章節 293: Chapter 452
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(Breaking News: The Black King Mountain Hideout has been destroyed!)
(What fate awaits the Bise Kingdom with the collapse of the Black King Mountain Hideout?)
(It is reported that Black King leader Valkas Kran is currently in critical condition. The fact that he hasn't made a public statement suggests his situation is dire.)
(Why was the Black King Mountain Hideout attacked?)
(So far, the most likely suspects are Runcandel's 12th flagbearer and his guardian dragon, Murakan... Did they have a grudge between them?)
(Was the power of the Black King mercenaries all just hot air? A myth of the mercenary world shattered by one dragon and one individual.)
(Black Dragon Murakan, trampling the Black King Mountain Hideout!)
(Rumor has it that Runcandel's 12th flagbearer, Jin Runcandel, has brought the "Spectre Corps" to their knees even before this incident... A coalition of neutral forces, perhaps?)
(What will be the fate of the Black King mercenaries?)
As always, news articles were pouring in like crazy.
And, none of these articles were completely correct as is often the case.
Both the Bise Kingdom and nearby news outlets lacked the ability to deeply investigate such an event, and external news sources had to rely on Bise Kingdom's reports for their own news stories.
As a result, misunderstandings, lack of information, and embellishments to fill in the gaps led to Jin being depicted as the destroyer of the Black King mercenaries.
The main reason for this was that the Black King mercenaries couldn't properly control the media.
If it were limited to the Bise Kingdom and its vicinity, they could have easily produced news to suit their taste. However, the Black King mercenaries are not as influential as Runcandel, Zipfel, Vermont, or Kinzelo, which are considered major factions.
Even the four major factions couldn't fully control an incident of this magnitude. You can't stop a wave with your hand.
Moreover, after this incident, the perception was strong that the Black King mercenaries were "finished." Major news outlets had reached a point where they no longer needed to be cautious about their reporting.
Given Valkas's actual condition and the fact that the hideout had been demolished, there was no other way to see it.
"Hahaha, hehehe...! Truly, it's the best year-end event."
Kelliark Zipfel.
As usual, he was seated on the top floor of Zipfel 1st Magic Tower, the tower of stories, and he was looking through various news sources. He had a face reminiscent of Veradin, filled with a boyish grin.
[Ha, are you laughing? Does this make you laugh?]
"Kadun! Aren't you finding this amusing? I think this is even funnier than that comedy I watched with you and Octavia last time."
[Kaah! How do you keep being like this every time? You did the same last time, and even when that damn brat was ranting about the return of the Magic Swordsman, you found it funny.]
Kadun felt like he was about to go mad when Kelliark behaved like this.
-[Is it fun? Are you out of your mind?]
-Why? At that age, he's turning Runcandel into a complete mess all on his own. Even Zipfel couldn't pull it off. I'm enjoying it too, you know?
-[How much damage have we suffered because of that damn brat, Kelliark? Your younger brother died, the Demon God's Orb was destroyed, and on top of that, our alliance with Kinzelo fell apart. The incident with the Holy Kingdom... It's unspeakable. And not long ago, you even lost your Black Knight spy, Kelliark!]
-Don't forget the Iose of the Spectre Corps.
-[Right, that too. Is that all? He's a Magic Swordsman...! That brat is breaking the oath!]
This conversation took place about a month and a half ago, when they received the invitation to the Sword Emperor's banquet.
Back then, Kadun urged Kelliark to pressure Runcandel immediately, but Kelliark didn't listen to him.
It was the same even now. Kadun felt that this wasn't the time for Kelliark to be so relaxed.
'He hasn't experienced the Runcandel of a thousand years ago, that's why he's acting like this. Kelliark doesn't understand how dangerous they are!'
Whether Kelliark was aware of Kadun's thoughts or not, he just kept on laughing heartily.
[Kelliark!]
"Aah, I'm going to lose my hearing. Kadun, why are you so angry?"
[How can you say that...!]
"Is it not significant that the 12th flagbearer brought down the Black King mercenaries? No, no, it's more accurate to say it's not the 12th flagbearer but rather the work of his guardian dragon, Murakan."
[That's exactly why it's a problem. Murakan is regaining his power.]
Murakan.
The reason Kadun was reacting so sensitively to this recent event was precisely because of that.
It was the information relayed directly to him by the Fire Dragon Theo and the Blue Dragon Laramaqua that Murakan was regaining his power.
[Whether Jin Runcandel subdued the Black King mercenaries, absorbed it, or just fought and won, that's not particularly important. But the fact that Murakan is returning to his prime is something we absolutely cannot ignore.]
As usual, Kelliark found Kadun's reaction intriguing, just like before.
"Aren't you overly concerned about that Black Dragon?"
[Unlike when I met him near Santel in the Shawl kingdom, he has clearly recovered a part of his heart this time and that too without the Demon God's Orb.]
Kadun had effortlessly cornered Murakan back then.
Murakan had been preoccupied with rescuing the people of Santel from Kadun's attack, which made it impossible to face Kadun.
At that time, Murakan had barely recovered his strength, so Kadun was much stronger in the first place.
Anyway, after that battle, Murakan survived and demonstrated his strength for all to see.
Both at the Sword Emperor Castle terrorist attack and just a few days ago at the Black King Mountain Hideout.
Kadun had been somewhat uncertain about Murakan's recovery when he heard the news of the Sword Emperor Castle.
He wasn't sure whether the weak Murakan he had encountered at Santel had fully recovered his strength or if he had been unable to show it in battle back then.
[It's certain now. Kelliark, we need to prepare before he regains all of his old power.]
"You're scared, you know."
[Yes.]
Surprisingly, Kadun readily admitted that fact.
"Didn't you say you were the dragon closest to Murakan in power a thousand years ago?"
[Close to and on par are two different things. Okay I admit it he was the strongest. So, take my words seriously and don't let that little brat and Murakan go wild anymore!]
The smile disappeared from Kelliark's face for the first time.
"You have a point. But, Kadun, I feel like it's more of a gamble to meddle with the 12th flagbearer and his guardian dragon."
[Because of Chiron Runcandel?]
"Exactly. When he's gone, the world will fall into our grasp anyway. And he doesn't have much time left. Can the 12th flagbearer of Runcandel overcome the domain of Chiron in that time?"
Absolutely impossible.
Kelliark continued talking and made eye contact with Kadun.
"I have personally experienced the 19 years old Chiron. I don't think the current 12th flagbearer is any better than the Chiron from back then. The 12th flagbearer can never reach his level."
[As you've experienced Chiron's power, I've experienced the Runcandel and Murakan from that time.]
"I know. But, Kadun, look at the current situation. It seems to me that the fight will end as soon as Chiron is gone. The world will be ours. Why bother stirring up the beehive when all we have to do is wait for Chiron's time to end and adjust the variables appropriately? It's not like the opportunity has presented itself, is it?"
Kadun didn't respond.
He didn't think Kelliark was wrong, but he couldn't quite put into words the unsettling feeling that filled his heart.
"If you're worried, I'll order an increase in the personnel tracking Misha. It should help alleviate your anxiety."
In the end, Kadun could only nod.
[...Alright. It would be much better if Murakan's sister gets captured.]
"Yes. It's a bit regrettable that we narrowly missed her recently. Anyway, I'm more concerned about my son than the 12th flagbearer or the Black Dragons."
[Veradin?]
"Yes. It's still difficult to tamper with his mind and memories, maybe because the mind control magic's stability is deteriorating or due to some other influence. Manipulating his mind and memories has been getting increasingly challenging."
The factors that could influence Veradin's spiritual world.
Kelliark couldn't know what that was. It was because of the emotions he had forgotten for so long.
[In my opinion, it's because the 12th flagbearer and Dante Hairan have an influence on Veradin.]
"Whatever influence it has on Veradin, the end result will be hatred and betrayal. And if that's the case, we need to be even more cautious about touching the 12th flagbearer until the perfect moment arrives."
[Damn!]
Kadun shrugged his shoulders, and Kelliark fell silent for a while, fiddling with a crystal ball.
***
The land of the beastmen, Kinzelo's Headquarter.
The faces of Bishkel, Berakt and Joe were dark. The table they sat at was piled with numerous news articles about Jin.
However, unlike Zipfel, they did not mistakenly think that Murakan was the main culprit behind this incident.
"Hmm, Zephyrin... she's gone and caused an incident."
Joe said, glancing at Berakt.
Zephyrin.
Even though Kinzelo had not sent anyone to the scene of the collapsed Black King Mountain Hideout, they were fully aware that this incident was her doing.
Because the condition of the leader had rapidly deteriorated right after the collapse of Black King Mountain Hideout.
It meant either the leader had used excessive force just as he did in Sword Emperor castle, or someone else had harnessed the leader's power.
The leader now suffered in the same way, and there was no doubt that there was only one being capable of borrowing the leader's power without permission: Zephyrin.
"No, um... leader's condition, um, isn't very, chomp, good, huh? Because, um, the Demon Dragon, uh, did something wrong!"
Bubare said in annoyance while eating a sweet potato croquette.
Bishkel and Berakt had the impulse to kill that fat lump of flesh immediately, but they clenched their trembling fists.
"Vice-leader."
"Yes, Sir Berakt."
"What are your thoughts on this matter?"
"I also think that Ms. Zephyrin's recent actions went too far. After the events at the Sword Emperor castle, our leader was already required to have extreme rest."
"Furthermore, she was at the height of not even showing her face during Kinzelo's debut. I believe she should be punished severely."
"Sir Berakt, Ms. Zephyrin is beyond our jurisdiction."
"I am aware of that. I just inquired if the Vice-leader had any ideas. Our great cause may be set back if our leader's recovery is delayed."
In response, Bishkel closed his eyes and fell into deep thought for a while.
"Then, I will request a meeting with her and ask for a favor. I will ask her to spend some time as a spy within Zipfel. It seems that this is the maximum we can ask of Ms. Zephyrin."
"There is a high probability that she will not agree."
"I will make sure to persuade her."
Berakt nodded in satisfaction. Bishkel always kept his word.
"Understood. I trust you and wait, Vice-leader."
章節 294: Chapter 453
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***
"It seems like there's definitely a problem."
A knight said with a dark expression. He was reporting to Joshua Runcandel, the 2nd flagbearer of the Runcandel clan.
Joshua remained silent for a while and only the embers of cigarettes glowed. Joshua's face illuminated by the dim light, and he had a stiffer face than the knight.
Because he had never imagined something like this would happen.
It wasn't just anyone; it was the Black Knight.
The strongest guardian knight of the clan, only ten people in the clan could wear the black helmet. Black Knights never fail in their missions.
Even in the rare event of a failure, they would certainly find another way, or they would have encountered an insurmountable variable that they couldn't handle on their own, then they would return safely.
If it was an impossible situation, to the point where they had to give their lives, they had to leave a message to the clan.
In other words, no matter what problem arose, it was unthinkable that a black knight would disappear without any news.
At least, that's how Joshua saw the Black Knight. Most others felt the same way.
However, it had been days since the news about the 'Black King Mercenaries Incident' started pouring in, and the Black Knight, whom he had sent to meet with Valkas, had not yet returned.
'It's clear that he was involved in the battle at the Black King Mountain Hideout…'
Joshua let out a deep sigh, and grey smoke wafted through the darkness.
He wanted to cut the throat of the reporting knight.
What was the point of reporting what I know? Why are you scratching my inside by bringing it up when everyone already knew about it?
No one would blame Jin for venting his unresolved hatred and anger on the knight.
Joshua's hand, holding the cigarette, trembled ever so slightly. Joshua regained his composure after the intense impulse surged through him for 5 seconds.
He felt like thousands of bugs crawling all over his body for those 5 seconds, but during that time, Joshua didn't show any emotions or even a twitch.
He felt a great pride that he could control even such a terrible impulse.
"I know, so go away. And call Howard."
"Yes, my lord."
The knight left, and Joshua once again lost in thought. His gaze was fixed on the stack of newspapers on his desk.
(In the midst of the Black Dragon Murakan destroying the Black King Mountain Hideout, both the 12th flagbearer and the Black King mercenaries have yet to clearly explain the reason for the war... What are the most likely developments in this situation?)
(The contractors of the dragons, who are familiar with Murakan, have been continuously refusing to interview or comment on Murakan. It is indicating that they are extremely afraid of him. Perhaps, the cause of this incident could simply be Murakan's displeasure….)
(The dragon, known as the King of the Sky a thousand years ago, terrorized the world... What kind of being is Murakan?)
The newspapers were filled with information about Jin and Murakan, especially Murakan.
'If the Black Knight has indeed died.'
Then there was a high possibility that he was killed by Murakan.
It is unthinkable that Valkas Kran, who is good at seizing opportunities, would participate in killing the Black Knight.
But, why Murakan?
Like many newspapers, Joshua couldn't think of a clear answer.
'Surely my youngest brother could not have told Murakan to kill the Black Knight.'
The youngest, the 12th flagbearer.
Joshua had always recognized Jin. Even when the other siblings treated Jin as just a fearless young one, to Joshua, my youngest brother possessed a shining talent and potential.
The youngest was undoubtedly an exceptional individual.
It was not only his talent in swordsmanship or magic but also his leadership as a monarch that set him apart.
A monarch possesses countless virtues, but to Joshua, one of the most important ones was the affection he held for his subjects.
'In that sense, my youngest brother won't kill the Black Knight just because he's my person. Never!'
The youngest was also someone who loved Runcandel more than anyone else.
'I heard from Mother, and I experienced it firsthand. The Black Dragon Murakan is a very capricious and malevolent being. If Murakan killed the Black Knight, he would have done it against Jin's will.'
That would imply that Jin couldn't properly control Murakan.
However, Joshua soon concluded that it couldn't be the case. If Murakan had gone beyond Jin's control, there would have been too many instances when he could have caused even bigger accidents.
Knock!
A man with clean white hair and a straight posture entered the room. He was the 1st butler, Howard.
"Did you call for me, my lord?"
"Howard, what are your thoughts?"
Howard showed no sign of confusion even in the face of such a sudden question without any explanation. He already knew what Joshua was pondering.
"There are two possibilities. Either he died or he escaped. I think, in either case, there may be an element of betrayal."
Joshua's eyes narrowed at the mention of betrayal.
"Betrayal, He is... brother of youngest nanny, Gilly McRolan, before he became the Black Knight."
Joshua remembered the state of relationship between Gilly and McRolan.
"..... And Gilly McRolan, she may harbor significant animosity towards McRolan."
"I also feel the same way."
"The report mentioned that my youngest brother saw the Black Knight using the claws. So, my youngest brother could easily deduce that the Black Knight is somehow connected to McRolan."
According to Horward, my youngest brother betrayed the clan and killed the Black Knight.
Unlike Joshua, he didn't believe that the 12th flagbearer truly loved the clan. Because in Jin's eyes, Gilly held a higher position than the clan. So, he killed the Black Knight to release her grudge and to strike at Joshua.
'It is plausible considering that my youngest brother cares about Gilly very much.'
But Joshua shook his head.
"It doesn't seem like my youngest brother would be so emotionally driven," Joshua said.
"Yes, my lord."
"Perhaps Gilly's desire for revenge will be resolved in some other way. If there's any chance that he betrayed us, it might be the case like Barton Vicenna."
"Are you referring to the traitor?"
"Yes. If the Black Knight had betrayed the clan like Barton, my youngest brother might have killed him. He has punished the clan's traitor."
"But, my lord, in that case, it implies that our unity is in question. If it's revealed that another Black Knight of the clan has betrayed us..."
Howard trailed off.
Joshua was hoping it wasn't that scenario. If it turned out to be a traitor, it would mean he couldn't even detect it this time, unlike during the Barton situation.
Meeting with Howard didn't provide any clarity. Joshua felt like wandering through the fog with a frustrating feeling.
Suddenly, Joshua realized what he needed to do.
"After all, the fact that the Black Knight is involved in the Black King mercenaries' incident is information that hasn't been made public. Not just the general public but also enemy forces."
The information about the Black Knight's involvement was only known to the Black King mercenaries and Jin's group.
'And my youngest brother loves the clan, so he would never hand over that information to the Zipfel or any other factions. Even if it could cause me significant harm, he would prioritize Runcandel's well-being,' Joshua concluded.
In other words, whether the Black Knight had betrayed them or not, Runcandel and Joshua had nothing to lose at least externally.
"As long as the 12th flagbearer and the Black King mercenaries remain silent, there won't be any more information released to the public."
Of course, they were unaware of Zephyrin's existence.
"Losing the Black Knight is a devastating blow, so the clan must seize the opportunity to minimize the damage," Joshua declared.
Howard nodded in agreement. "Just say the word."
"Prepare a statement praising the 12th flagbearer, and portray the Black King mercenaries' defeat at hand of Jin and he absorbed them. It needs to convey a sense of reality, not just rumors. It's unpleasant, but Valkas Kran won't be able to respond casually. It's a matter that decides the fate of the Black King mercenaries."
"Yes."
"Additionally, distribute articles that commend Murakan's might. Let rumors spread about the Dragons of Zipfel being afraid of Runcandel's guardian dragon."
This time, even Howard couldn't help but question.
"Are you sure about this, my lord? You might end up giving wings to the 12th flagbearer. Moreover, provoking Zipfel like that..."
"My youngest brother out of nowhere swallowed one of the largest neutral forces that everyone had been eyeing for so long."
Howard bowed his head again.
"It's been days since this ridiculous event happened, yet Zipfel hasn't made a proper statement. What do you think this means?"
Zipfel has no intention of fighting.
Joshua continued his explanation.
"Whether it's because they are afraid of my father or because Murakan truly terrifies them, Zipfel has abandoned the Black King mercenaries just like they always have. It was taken away by Runcandel."
Jin could predict and prepare for Black King mercenaries' opposition, not Zipfel.
"Valkas Kran might protest violently by saying something like, what nonsense are you saying when we never surrendered or we will side with Zipfel if you keep pushing us."
It just happened to be the question Howard wanted to ask.
"If Valkas Kran strongly protests like this, we can just eliminate the Black King mercenaries."
It was a few seconds late when Howard finally realized what Joshua was saying.
"Ah…!"
Howard sighed.
"Zipfel has already indicated they have no intention of going all out against the Runcandel just to acquire Black King mercenaries. In such a situation, if the Black King mercenaries entrusts itself to Zipfel, will we engage in all-out war? Zipfel will never assist the Black King mercenaries if we adopt an attitude of going all out against them."
"I'll put it into action immediately."
"Yes, execute it according to your detailed instructions."
After Howard left the room, Joshua leaned back in his chair. He lit a fresh cigarette, and the sound of the ashes burning sounded unusually loud.
Granting wings to the 12th flagbearer...
Howard's words echoed in his mind. The words were true. This incident would certainly raise Jin's standing once more.
'But, in any case…'
Everything Jin had and would ever gain eventually came back to me.
Amid the grey smoky that filled the air, Joshua held onto that conviction.
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