Chapter 55 THSK Vol. 2 Chapter 4 Part 2

4

The place they took me was swarming with more than twenty people—the sons of the anti-Princess nobles and their personal guards.

Every one of them had a sword at their hip and a vile smile on their face, making it painfully obvious they were eager to beat me to a pulp.

“We’re here, Sir Knight. This is your graveyard.”

“Thanks for coming along so quietly. Haha!”

“Alright. Let’s get this over with before someone sees. Hey! Is the lookout posted properly?”

The one who seemed to be the leader called out towards the path leading to the inner courtyard, but there was no reply.

“Hey! What’s wrong?”

“…I’m the one who’d like to ask what’s wrong. You scum!”

“—!”

Holding the lookout by the head with a viselike grip, veins bulging on his forehead, was the man who gave me trouble when I tried to cross into the Empire on the dragon.

“L-Linos…! Why are you here?!”

Linos von Gerreschiff. The second son of the leading pro-Princess noble house, and a man who was the very picture of an Imperial noble who loathed commoners.

“Hmph. I heard the cries of beasts who have forgotten their pride as nobles. I came to look, and it’s just as I thought. You… How dare you do something that stains the very history of the Empire.”

“Shut up, you! This has nothing to do with you!”

“Nothing to do with me? Don’t be absurd. I’m saying your behavior degrades the dignity of the entire Imperial nobility. Ganging up on a commoner to bully him? …Shame on you, you cowards.”

The argument was clearly going in Linos’s favor.

Still, it was surprising to see him acting like he was protecting me.

He hates commoners. That was my first impression of him… but maybe his elitism wasn’t as strong as I thought.

“Hey… commoner.”

“—Yes?”

“You’re just as bad. I don’t know if you’re getting cocky from being made a personal knight, but don’t just follow along without any caution. This is exactly why I hate commoners…”

Just as I was about to change my opinion of Linos, that last statement brought me right back. Nope, he definitely hates commoners.

As I processed that, a question popped into my head.

—Why did Linos show up here?

It’s far too convenient to be a coincidence.

“In any case, I cannot overlook the foolish act you are about to commit against this commoner. Be gone, quickly.”

“—! Just because you’re from a ducal house…”

“That’s right. I am the second son of the Gerreschiff ducal house. I hold a high position in this Empire. And at the same time, I am proud to be an Imperial noble. Unlike you cowards.”

Linos’s behavior was the same as I’d seen before. That overconfident expression, as if he believes without a doubt that he is more virtuous than anyone. If there’s anything out of place…

“…Magic?”

It’s just that I can feel the faint presence of magic surrounding Linos.

The others probably haven’t noticed. But I can.

This magic is the same type as the ‘Sight-Share’ magic Fadi used.

—I see. So that’s what this is.

I perfectly understood why Linos was here and why I was the only one who could sense the magic. This situation was created by Princess Valtrune. Which means she must have witnessed the anti-Princess nobles cornering me.

—What she wants isn’t a peaceful resolution.

“She wants me to cut loose… is that it?”

I whispered so quietly no one could hear, and my hand touched the hilt of my sword.

If I’m to follow her wishes, I need to beat these anti-Princess nobles senseless in front of Linos. But if I make the first move, it’ll look bad for me.

To make sure they are the ones who struck first…

“Lord Linos. You don’t need to worry.”

Right now, the most important thing is to act like a clueless, incapable commoner.

“What? What are you…”

“I wish to have a dialogue with them. Therefore…”

“Are you an idiot!? Don’t you realize you’ve been trapped?”

I met Linos’s shouts with a cold stare.

Of course I know what he’s saying, but if I acknowledge it, things won’t proceed smoothly.

—Don’t get in my way, you well-meaning aristocrat.

“—!”

Linos seemed to notice my intimidating gaze. He broke out in a cold sweat, his mouth twisting. I feel bad for brushing off his kindness, but I need him to let it go, just for now.

“…Lord Linos. I’ll be fine.”

“…Don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

He crossed his arms and leaned against a nearby tree.

“Hey, Linos. Does this mean you’re not getting involved?”

“The commoner himself refused my help. I’m not lifting a finger.”

“Heh. That works for us… Just stand there and shut up.”

Without any attempt to hide it, the leader drew his sword.

“…What do you think you’re doing?”

“You still don’t get it? Hah. What a slow personal knight. Listen up. You’re about to beg us for mercy. You’re going to grovel on the ground pathetically.”

The men around him also drew their swords one by one.

Mixed in with the anti-Princess nobles were several skilled fighters.

“Go on, draw your sword! We’re all going to enjoy watching you lose miserably!”

They urged me to draw, but I just smiled, my sword still in its scabbard.

“Hey, what’s your problem!”

“No problem. I just decided I don’t even need to draw my sword.”

“—! Don’t you mock us, you…!”

The blade that swung at me grazed my cheek. A thin line of red blood trickled quietly from the small cut.

“Ha. Does it hurt?”

I ignored his mocking tone and let out a deep breath.

—Alright. The stage is set.

“You made the first move. In that case, I won’t hold back.”

“Huh? What are you saying… Gofh!”

My sword was still in its sheath, but I swung it in a sharp arc. It connected with the man’s jaw with a dull, heavy thud. It’s not lethal, but it’s more than powerful enough to teach a fool a lesson.

I can’t exactly go around killing nobles, but this much should be forgivable. Above all, I’m the victim here. I was cut with a sword. No one can blame me for fighting back.

“Ugh… Gah!”

He clutched his head, blood streaming from his nose. A truly pathetic sight. But this only served to agitate the others.

“You bastard…”

“Don’t get full of yourself.”

“We’ll tear you to pieces!”

Hostile gazes focused on me from all sides.

“You guys. ‘Take good care’ of this personal knight for me.”

As soon as one of the anti-Princess nobles said that, they all drew their swords and rushed me at once.

“Hah!”

“Sei-yah!”

Their sword strokes are so laughably easy to read. It reminds me of my time on the battlefield, reeking of death. This situation is so lukewarm it’s almost funny.

I deflect their blades with minimal movement, countering the instant an opening appears.

“…How boring.”

“—!”

I twist my body, mixing in hand-to-hand combat to systematically deal with them one by one.

There’s not a single shred of excitement. My body just moves on its own, neutralizing these pitiful opponents. This is just work. They’re fragile insects I can crush without even thinking. In fact, it takes more concentration to not kill them than it does to beat them.

“Hiii! I’m sorry, I’m sorry!”

Just a few minutes. That’s all it took to put them in their place. They must not even have the energy to curse me anymore; they’ve all collapsed, trembling.

They lost their will to fight awfully quick, considering they’re the ones who started this.

—I just brushed off a spark that landed on me. Nothing more.

I picked up a sword that had fallen at my feet and tossed it toward one of the men, who was shaking and teary-eyed. The man’s eyes shot open at the metallic clatter.

“Pick it up. We’re not done.”

“P-pick it up…?”

“That’s right. You all started this little party. It’s only right that you take responsibility and see this through to the end, don’t you think?”

A flicker of genuine irritation wells up inside me.

“You all ganged up on me, Rune-sama’s personal knight. I won’t be satisfied until you’ve paid for that. Now, pick up the sword.”

They pointed their swords at me with the intent to hurt me. So, they can’t complain if I, in turn, instill the greatest possible fear into their hearts.

I’ll make it so they can never again even think of acting against Princess Valtrune or me.

“Come on, pick it up.”

“I can’t… I can’t!”

“If you won’t pick it up, then fine. I’ll take your life as compensation right here. It might be dishonorable for a noble to die without leaving any last words, but don’t hold it against me.”

“—Hic! I’ll pick it up! Please forgive me!”

Damned if he does, damned if he doesn’t. A defeated man on his knees has no choices. The others gathered around started to back away, terrified.

—But I have no intention of letting them off this easy.

“If you won’t come to me, shall I come to you?”

I send a sharp glare, and the air crackles. The stench of fear starts to rise, but I ignore it and raise my sheathed sword to the heavens.

That gesture sealed their fate.

“””W-We’re terribly sorry! Please forgive us!”””

They all drop to the ground, prostrating themselves. The fight has completely left them.

—Hah. Is this all they are?

The Empire’s soldiers. Its knights. Its nobles. Is this pathetic rabble all they amount to? They wouldn’t even last a second against the Provisional Elite Corps.

Ritziareite and the others in the Provisional Elite Corps are still inexperienced, and many of them are young. But almost none of them would surrender so quickly in the face of a strong opponent. They would, without a doubt, choose to fight to the death.

The Imperial army, led by elitist anti-Princess nobles. How many of them actually have any real skill?

Seeing this pathetic display, I find it impossible to believe they have the strength to take on the Kingdom’s army.

“Hmph… how pathetic.”

The man, his face twisted in humiliation, glares at me.

“I won’t forgive you. I’ll make you pay for this…!”

The loser’s empty words aren’t worth listening to.

This whole scene is being watched by someone through the ‘Sight-Share’ magic cast on Linos. Their aggression will be made public by Princess Valtrune.

“…Don’t think this is over.”

I turned my back to leave, but I felt an intense killing intent from behind me. It vanished just as quickly.

“Hey. What did you coat that sword with?”

The sword belonging to the man who was glaring at me with such hatred was now at my feet, kicked there by Linos. A strange, acrid smell wafted up from it.

“…Poison. You’re truly despicable.”

Did he think he could attack me from behind with a poisoned blade and land even a scratch? Ridiculous. An incompetent noble who can’t even hide his killing intent or master basic sword skills has no chance of killing me.

The man turned his sharp gaze on Linos and yelled.

“—! Linos, you bastard!”

“Silence.”

“Guh…!”

But Linos’s gaze was even colder, radiating a pressure that crushed the man as he stepped on his head.

“You truly are a fool. Not content with causing this commotion, you even resort to using poison to try and kill a personal knight…”

“Y-you said it too! You said you couldn’t stand that personal knight!”

“I did. But I can’t stand you despicable cowards even more. Don’t worry. You’re all finished, one way or another.”

“Huh?… What do you mean?”

A moment after Linos’s sneer, the sound of countless heavy footsteps echoed through the courtyard.

“Restrain these miscreants who dared to assault Lord Aldia!”

A flood of soldiers from the Provisional Elite Corps poured into the inner courtyard.

“Wh-What’s going on!?”

“I was ordered by Her Highness the Princess to watch and ensure this personal knight didn’t get into any trouble.”

“What!?”

Linos ignored the shocked man, his cold expression unchanging as he let out a sigh.

“…But there was no way Her Highness, in her wisdom, would entrust this task to me alone. The moment you harmed that man, your fate was sealed. You can await your punishment while regretting incurring Her Highness’s wrath.”

“—!”

The soldiers from the Provisional Elite Corps began restraining the anti-Princess nobles’ men with practiced, efficient movements.

“Hey, Al. You okay?”

“Steano… why are you here?”

Steano and Ambros were among those who had come to my aid.

“We were given orders from Lady Valtrune to rescue you.”

“Yup. That’s why we’re here.”

Steano said this, then looked at my cheek with a worried expression. He pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and pressed it to the cut.

“You’re injured, aren’t you? Are you really okay?”

“Yeah. It’s just a scratch. Nothing to worry about.”

“Don’t overdo it. A lot of people would be sad if you got hurt.”

I nodded at Steano’s words and looked around.

The restrained men were being led away one by one.

“Aldia. In any case, I’m glad you’re safe.”

“Yeah. Thanks for coming to help.”

Ambros gave me a small smile before turning to help restrain the remaining anti-Princess nobles.

“…Did Rune-sama plan this whole thing?”

“Huh? Weren’t you in on it with her, Al?”

“No. I didn’t know anything.”

—I had acted on a guess as to what she wanted, but this wasn’t a pre-planned event. There was no guarantee the anti-Princess nobles would even contact me in the first place.

Linos, still standing there with his arms crossed, also didn’t seem to know the full extent of Princess Valtrune’s plan.

“…Those guys won’t be causing any trouble for a while.”

“No, they won’t. I imagine they will receive a severe punishment, one that ensures they never approach Al again.”

“Rune-sama, and…”

Following Steano and Ambros, my beautiful white-haired liege appeared with the dignified Emperor in tow behind her.

“Your Majesty!”

The current Emperor, Grode von Felsdorf. His sharp, polished gaze was fixed straight on me.

“…Aldia Graetz, I presume.”

Hearing his deep, resonant voice, I immediately dropped to one knee.

“Yes. I am Aldia Graetz, Your Majesty.”

“I see. I witnessed the preceding conflict clearly. Your conduct as a personal knight was truly splendid.”

“You are too kind, Your Majesty.”

His gaze was still sharp, but at least he didn’t seem to have a bad impression of me.

“Valtrune. You have taken on a fine personal knight.”

“Yes, Father.”

Princess Valtrune also gave a graceful curtsy, and I could feel the space completely fall under Emperor Grode’s control.

He stroked his beard with his fingers, the corners of his mouth turning up slightly.

“Furthermore, the ‘Sight-Share’ magic used by your other man is also wonderful. To be able to see a distant scene so clearly… it is truly a unique magic.”

“Flegel, like Al, is also from the Kingdom. I recognized that the magic he wields is special. I did not want to let such talent go to waste, so I invited him to the Empire.”

“I see… which means your request to establish the Provisional Elite Corps was also…”

“—Yes. On the surface, I stated I wanted a loyal and powerful private force for my personal protection. But my true aim was to create an organization where talented individuals could shine. A place where those who deserve the spotlight can be active on the main stage—I wish to make the Empire a country full of such hope. I founded the Provisional Elite Corps with the belief that it could be the vanguard for that change.”

Princess Valtrune rattled off praises for the Provisional Elite Corps and for us without a hint of hesitation.

Grode nodded, looking pleased, and Princess Valtrune’s cheeks flushed slightly.

I understood her intent completely. This situation was created under the false pretext of exposing the anti-Princess nobles’ aggression to the Emperor. Her real goal was to demonstrate the value of the Provisional Elite Corps, and my value as her personal knight, to the Emperor.

“Father. What do you think of my loyal retainers?”

She had used the anti-Princess nobles’ predictable harassment of me to appeal to the Emperor that she was worthy of being his successor. And there was no way the wise Emperor didn’t understand her scheme.

Which means…

“Ah. Wonderful—I am now certain, Valtrune, that there is no one but you to succeed me.”

It means the Emperor himself wants Princess Valtrune to inherit the throne.

She didn’t prevent this problem to deny the anti-Princess nobles an opening; she intentionally orchestrated it.

—She used me as the perfect bait to lure out the rebellious faction and expose their own incompetence.

“Thank you for your gracious words.”

“There is no need for modesty. I am simply overjoyed to see my beloved daughter has grown so splendidly.”

This father and daughter are planning to systematically crush the faction opposing Princess Valtrune’s succession. The two royals create a harmonious, almost warm, atmosphere. Listening to their conversation with deathly pale faces are the anti-Princess nobles being led away.

—They probably never imagined that harassing a personal knight, just to mess with him, would lead to such a disaster.

“By the way, Father. That matter we discussed earlier…”

“Ah. The inspection in the Dyrst region, with the guests from other nations. I remember.”

“That’s good. And about the matter of succession…”

“I was hesitant when you first consulted me, but after seeing this, I see no reason to hesitate.”

“Then…”

“—Valtrune. Upon the successful conclusion of your inspection in the Dyrst region, I shall bequeath my throne to you! It is a great responsibility, but I am sure you can achieve it.”

As if they had planned it all along, the conversation flows inexorably in Princess Valtrune’s favor.

With Princess Valtrune, who knows the future years in advance, making a serious move to claim the throne, her opponents won’t be able to stop her easily.

“Thank you, Father. I will do everything in my power to ensure it is a meaningful inspection.”

After saying those words, Princess Valtrune took my hand.

“My personal knight appears to be injured, so if you will excuse us.”

“Ah… The next time we meet, it may be when you inherit the throne.”

“I pray for that as well.”

She gave a signal to the Provisional Elite Corps soldiers with her eyes.

They immediately fell into formation, flanking her on both sides without a single flaw.

“Then, good day.”

With an elegant bow, Princess Valtrune linked her arm with mine, and we left the inner courtyard.

The sound of armor clanking echoed through the castle. Walking with an entourage of countless soldiers, Princess Valtrune had clearly climbed another step on the stairs to the throne, and her figure now carried an air of authority that strongly resembled the current Emperor.

---

5

“Hey! Why did you let yourself get hurt on purpose?”

Princess Valtrune pouted, her fingers gently touching my cheek as she stared at me.

“My apologies. I thought that was the most efficient way.”

If I, her personal knight, had struck first, it would have reflected badly on her. Besides, we were being watched.

Normally, I wouldn’t show mercy to an opponent, but starting a bloodbath with the Emperor watching was out of the question.

“I apologize. I overstepped.”

“Don’t apologize. It was my fault, too, for not explaining. I just… I believed you would understand my intentions… Still, I never thought you’d take a blow like that instead of dodging it.”

She looked down sadly, but I believe my decision to take the first cut was the right one for that situation.

The fact that her personal knight was injured. That’s what gave her the upper hand in the negotiations for the throne.

Even if that weren’t the case, by making sure I only counter-attacked, I figured I wouldn’t be blamed for drawing my sword.

“Thanks to you, we were able to secure the promise of succession. But… I don’t want to see you get hurt.”

A warm, white light enveloped the cut, closing it. It was her healing magic.

“It was a shallow cut this time, so it’s fine, but… please stop sacrificing yourself like that, okay?”

“—Yes.”

It’s unheard of for a princess to personally heal her knight’s wounds.

She had dismissed all the Provisional Elite Corps soldiers, so it was just the two of us… or not. Which is why the jealous stares I was getting were so intense.

“Lady Valtrune. If you would be so kind?”

Linos’s soft voice spoke up as he placed a hand on my shoulder.

“Oh. You have something to talk to Al about, don’t you?”

“Yes. Alone, if possible.”

Beneath his calm tone, I could feel a cold, detached emotion directed squarely at me.

Princess Valtrune didn’t seem to notice. As soon as she finished healing me, she stood up.

“Thank you for earlier, Linos. Thanks to you watching, things didn’t get out of hand.”

“No. I didn’t do anything.”

Then he added under his breath, “Truly nothing…” in a frustrated-sounding voice.

His downcast silver eyes were wavering endlessly.

“Lady Valtrune. Your time…”

“Ah! You’re right. I have to go show my face to the Provisional Elite Corps. Well then, Al, I’ll see you later.”

At the reminder, she brushed her hair back, looking slightly flustered, and turned away from us.

I watched her wave cutely until she was gone, then brought my consciousness back to the awkward, prickly silence with Linos. The air turned sharp and uncomfortable.

“…We’re going for a walk, commoner.”

Linos spat the words out and started walking in the opposite direction from where Princess Valtrune had run off.

---

6

At first, I couldn’t stand his existence.

It was nauseating enough that a commoner was on such familiar terms with Princess Valtrune, but why, of all people, was that man chosen as her personal knight?

It took me a long time to understand.

—Aldia Graetz.

A commoner from the Reshfeld Kingdom.

Apparently, he met Princess Valtrune at the military academy she attended, but his grades were unremarkable. There wasn’t a single story about him excelling in any particular way.

“…Hah.”

‘A man of his caliber has no business being a personal knight.’

The moment that changed my mind came suddenly.

It was when I witnessed him… him… cutting down the men from the anti-Princess faction one after another.

The flying sparks and those glistening, blood-red eyes. I can’t forget them.

Aldia Graetz usually had a quiet, stiff impression.

But his demeanor in combat was so fierce and ruthless, it was as if a different personality was hiding inside him.

That sword style was, without a doubt, specialized for killing. It wasn’t for protecting someone; it was a dreadful, horrific technique for destroying any obstacle in his path.

If his sword hadn’t been sheathed, every single one of those anti-Princess nobles would be dead.

He’s on a completely different level from your average knight. He was, in all respects, a monster thirsting for blood.

That’s why there are things I still don’t understand.

Is it possible for a mere student who attended a military academy to have such battle-honed sword skills? Normally, it would be absolutely impossible.

His movements were designed to minimize damage and sustain a long fight. He seemed to perceive every enemy within a certain range, positioning himself as if he predicted all their movements. He responded fluidly and appropriately even to attacks from behind. It was a flawless, gapless performance.

On top of that, those ruthless eyes. He wouldn’t hesitate to kill, which makes him even more dangerous.

Inexperienced soldiers and knights almost always show a slight hesitation when cutting someone, but he had none of that.

“…Were you really just a student until a few months ago?”

I asked the black-haired man following closely behind me. He met my gaze with an unsettling look, as if he could see right through me, and nodded silently.

“…I see. You’re quite a man, then.”

That wasn’t sarcasm. It was the highest praise I could offer.

“…I’m her personal knight.”

He replied to my words with a perfectly calm expression, his voice utterly cold.

Is this how much his attitude changes when Princess Valtrune isn’t around?

I also change my demeanor depending on the person, but this man is far more blatant.

“You’ve sworn loyalty to Lady Valtrune, correct?”

“Yes. I believe my loyalty to her is deeper than anyone’s.”

“Is that… so.”

There was no falsehood in that statement.

Those eyes were real. If Princess Valtrune told him to die, he would instantly cut off his own head. That’s how devoted, how captivated by her, his eyes were.

Hah. It’s almost funny. If he’s just a typical new graduate, then the Philnotes Military Academy must be a monster-manufacturing plant.

And those resolute eyes, sharp as a seasoned warrior’s.

—This man is, without a doubt, an anomaly.

He’s not someone you can categorize as ‘commoner’ or ‘noble.’ He’s an unknowable monster, hiding in plain sight.

Aldia Graetz—this man has the eyes of someone who has killed many.

How did she tame this monster? And how did she see through him to know of his unparalleled strength? The questions just keep piling up.

“May I ask you a question as well?”

Aldia Graetz spoke abruptly, stopping and letting out a sigh.

I’m the second son of the Gerreschiff ducal house, and he’s treating me with such disrespect. But, paradoxically, I find his lack of commoner-like weakness refreshing.

“If you have a question, ask whatever you want.”

“Then I’ll take you up on that… Lord Linos. Are you Rune-sama’s ally, or her enemy?”

I don’t find the question strange. This man is simply asking a question he genuinely has.

“Which do you think I am?”

“…Who knows. I’m asking because I can’t tell.”

“What if I were her enemy?”

“If you were her enemy, Lord Linos… I would probably dispose of you at an early stage.”

“Hmph. You’re not even trying to hide it.”

“No. Because… you’ve already sensed it, haven’t you? That I’m that kind of person.”

His red-black pupils were ruthless. He was like a demon who had wandered in from another world.

The air grew suffocatingly thick.

“I am…”

“You are… what?”

“—”

My throat seized, and the next word wouldn’t come out.

I’ve never experienced this before. I was being swallowed by an intense killing intent that seemed to envelop the entire castle, and I felt so sick I thought I might vomit.

—I might be killed by this man, right here and now.

The pressure Aldia Graetz released was so intense, so far beyond imagination, that the thought was unavoidable.

---

7

A suffocating silence.

It was broken by Aldia Graetz, who wore a hollow, empty smile.

“…My apologies. You’re not an enemy, are you, Lord Linos?”

The crushing, suffocating atmosphere vanished in an instant. He walked past me, who had frozen in place.

“I’m sorry for testing you like that. But this, too, is for Rune-sama’s sake. Please, as two people who have sworn loyalty to her, I hope you can overlook it.”

“Ah… Ah, yes. Let’s do that.”

I wiped away the cold sweat that was streaming down my face like a waterfall and followed the personal knight’s black-haired back.

His stride was slow, matching my own. I no longer had the composure to show any hostility toward him.

“Lord Linos. You are of the Gerreschiff ducal house, the head of the pro-Princess faction, correct?”

“Yes. My older brother is the head of the house.”

“I see. So your loyalty to Rune-sama is among the highest of the Imperial nobility?”

“Of course! The Gerreschiff house has served the Imperial family for generations. We are proud Imperial nobles. We would never become fools who harm the royal family, not even if it costs us our lives!”

As I declared this, a bold, challenging smile played on his lips.

“…Absolute loyalty. I see.”

“—!”

A shiver ran down my spine, but I feigned calmness, determined not to let him see my agitation. I couldn’t read his expression, but I could feel his intention to use me leaking from his every gesture.

“Lord Linos. I have a proposal for you.”

This was clearly going to be a shady offer. But this man’s loyalty to Princess Valtrune is real.

That’s why…

“…I’m listening.”

…I sensed that whatever he had to say, it was worth considering.

“It’s not such a difficult proposal. Please, don’t be so guarded.”

“Hmph. I’ve been cautious since the day I was born.”

The Imperial nobility is famous for its elitism. The Gerreschiff house was no exception.

My late parents valued the ducal house’s status above all else and, like typical Imperial nobles, held the stance that it was perfectly fine to oppress commoners.

Acting arrogant was a noble’s privilege. That was the ‘truth’ they tried to instill in both me and my brother.

—But I grew up to be the kind of person who questioned everything, even the words of my own parents.

“I’m surprised. I thought you were the type of man who would dismiss my words as not worth hearing.”

“I hate commoners. But… I do respect you. At the very least, you’ve reached a passing grade as a personal knight.”

“That’s high praise.”

I don’t hate commoners because of the Imperial nobles’ typical elitism. I hate them because they’re weak, liable to be blown away by a single gust of wind.

In that respect, the man in front of me has a will of iron. He would keep walking as long as Princess Valtrune wished it, even if he were cut by swords or burned by fire.

—I don’t dislike people who possess something strong and unshakeable.

“Go on. Tell me what you’re plotting.”

“It’s not so grand as a plot. I just came to the simple realization that the anti-Princess nobles are a truly unnecessary existence. We need to be looking outside our borders. But instead, we’re sparking conflicts within our own country. Don’t you find that utterly foolish?”

“…Continue.”

“Frankly, they’re in the way. Rune-sama is worthy of being the next Emperor. No one else can lead the Empire’s future. And yet, the fools who oppose her succession do nothing but think of ways to trip her up. Don’t you agree that such an existence should be… eliminated?”

I agreed with his opinion.

Princess Valtrune is the Emperor’s only daughter. When it comes to the line of succession, there is no one above her.

“The anti-Princess nobles are in the way… so what do you want from me?”

His sharp, red eyes glinted, unsettling and brilliant.

“…Lord Linos. I want you to take control of the entire Imperial military.”

“—! Are you sane?”

“Yes. I am perfectly sane.”

It’s true that the main obstacle to Princess Valtrune’s succession is the interference of the anti-Princess nobles. And at the very top of that faction is the Duke of Felsdorf, the Military Lord who controls the Imperial army.

To take control of the entire Imperial military… that means defeating the Military Lord and rebuilding the army into a new organization. But that’s a massive, almost impossible, undertaking.

“Hmph. Are you telling me to confront the Felsdorf ducal house? If so, you’re asking the wrong person. I’m the second son of the Gerreschiff house. The power of the house belongs to my brother…”

“Ah. Please don’t misunderstand. I am asking you, Lord Linos, as an individual. I’m not after the power of your ducal house.”

—Don’t ask the impossible.

A man who hasn’t even inherited his family’s title, who isn’t even the heir, has no power to control an army. But, as if he’d anticipated even that, he gave a devilish smile.

“Rest assured. The Imperial army’s Mage Division and Cavalry Division are already on our side. Of the remaining divisions, the most troublesome one is…”

“…The Dragon Mount Division.”

“Yes. I want you, Lord Linos, to hijack the Dragon Mount Division.”

The commander of the Dragon Mount Division is a leading anti-Princess noble and a loyal vassal of Duke Felsdorf.

If we can strip him of his post as commander, Duke Felsdorf’s influence as Military Lord will be greatly diminished.

“I understand your request… So, what is my compensation for taking control of the Dragon Mount Division?”

This is a negotiation. He wouldn’t make such a request without offering something in return.

“What can you offer me?”

“…I’ve already told you the compensation.”

“What?”

Ignoring my confusion, he whispered in my ear.

“Control of the entire Imperial military. When you’ve secured the Dragon Mount Division, Lord Linos, I will petition Rune-sama to recommend you as the next Military Lord.”

For me, who had failed to inherit the family title, that was the greatest possible reward.

So, his initial words weren’t just empty talk.

It’s true… hijacking a single division is something I could do. And the reward for that would be the entire Imperial military…

—Haha.

“That’s absurd. The other division commanders would never stay silent if I were to become Military Lord.”

I said it mockingly, but Aldia Graetz’s expression didn’t change as he stared at me with those red eyes.

“I’m serious. If you become the Military Lord, Lord Linos, Rune-sama’s reign will be stabilized immediately. Besides, this is a huge chance for you. Am I wrong?”

“A chance…?”

“Your brother will inherit the family title, and you will be stuck in the position of ‘second son of the Gerreschiff ducal house.’ You’ll only have a borrowed title. …But you, with your immense pride as an Imperial noble, can’t be satisfied with that, can you?”

“…That… is…”

“Don’t you want it? A title that is yours, and yours alone. If you become the Military Lord, you will be Rune-sama’s most trusted confidant. That should be far more valuable than inheriting the ducal title.”

The devil’s whisper. This commoner, whom I despised, was striking at my weakest point with perfect, unerring accuracy.

‘He’s just stringing you along with sweet words.’

How I wish I could have just dismissed it like that. But I was captivated by his sweet proposal, and I fell silent.

He clapped me on the shoulder as I stood there, unable to think.

“I look forward to a favorable reply.”

And with that, the monster of unknown origin left as coolly as he had arrived.

“…Me, as Military Lord. No, that’s ridiculous.”

Just two days later.

At that moment, I never imagined I would so easily accept Aldia Graetz’s proposal.

I had always thought of myself as a more thoughtful and cautious person, but perhaps that was just my own misconception.

—I had just agreed to help a true monster, one that was eating away at the Empire from the shadows.

---

8

Linos stood frozen, his expression utterly dumbfounded.

Watching him, I was certain.

“…Negotiations successful.”

I muttered in a raspy voice. The moment Linos was out of sight, I snapped my fingers.

“Fadi.”

I called the name of the young man who was both the leader of the ‘White Smoke Lizards’ and the head of the Provisional Elite Corps’ intelligence division. He slithered down from the air, landing lightly before turning his innocent-looking eyes on me.

“What is it, boss?”

“Put a tail on Linos. It looks like he’s going to be a valuable asset.”

“Oh, I get it. Roger that. I’ll put a few people from the ‘White Smoke Lizards’ on him~”

“Good. Thanks.”

I gave a brief nod. When I looked back at Fadi, he was holding out a blood-stained knife, as if showing off.

“Oh, right! Just as you ordered, I slaughtered all the anti-Princess nobles’ spies in the area. There were about twenty of ’em, I think. It was pretty easy!”

Behind his innocent smile, a cruel and terrifying darkness swirled. But that wasn’t true only for him.

“Just what I’d expect. By the way, what about the report to Rune-sama?”

“Of course I haven’t reported it. You told me to keep my mouth shut.”

“Good.”

“…But are you sure this is okay? Doing all this behind Lady Valtrune’s back.”

“I just don’t want Rune-sama to worry.”

“Hmm. I see… Okay! In that case, I’ll keep my mouth shut about it forever!”

Princess Valtrune has no idea that I’m using force to cull the power of the anti-Princess faction.

She is aiming for the throne by proving her own worth, but that path alone isn’t a guarantee. That’s why I decided to forge a separate path.

“Rune-sama is worthy of being Emperor; that is a given. She is more merciful, virtuous, and noble than anyone. —Therefore, any obstacles…”

“You want them erased before they even enter Lady Valtrune’s field of vision… right?”

“Yes. It’s our job to take on everything—from having to look at these unpleasant people to staining our hands with their filthy blood.”

I want Princess Valtrune to walk as clean a path as possible.

A perfect Empress—the strongest in history to lead the Empire, adored by all her people, merciful, yet never lacking in rigor.

She must never be tarnished by a reputation for being ‘inhumane’ or ‘cruel.’

For her sake, I will gladly continue to handle all the dirty work.

“Rune-sama’s presence has been growing. Everyone is captivated by her.”

“And hidden by her brilliant light, we just quietly carry out our own mission, don’t we?”

—Yes. Everything…

“Is for Rune-sama.”

“For Lady Valtrune.”

From the day I swore absolute loyalty to her, I have resolved to eliminate every disaster that befalls her. This isn’t an oath I took as her personal knight; it’s a penance for my past failure to stop her death.

“…Thanks to Rune-sama’s introduction, Flegel has been recognized by the Emperor. The ‘Sight-Share’ magic will now become known throughout the Empire as his unique ability.”

‘Sight-Share’ was actually taught to Flegel by Fadi. We judged its strategic value was too high to keep secret, so we decided to pass it off as Flegel’s innate magic.

The roles are already being cast: those who will shine on the public stage, and those who will move in the shadows.

“Fadi. Rune-sama has forbidden me from acting independently. That’s why I’m counting on you, who has the freedom to move, to continue acting as my hands and feet.”

“Uh-huh. You can count on me… boss.”

Fadi put an index finger to his lips and vanished, his form dissolving into the scenery.

The ‘White Smoke Lizards,’ led by Fadi, capable of moving as both assassins and spies. And Linos, the second son of the Gerreschiff ducal house, who now holds the potential to control the Imperial army.

We’ve already gathered more than enough strength, but I still feel a lingering unease.

“Rune-sama… I swear, I will lead you to a happy future.”

I will fill in the gaps and make every move necessary to ensure her plan proceeds without a hitch.

Everything is for Princess Valtrune.

As long as I have breath in my body, I will use any means necessary to achieve that goal.