshua questioned Herand’s earlier words.

“I couldn’t understand what you were saying just now. Wouldn’t it have been better to at least outwardly agree with Grandfather?”

Herand turned his head to look directly into Joshua’s eyes. He knew it too. The stubbornness he displayed in the training ground was foolish enough to be called obstinate. But the guilt that had been growing in his heart swelled up like mold as time passed.

“When Lady Milena passed away, it was Orun, the then head of the family, who forced Julian to place her body in the coffin and bury her in the grave.”

“What? What do you mean…”

To the horrified Joshua, Herand recounted Julian’s childhood.

Julian, much younger than Joshua now, was treated worse than a servant in the family. Despite that, he endured bravely, beyond his years.

—

“My mother was strict with me.”

Julian, who never shed a tear despite the harsh treatment from those around him.

“But the coffin that held my mother… it couldn’t have been so light.”

Though despised, the child who was always cheerful felt sadness for the first time. Tears filled his eyes and streamed down his cheeks, yet he continued to hold them back. 

That image deeply moved Herand and etched itself into his memory forever.

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Joshua couldn’t understand it no matter how much he thought about it.

No matter what happens to Herand, it shouldn’t matter much.

“Damn, why did I lie?”

Orun’s usually stern and sharp eyes had something chilling in them this time.

A strong killing intent.

Sensing that this ominous feeling was directed at ‘Herand’, Joshua had instinctively lied.

‘Grandfather particularly hated Herand…’

Orun holds more power than the current head of the family, Joshua’s father.

He is the de facto head of the family and the chairman of the council of nobles, wielding immense power that even the top nobles bow to.

Defending Herand, who fell out of Orun’s favor, is absolutely forbidden.

Joshua knows this. He knows, but…

“I think he was here until a moment ago, but I don’t know now. He might have gone out.”

“Is that so? Hmm…”

Orun sighed at Joshua’s words that he didn’t know where Herand was.

“If he comes to the mansion, I will contact you directly, grandfather.”

Smiling, Joshua decided to continue lying to send Orun away.

Even if his grandfather entered the mansion and found Herand, he could claim he ‘didn’t know.’

“Haha, my dear child.”

Orun grasped Joshua’s shoulder.

In his prime, Orun was a renowned knight, and his hand was twice the size of Joshua’s.

“So, Herand is in the mansion?”

Orun’s eyes glinted as he tightened his grip on Joshua’s shoulder.

‘Ugh.’

The pain was excruciating, but Joshua tried not to grimace and looked at Orun with an innocent expression.

“You didn’t treat the first and second sons like brothers, but you always called Herand ‘Brother’.”

Orun’s sharp remark made Joshua flinch.

‘Damn, he caught on.’

He knew too.

When he was young, if Herand hadn’t helped him with a certain matter, he wouldn’t have received Orun’s favor like now.

“Ugh…”

As the pain intensified, Joshua eventually groaned.

But Orun, indifferent, only increased the pressure on his shoulder.

“He suggested in the recent family meeting that Julian be accepted as a legitimate member of the family, dropping the ‘Frason’ title.”

He knew. He was there.

“That’s absolutely unacceptable. Thinking such a thing, let alone saying it in a public setting.”

It was actually Joshua who brought up the topic.

He was about to say so, but Orun’s grip stopped him.

It felt like a silent command not to utter it.

“Oh, Chairman Orun.”

Herand, who had appeared without Joshua noticing, called out to Orun.

Although he was addressing his grandfather, Herand used his title instead, which made Joshua feel sorry for him. But as the pressure on his shoulder eased, he felt relieved.

If his brother hadn’t shown up, his shoulder might have been crushed.

Given how Orun treated Joshua, such a thing wouldn’t happen, though.

Orun’s glance back was sharp as ever.

“Herand, I heard about what happened at the family meeting.”

“……Yes.”

“Despite knowing how I, and the public, perceive Julian, you still uttered those words, didn’t you?”

Herand hesitated at Orun’s oppressive tone.

Already lacking the confidence to assert himself, Herand often heard people say, “Isn’t Herand from the collateral line, not Julian?”

Standing before Orun, Herand looked like a powerless animal.

“But, Chairman Orun, Julian no longer commits indiscriminate acts or tarnishes the family’s honor like in the past…”

“Herand!”

Startled by Orun’s thunderous voice, Herand flinched. Joshua, standing nearby, also jumped.

“I never intended to solve this with words, but I can no longer tolerate your behavior!”

Orun’s eyes blazed with fury.

“Herand, I will now commence the ‘Examination of Advancement.’ Follow me to the training ground immediately!”

***

The ‘Examination of Advancement.’

In the past, when Orun Crypart was the head of the family, this test was a form of training to find the family’s legitimate successor through a duel.

Although Orun no longer had the authority to conduct this test, no one could stop him.

Even Oben, the current head, wouldn’t be able to stop Orun now.

Strictly speaking, it was a grandfather disciplining his grandson for tarnishing the family’s honor.

Joshua sensed that this was not a simple ‘test’ but a ‘warning’ and ‘discipline.’

Discipline that involved broken bones and torn flesh.

Thwack! Thud!

“Ugh…”

Herand’s groans of agony filled the training ground.

“Get up.”

Orun’s eyes remained cold as he watched Herand endure the pain on the ground.

Before becoming the head of the family, Orun was a knight with a reputation equivalent to a ‘Sword Saint.’

He was also a great general who left his mark on the history of the northern front and an excellent swordsman whose body hadn’t significantly weakened despite the ravages of time.

“Cough, cough…”

“I told you to get up!”

Thud!

As Orun’s kick landed on Herand’s solar plexus, the sound of air escaping his lungs echoed.

Seeing Herand cough up blood, Joshua couldn’t help but close his eyes.

Despite inheriting the Crypart family’s robust physique, Herand’s weak spirit and lack of sword training meant his body couldn’t withstand Orun’s assaults.

‘Brother Herand…’

The test was conducted with a blunt wooden sword, not a sharp real sword, but even a wooden sword could kill.

Moreover, since Herand couldn’t use ‘Aura,’ each strike from the wooden sword was even more lethal.

“I told you to get up!”

Thud!

Orun swung the wooden sword mercilessly at Herand.

‘I have to stop this.’

Seeing Herand coughing up blood, Joshua couldn’t bear to watch any longer.

He tried to intervene to stop his brother’s suffering, but…

‘Ugh.’

‘Ugh.’

His feet wouldn’t move easily.

The central power of the Crypart family.

In fact, Orun wielded more power than their father.

‘Denying such a grandfather…’

It was like turning his back on the family’s protection.

Conflicting emotions battled within him as he heard Orun’s voice.

“Herand, I’ve never liked your pathetic demeanor. You’re too scared to even hold a sword and you can’t socialize properly with other nobles, you idiot!”

Joshua bit his lip hard.

“The first and second sons may not be suitable as the head of the family, but they were never as incompetent as you!”

Orun, who had been unleashing violence like a storm, looked down at Herand, who lay groaning on the ground.

“Well, have you changed your mind now? Do you still think we should strip Julian of the ‘Frason’ title?”

Violence was used to extract the desired answer.

How could this be called a ‘test’?

Yet, Joshua kept his mouth shut.

‘Brother Herand, you just need to say one word.’

Just say no.

“Oh, Chairman Orun…”

Trembling, Herand finally managed to speak.

His battered body was soaked with blood and sweat, and it was hard to find a spot that wasn’t bruised.

‘Just say it, brother.’

Say that Julian is still a tumor of the family.

“I, I still remember the day Lady Milena was buried…”

Contrary to Joshua’s expectations, Herand continued with a trembling voice.

Despite his body being on the verge of breaking, his voice and eyes held more strength than Joshua had ever seen.

“You made him dig the grave with those small hands and made him put Lady Milena in the coffin all by himself, didn’t you?!”

“Who would want to see or touch a barbarian from the north?!”

“She was not a barbarian; she was a citizen of the Empire… She just came from the north…”

Cough, cough.

A heavy silence fell over the training ground.

Orun’s guards, the mansion’s servants, and even Joshua sensed it.

Something terrible was going to happen.

“I was willing to let it go, but now I have no choice.”

The veins in Orun’s hand holding the wooden sword bulged.

At the same time, a bluish aura began to emanate from the tip of the sword.

Though faint, aura began to envelop the sword.

“G-Grandfather! How about stopping now?”

Joshua shouted instinctively, but Orun’s steps towards Herand didn’t halt.

‘I must stop this somehow.’

If he left it like this, he knew he would regret it, but his legs wouldn’t move.

Orun’s imposing presence was like a towering mountain; trying to stop him would only result in being swept away.

“Maybe if one of your arms or legs becomes useless, you’ll come to your senses…”

“Arrgh!”

At that moment, a scream from outside drew everyone’s attention.

“What is it?” Orun was the first to voice his curiosity.

Before the surrounding servants could check, the entrance to the training ground began to open.

Step, step.

An uninvited guest entered.

A man with a human face but a beastly heart.

A notorious figure who, despite the derogatory nicknames that sullied his name, exuded an air of dignity as he looked around.

“It seems I have arrived to see Brother Herand, but there were others here first.”

The man with squinting eyes quietly smiled and murmured.

His face bore a small smile.

That smile held…

Elegance and character.

Authority and order.

Prioritizing these values, he wore the ‘Frason’ label like a badge, mocking the seemingly virtuous Crypart family.

***

‘What on earth is going on?’

Seeing Herand rolling on the floor, beaten to a pulp, I couldn’t help but look troubled.

Something felt off.

As I was on my way to see Brother Herand in the training ground, a guard blocking the entrance had stopped me.

Usually, they wouldn’t react so sensitively.

‘Should I have not forced my way in?’

Knowing this, I should have just left when they told me to go back.

But it was too late now.

I had to resolve this, as ‘Julian’ would.

A tense silence settled over the training ground.

When I realized that everyone’s eyes were on me, I felt a pang of regret.

I should have come earlier or much later.

“Do you know where you are, you trash, showing your face here?”

Breaking the uneasy silence was a knight inside the training ground.

He didn’t seem to be one of the family’s knights but rather someone’s guard, approaching me with a clear look of discomfort.

‘Is he with the knight order? He seems skilled.’

Sensing the unusual atmosphere in the training ground, I decided to leave quickly.

But I knew I couldn’t leave without making an impact.

There were too many eyes watching, including Joshua.

Although I had leverage over him, I didn’t want to create a situation that disrupted the hierarchy.

‘If that knight comes closer and says something, I can pretend to leave reluctantly.’

Just as I was finishing that thought, the knight spoke.

“Get out of here at once. This is no place for someone like you…”

The knight didn’t stop with words but reached out his right hand to shove me.

Watching this unfold, I sensed something unusual was happening.

—

<Sombra> responds to hostility.

It counterattacks to protect your body.

—

Even though I hadn’t commanded it, ‘Sombra’ was ready to attack the approaching knight.

‘Damn it! Why is this happening!?’

Weakened by lingering thoughts and residual energy in the underground waterway, ‘Sombra’ was hypersensitive to hostility directed at me.

It couldn’t afford to become weak again, so, fortunately, it didn’t explode with its usual speed since it hadn’t fully healed yet, but if left unchecked, its true nature would be revealed in front of so many onlookers.

‘If that happens…’

The true identity of the Black Knight would be exposed as ‘me.’

That cannot happen.

I still have much to do.

Thinking quickly, I twisted the knight’s outstretched arm.

Crack.

“Argh!”

Caught off guard by the sudden move, the knight was easily subdued, but he quickly prepared to draw his sword with his other hand.

‘Not a chance!’

I kicked him, sending his scabbard flying from his body to the ground.

Then, to prevent any further actions, I pulled him close and choked him.

“Gah, gah…”

He struggled, choking for air.

It was a natural reaction to avoid suffocation, but ‘Sombra’ perceived it as resistance.

It was still poised to attack.

‘Damn it…’

At this point, there was no choice.

I drew the sword from its scabbard and aimed it at the knight’s neck. Only then did the struggling knight finally calm down.

The intense energy coursing through my body also subsided.

‘Good.’

It seemed ‘Sombra’ had finally relaxed.

“…What… what are you trying to do?”

Confused gazes from those around me pierced through.

From Orun to Joshua, everyone except the low-ranking servants was staring at me like that.

Why? Was subduing this knight such a shocking event?

I squinted my already narrow eyes further and glanced around before turning my gaze back to the captured knight.

‘Huh? He looks familiar…’

The emblem on his shoulder armor looked familiar.

It was the symbol of the ‘Godrich’ family, one of the four great families of the Empire, just like the Crypart family.

Huh? Huh?

Names from the Godrich family started flashing through my mind.

From a warrior comparable to a Sword Saint to several at Julian’s level.

Given the nature of the four great families that hold honor in high regard…

‘If it’s known that I threatened the life of a Godrich family knight…’

I’m screwed.

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“What is the problem?”

Due to its very human-like demeanor, I started treating ‘Sombra’ like a person. It slithered out of my body again and approached the soul stone of ‘Idel’ once more. Its desperate attempt to eat it was pitiful.

Thunk, roll,

The soul stone popped out of Sombra and ended up in the corner of the office. Did it really look like it spat it out disdainfully, or was that just my imagination?

“This is absurd.”

Sombra still couldn’t maintain its shape. The words “I’m doing this for your own good” almost escaped my lips, but I decided against it. After all, I wasn’t its parent. However, if I couldn’t use ‘Sombra,’ it would disrupt my future plans. It was my weapon, my shield, and the mask that concealed my identity.

“If it won’t eat the soul stone, what should I do… Hmm?”

As I turned my head absentmindedly, I noticed the soul stone of Idel that Sombra had spit out. The stone, which emanated a sinister aura, seemed to be stirring up even more demonic energy after passing through Sombra’s mouth.

“What the…”

I was slightly taken aback by the unusual reaction. As I approached, the ominous energy began to intensify. It wasn’t beyond my control, though. The ‘demonic energy’ was manageable thanks to the <Demon Lord’s Vessel> trait. When I picked it up, a more intense vibration resonated.

“It’s rejecting me.”

I instinctively understood that this soul stone was repelling me, or more accurately, ‘Julian.’ If it were an ordinary soul stone, I would have questioned why, but this was ‘Idel Hyrans’s’ soul stone. Being a survivor of a family destroyed by Julian’s hand, it was naturally filled with strong resentment.

‘Is the experience accumulated in life still influencing the soul stone?’

What a ridiculous notion.

‘Vengeance… even if not alive, then in death.’

Is that what this is about?

‘If it had such strong resentment, it wouldn’t have ended up as a small stone in my hands in the first place.’

My monologue was pointless. However, I couldn’t help but mock Idel’s soul, which couldn’t let go of its desire for vengeance even after becoming a stone. This was both my thought and Julian’s. The only difference was our approach. I sought methods other than becoming a demon, while Julian’s sinister nature led him to belittle others.

“This must be why Sombra is rejecting it.”

I put the soul stone back. It was useless to me and could become a problem if someone else saw it. Though I lost the opportunity to use Idel’s soul stone, it was just a stone; there would be another use for it someday.

“So, where should I find it?”

Mumbling to myself, I reached for the watering can I had left on the office table. It was time to water the plants.

—

As I was watering the orchids, I paused at a familiar name.

‘Angelica’

The one with particularly beautiful colors that grew well. I still couldn’t bring myself to throw away its name tag. Seeing the empty spot where the plant, which couldn’t be saved due to severely damaged roots, used to be, a bitter taste filled my mouth.

“Come to think of it…”

Angelica had died because of Joshua’s foolish actions.

To be precise, it was the wizard who invaded with him that caused it. Damn bastards. Anyway, I need to find a soul stone to heal Sombra.

‘Ah! The Crypart family has one.’

It was a keepsake from Julian’s mother, Milena. Although it’s currently entrusted to Herand, the third son of the Crypart family, the ownership of that item belongs to me. Since Idel’s soul stone is rejecting me, I should use that one instead. I decided to arrange a meeting with Herand as soon as possible.

Knock, knock!

As I continued to water the orchids, I turned my head at the sound of knocking. When I told them to come in, a familiar face entered. It was Razlot, a member of the Dawn Society and an apprentice of the ‘Closed Eye.’

“What is the current atmosphere in the royal palace?”

I called him to get a brief understanding of the internal situation of the palace. Aiden’s death wasn’t widely reported and was registered as missing, so I knew the palace had started an investigation accordingly.

“In the process, a brief hint of Sir Aiden’s human experiments was discovered, and it seems the Magic Tower is also cooperating in the investigation.”

“Mm.”

I let out a short groan. To have Aiden’s disappearance reported and the illegal experiments discovered so quickly… It seems Aileen has made her move. It would have been better if she had kept her mouth shut. Her stubbornness will only lead to unnecessary trouble.

“The Donnasiens must be in a tough spot too. To have the head of the family involved in such matters, and now he’s missing. What a headache.”

When I let out a short laugh, Razlot’s face turned into a strange expression, unable to laugh or cry, with the color of ‘fear’ swirling above his head.

“Y-Yes, indeed.”

“But Razlot, there’s something I’m curious about.”

“Yes, feel free to ask.”

“I’ve heard that the ‘Closed Eyes’ has been tailing the Dawn Society recently. Is that true?”

“Ah…”

Razlot let out a short sigh.

“I heard it secondhand, but it’s a bit suspicious that I, as a member of the ‘Closed Eyes,’ am unaware of it.”

This is a very important issue. ‘Julian’ is the figurehead of the ‘Closed Eye,’ yet they are investigating the Dawn Society without reporting anything to me? I must also consider the possibility that the palace suspects me as part of the Dawn Society and has excluded me from the investigation.

“Actually, there is an investigation, but it’s not that extensive, so I guess Captain Godwin didn’t mention it.”

Hmm, I see. Although I’m the ‘face’ of the organization, Godwin Balladir is still the captain of the ‘Closed Eye.’

“Besides, the Dawn Society is not an organization that’s widely known.”

“Madmen who dream of the resurrection of the Demon God, they deserve to be ostracized.”

At my harsh criticism, Razlot gave an awkward smile and looked away.

“By the way, who is the member in charge of investigating the Dawn Society?”

“Pardon?”

“I’m just curious.”

It’s good to know the name at least. I don’t intend to sell out the ‘Closed Eyes,’ but didn’t Archbishop Tenellon personally express doubts about who was involved in this matter?

“It’s Fern. The knight who was previously with the Azure Lion Knights.”

“Hmm…”

Fern, huh? That’s problematic. Since he has some reputation within the ‘Closed Eyes,’ the Dawn Society might have put surveillance on him too.

Well, he used to be a member of the Azure Lion Knights, so he do know a thing or two about protecting himself.

But even if he investigate the Dawn Society, how is he going to uncover the deep, dark secrets hidden within it?

There’s a risk to his safety since all kinds of nobles are involved.

For example, there’s no word about the Dawn Society being connected to the recent incident in Aiden.

This shows just how influential the Dawn Society is in the Empire.

“If Fern shows any strange behavior, please stop him.”

“Would someone from the Azure Lion Knights listen to an apprentice like me?”

“Then say it was my order.”

With that, Razlot nodded in agreement.

Even if he doesn’t listen to the apprentice, he’ll listen to me.

After all, I’m the superior officer.

‘When an order is given, they have to follow it.’

It’s a saying knights love.

***

Reflecting on what had happened with Korund, Joshua fell into deep thought.

‘To think that Mr. Korund would have such a strong reaction… Although I don’t know the exact cause, I have a rough idea.’

It was when the name ‘Julian’ was mentioned that he reacted that way.

No matter how much Korund covets the support of the Crypart family and the backing of the noble council, it can’t compare to the infamy of that heartless man.

As Joshua walked down the mansion’s corridor, he peeked into the drawing room, attracted by the commotion.

“Brother Euphat, just how much did you drink last night?”

“Ugh… Shut up and bring me some water.”

Inside, Euphat, the second eldest, was suffering from a hangover and conversing with the third brother, Herand.

“What an idiot,” Joshua thought as he clicked his tongue at Euphat and saw Herand’s troubled face before heading back to his room.

‘Damn it, why does Brother Herand always defend that guy?’

The more Joshua thought about it, the more he resented Herand, who had defended Julian at the previous family meeting.

Herand, the third son, was never mentioned as a candidate for the head of the family and didn’t even show much interest in the position.

Despite this, Joshua had treated him with respect as his elder brother, but all he got in return was Herand’s support for Julian.

“Ugh… whatever.”

Joshua wanted to curse to release the frustration in his heart but sighed instead, remembering Orun’s order to refrain from using vulgar language as a future successor of the family.

Even though he wanted to, Joshua couldn’t speak ill of Herand.

After the eldest and second brothers strayed from the family, Herand had worked diligently as a member of the Crypart family.

Joshua couldn’t bring himself to criticize him, especially since he still remembered the sight of Orun, the grandfather, beating Herand while cursing him.

Herand was only trying to do his best for the family.

“Brother must have his reasons… right?”

Just then, Joshua noticed the mansion becoming busier.

He looked outside to assess the situation.

The Crypart family is one of the four great families.

Though they live a relatively modest lifestyle compared to the other great families, they still own an enormous mansion befitting their noble status.

If such a large mansion was bustling, it meant someone very important had arrived.

Quickly dressing, Joshua ran to the entrance.

Then, a carriage adorned with the emblem of the Crypart family in gold and bearing the mark of the “Noble Council” came into view.

Creak!

The door opened, and a stern, elderly gentleman with a stubborn look appeared. Joshua greeted him with a bright smile and a respectful bow.

“Grandfather Orun!”

He deliberately raised his voice a tone higher than usual. Knowing this always pleased his grandfather, he gave a sly smile.

“Oh, my dear puppy!”

The former head of the Crypart family, Orun, was getting out of the carriage. 

As soon as he saw Joshua’s face, his stern expression began to melt into a broad smile.

“How did you know I was coming? I didn’t send any word ahead since it was a sudden visit!”

“Oh, do I really need to be told when you’re coming, Grandpa?”

“You rascal, listen to how you talk! Come here and give me a hug, my dear boy!”

“Oh, come on, I’m not a kid anymore.”

Joshua’s gentle refusal, accompanied by a small laugh, made the coachman and the servants tense up slightly. Orun was known for his authoritative nature within the family. Joshua knew this well but instead smiled even more and took a step further.

‘He allows a little challenge to his authority, but only from those he likes.’

Joshua wasn’t sure if Orun saw it as a challenge, but he played along with his grandfather’s personality.

“Ha ha ha, looks like my dear boy has grown up!”

‘Just as I thought.’

Joshua smiled inwardly. His strategy had worked.

“But, where are the others? Only my youngest, Joshua, is here to greet me?”

“Euphat and Herand are here, but…”

“Those useless bastards.”

Orun’s tone instantly turned cold, unlike when he was speaking to Joshua, making him flinch.

“Anyway, Herand is inside, right?”

“Yes.” Joshua was about to answer but hesitated when he saw Orun’s eyes. 

A spark that looked ready to explode was flickering in Orun’s eyes. Joshua instinctively sensed it.

“Uh, umm…”

A peculiar sense of unease crept over him, making him think, ‘Something might happen to Brother Herand today.’

“I just returned from finishing my business at the academy, so I’m not really sure. I don’t get along very well with my brothers.”

Joshua lied because of this uneasy feeling.

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Looking down from the high cliff, only the dark abyss awaited below. The sight sent chills down my spine. If one survived a fall from such a height, they would surely be akin to the sun god Solarun or the demon god Barbatos.

“Hoo…”

I took a step back from the edge of the cliff. Seeing the slimy substance trickling down the ground where I had just been standing made me chuckle. It seemed they had been experimenting non-stop. To collect this much residual spirit…

I glanced down. My clothes weren’t some garish fluorescent or pink outfit but rather a coat that adhered to a semblance of normalcy. Thanks to that, while I couldn’t say I ‘liked’ it, it was at least at the level of ‘acceptable for a human being.’ However, the residual spirit had damaged it here and there.

‘It’s not something I treasure, but it was a luxury item among luxury items. This is annoying.’

I still couldn’t understand the fashion sense of someone who adored anything labeled as ‘luxury,’ regardless of personal taste.

‘Why am I still fine despite being covered in residual spirit?’

Aiden’s final move had been a surprising trump card even to me. The resentment and toxicity harbored within the ‘spirit’ were potent. Just coming into contact with it would warp an ordinary person’s mana pathways, contort their body, and corrupt them from within, turning them into a demon or, worse, a frenzied demon.

A system message I hadn’t noticed earlier appeared in the corner of my vision.

[The attribute <Vessel of the Demon Lord> has protected you from contamination.]

So that’s why. Reading the message once, I vaguely understood why I was unharmed. If I had known for sure, I wouldn’t be spouting nonsense about ‘self’ or such. It was the rambling of someone who didn’t even know the ‘phi’ in ‘philosophy.’

“I must not let my guard down to prevent this from happening again… Hm?”

Why was I suddenly using formal speech? Shouldn’t the character of ‘Black Knight’ take precedence over formal speech?

“Ugh…”

As I groaned and held my head, I realized why. The mask had cracked. It was cracked enough that I could feel the skin beneath it.

“What the hell is happening to this thing?”

The mask made of ‘Sombra’ was no longer maintaining its previous hardness. Some parts of the ‘Sombra’ had already started falling off, becoming more like mud, and were being absorbed into my shadow.

[Sombra has protected your body from demonic energy.]

[Sombra is undergoing reconstruction.]

On closer inspection, Sombra had deployed a thin layer over my skin to shield it from the residual spirit. Even so, it was strange. No matter how much of a villain’s fate I bore as the <Vessel of the Demon Lord>, it shouldn’t have been able to prevent physical damage from the residual spirit.

‘This thing is definitely alive.’

Since feeling a threat to my life in the Holy Nation, I’ve had this thought. It acted on its own to protect me, even though I hadn’t commanded it. It seemed it acted independently to protect its own life, though.

‘Still, it’s a selfishness that helps.’

Though the weakened Sombra would heal over time, I had no idea how long that would take.

Quick recovery method.

‘I know one.’

One of the ways a demon heals wounds is through “cannibalism.” But no matter how crazy someone might be, who would eat a demon? Except for the ‘northern barbarians,’ there’s probably no one who would do such a thing.

‘Ugh.’

Just the thought of putting that slimy body in my mouth made me feel nauseous. Even Julian, who disliked many things, seemed to shudder at the thought.

‘I have no choice but to use the soul stones to heal slowly.’

Although it wouldn’t be as revolutionary as “cannibalism,” it would still shorten the recovery time. Fortunately, I had some extra soul stones. I obtained them from the Holy Nation.

Now that the situation was under control, should I head back to the mansion and prepare? I need to be ready for whatever happens next…

“Sir Black Knight?”

As I was trying to clear my head, I heard Aileen’s voice. I almost instinctively turned my head naturally.

‘Darn it!’

My mask was damaged by the residual spirit. I stopped myself just in time before I turned my head without thinking. My face was exposed, and if I spoke, formal speech would surely slip out.

“Ugh…”

At that moment, I heard a startled voice from behind. She must have discovered the residual spirit on the ground.

“Where is Lord Aiden?”

Considering the person she had been fighting with for a while had disappeared, it was a natural question. Because of the foggy smoke created by the residual spirit and Sombra, Aileen couldn’t see the situation clearly and kept asking questions.

I wanted to answer her.

‘Ugh…’

I realized the formal speech was about to come out again, so I couldn’t open my mouth recklessly. What should I do? I couldn’t speak, and I couldn’t turn my head. In this frustrating situation, I resorted to the universal language of body language.

Swoosh.

I pointed towards the cliff with my hand.

“I see.”

Even though it was a simple gesture, she seemed to understand, and I heard a bitter voice from behind. Meanwhile, the mask made of Sombra started to slide off my face.

Splatter.

As the slimy Sombra hit the ground, it echoed through the underground.

“Blood… Are you hurt?”

No, don’t come closer. Don’t come any closer! To stop her from approaching, I raised my sword without turning around and pointed it at her.

“If you’re hurt, you need treatment! There’s demonic energy swirling around here!”

She’s saying the demonic energy could seep into the wound and make it more dangerous, but…

‘No, you’re more dangerous than the demonic energy.’

In front of me was a cliff, behind me was Aileen. I couldn’t reveal my identity. Damn it! I’m in a tight spot.

“Come out quickly! The amount of residual spirit is increasing!”

Just as she said, the amount of residual spirit leaking from the hole in the ceiling was growing.

“I can’t understand this. Really! I’ll just come to you!”

No, don’t come!

Too startled, I opened my mouth reflexively.

“No need…”

Formal speech was about to slip out.

“Ugh!”

I bit my tongue to stop my treacherous mouth from moving.

Although I stopped speaking, even the Sombra wrapped around to conceal the Moonlight Sword began to lose its shape. 

Please… Why are you doing this to me? 

In a hurry, I sheathed the resplendent jeweled sword to hide it and took a step towards the cliff. 

‘If this place connects to the dam, then there must be a passageway below… There it is!’

“Wait, what are you doing…!”

As I prepared to jump off the cliff, I heard Aileen’s bewildered voice. I must look like a madman. Even I couldn’t believe what I was about to do. Hastily, I sheathed the Moonlight Sword and jumped down. 

Catching the edge of a hole leading to another passageway below, I quickly slipped inside to escape.

“……!”

*** 

As Aileen approached the cliff where the Black Knight had fallen, she covered her mouth due to the stifling demonic energy and took a step back. 

He didn’t jump to his death. There must have been a reason for his decision. But why? 

Although she couldn’t be certain what the liquid that had splattered on the ground was, she suspected it was blood. 

“The wound looked deep, so why did he insist on escaping?”

I don’t get it. Until a moment ago, he didn’t avoid talking to me. 

“Did he flee because he was injured?”

He was someone who hid his identity enough to wear a mask all the time. Someone like that would likely distrust humans and would never show their vulnerability to others.

“Stubborn, really.”

When they encountered each other in the underground waterway, he even lowered his sword enough to give her trust despite pointing it at her. But in the end, she couldn’t gain any trust from him, which made Aileen feel unnecessarily irritated. 

After all, he’s just another person. 

Trying to clear her negative thoughts, she turned her gaze towards the cliff where the residual spirit was flowing. 

“Lord Aiden.”

She couldn’t get close, but she could tell it was incredibly deep. Although the Black Knight had jumped, she was sure he would somehow survive. But she had no such confidence in Aiden. 

With his frail wizard’s body, surviving in this deep place would be tough. 

Probably. 

*** 

After arriving at the mansion, I washed up with hot water and changed into suitable clothes. A servant informed me that a guest had arrived. 

When the door opened, a familiar face entered.

Korund?

“I-I apologize, Sir Julian!”

Without warning, he bowed his head and started apologizing. 

“Because Aiden returned midway, I couldn’t disable all the magical devices…!”

Although I sighed, I appreciated his honesty. It showed how much he feared Julian. 

“It’s fine. The matters I had planned were mostly ‘settled’ anyway.”

“Settled… you say?”

“Are you curious? I can tell you if you wish.”

At the mention of ‘settled,’ a look of ‘fear’ spread across Korund’s face. 

“N-No, thank you!”

“Raise your head, Korund. You did make an effort, after all.”

At my words, Korund cautiously lifted his head from the ground.

“Effort… So, you’re going to spare me?”

Whether to spare him or not, I had never really given Korund much thought in the first place. So why was he so terrified? Ah, Pintel…

“Whatever Sir Pintel might have said, it’s fine. We’re both Bishops, after all.”

“Th-Thank you…!”

In truth, leaving him terrified and unable to act might have been the best course, but I felt a slight twinge of pity. 

‘When I first saw him, he was definitely quite plump.’

Perhaps he had been so stressed that he lost his appetite, as he seemed a bit thinner now. A fear diet… it’s surprisingly effective, isn’t it?

“You’ve done well, Sir Korund. Now, would you please leave? I have some personal matters to attend to.”

“Understood!”

Korund nodded hurriedly, bowed politely, and left. It seems Bishops have been visiting the mansion quite often recently. Anyone would think I’m the Grand Archbishop or something.

…Should I give it a try?

***

After Korund left, I instructed the butler to ensure no one entered the office and to turn away any visitors. Then, I took out a small jewel box from the drawer. Inside was a soul stone.

It belonged to Idel, the Tri-horn demon who had driven me to the brink of death in the Holy Nation. 

‘If I feed this to Sombra, it should recover somewhat.’

The soul stone, a terrifyingly dark red, brought back unpleasant memories of being covered in residual spirit in the underground waterway, causing a slight aversion. It wasn’t the demonic power inside that repulsed me but a physiological aversion.

After all, it did ruin my clothes!

“But how do I give it to him?”

Should I put the soul stone in a bowl and tell Sombra to eat it? I was beginning to recognize Sombra as a kind of living creature, but that seemed too much like treating it as a pet. It’s not a companion demon, after all.

“Eat this.”

Placing the soul stone in my hand, I recalled how Sombra had absorbed it before and guided it to do the same. 

At that moment, Sombra, which had been dormant, began to stir. Indeed, a demon moves desperately when there’s something to eat.

Swoosh.

Sombra circled around the soul stone, prodding it as if inspecting it, then stopped and began to return to my body. It felt almost like it was pouting.

What the… Could it be…

“Are you being picky about your food?”

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