Chapter 484
Chapter 484: I Have a Question. (2)
“Where did you hear that name…?”
Only a handful in this kingdom knew of the existence of the ‘Shadow Knight Group.’
For someone from the Perdium family, a non-central noble, growing up in the northern borderlands, it was an utterly unknown name.
Marquis Branford’s forehead twitched.
It had been apparent for some time that Ghislaine Perdium had an unusual knack for information. No, there were times I thought it was almost prophetic.
Yet, to know even the royal family’s secret intelligence…
“Could it be that you’ve planted a spy in the royal family?”
If not, there was no way to explain it. That guy was indeed someone who would do something like that if necessary.
In an effort to dispel the tense atmosphere, Ghislaine boldly spoke up. She had a good excuse handy for moments like these.
“I heard it from a Priest of the Salvation Society.”
“…?”
“They said they fought with the Shadow Knight Group a long time ago. That they even attacked the royal family.”
“What… what do you mean by that…?”
“I’m asking because I think the current war is simply an extension of that.”
It turned out that throwing someone else under the bus was more effective than expected.
Moreover, it wasn’t entirely a lie, was it?
As Ghislaine shamelessly spoke, Marquis Branford swallowed hard.
“Umm…”
Claiming she heard it from the enemy was hard to challenge. It still felt suspicious, but there wasn’t a better avenue to explore.
After a brief moment of contemplation, Marquis Branford sighed and said,
“I don’t know the details myself. Only that they protected the royal family from the shadows.”
This time, Ghislaine frowned. How could the kingdom’s most influential figure, who had access to all information, not know about this?
Seeing Ghislaine’s blatant expression, Marquis Branford smirked before continuing.
“That organization no longer exists. There are only records indicating that it existed. There’s no way to find out.”
“Does the Chancellor know anything?”
“No, he doesn’t really know either. The Shadow Knight Group was especially secretive. I’ve asked the Chancellor about it too, but all I heard was that they just supported what was necessary when requested.”
“So, you mean no one truly knows about them?”
“Right, isn’t that what makes them a secret organization? Even Commander Maurice of the kingdom’s army didn’t know such a group ever existed.”
“Then… is there any information on why they disappeared?”
“It simply states that they vanished due to internal strife.”
Ghislaine fixed her gaze on Marquis Branford’s eyes and spoke.
“I find it hard to believe that such a secretive organization existed within the royal family.”
“I didn’t believe it at first either. But now that I hear what you’re saying, it seems they must have been fighting with the Salvation Society for a long time. They didn’t disappear due to internal conflict.”
“Yes, the Shadow Knight Group indeed fought with the Salvation Society a long time ago.”
“Hmm, do you know why they targeted the royal family?”
“I don’t know much about that either.”
Marquis Branford pondered for a moment before responding.
“It seems that the Duke Faction did not simply rebel out of a desire for power.”
“That seems to be the case. They have been operating in the shadows for quite some time. All I know is that the Shadow Knight Group’s attempts have failed once.”
“Perhaps the King might know. He was directly leading the kingdom’s affairs during the time when the Shadow Knight Group existed.”
At that, Ghislaine’s eyes sparkled.
“Since we’re on the subject, I’d like to meet the King.”
“Huh? Why do you say that?”
“I want to ask him about the Shadow Knight Group and find out what happened a long time ago.”
In response, Marquis Branford shook his head firmly.
“No.”
“Why not?”
“His Majesty’s health is quite poor. And he dislikes talking about the Shadow Knight Group.”
“He dislikes it?”
“Yes. That’s why, even after the Shadow Knight Group’s disappearance, they didn’t form a new organization. Instead, they increased support for the royal knight order.”
Thanks to that, the royal knight commander could receive significant assistance, including pieces of the Dragon Heart, reaching the level of a master.
In essence, it meant that no secret organizations remained within the Ruthania royal family.
“Why did His Majesty dislike the Shadow Knight Group?”
“I understand they don’t follow anyone’s commands.”
“I see.”
Ghislaine nodded as if she understood. No king likes an uncontrollable power.
Still, Ghislaine wasn’t one to give up so easily.
“Can’t you spare even a moment? To be honest, it’s hard for me to say this, but… it’s me, you know?”
At those words, Marquis Branford chuckled.
Indeed, Ghislaine was now a hero who saved the kingdom. Even the king would find it hard to refuse his request. Given Ghislaine’s achievements, it would only make sense to meet him and extend his gratitude.
Nevertheless, Marquis Branford’s answer remained negative.
“Not now. His Majesty is truly unwell. I’ll check on His Majesty’s condition and let you know.”
“Ugh, fine.”
‘Well, I could just wear a mask and sneak in for a meeting, right?’
Despite the refusal from Marquis Branford, Ghislaine thought calmly. It was not like she was going to assassinate him; all she wanted was to ask a few questions.
There were many strong figures in the royal family, so the chance of getting caught was high. But couldn’t she just power through and say she wanted to chat for a moment?
However, Marquis Branford suddenly glared at Ghislaine, warning her.
“You’re not planning to sneak in and meet him, are you?”
“…Of course not.”
“No, you would totally do something like that. You’d wear a mask and sneak in if you had to.”
“….”
It seemed that she had spent too long with Marquis Branford. He had a solid grasp of her character.
Marquis Branford sighed in a lamenting tone.
“That’s really not okay. If you suddenly appear or make a fuss, it could give him a heart attack.”
“…Is it that serious?”
“Yes, so don’t act rashly. I wouldn’t want you to become the royal assassin.”
“….”
An awkward atmosphere ensued. It seemed Marquis Branford had no more topics to discuss and switched the subject.
“By the way, weren’t we originally planning to advance straight to the south?”
That had been the plan. To eliminate the 2nd Corps and lure the remaining troops south. They had intended to shift the battlefield to the southern front.
“I thought enticing wouldn’t work, so we proceeded with a piecemeal attack. Fortunately, we managed to succeed.”
“Then when do you intend to advance to the south? Wouldn’t it be better to strike as soon as possible?”
Marquis Branford shared similar thoughts with Maurice. It was only natural that he felt this was an opportune moment.
However, Ghislaine had no intention of acting hastily.
“For now, I plan to properly organize the troops before advancing to the south. The Duke Faction is no small challenge. But I promise not to delay too long.”
“Alright, I understand. If things continue like this, there shouldn’t be a big issue. I’ll leave the war to you.”
Ghislaine nodded. He also believed there wouldn’t be much of a problem.
With Ereness and Parniel around, including Belinda and Gillian who had risen to superhuman levels, Vanessa and Tenant were also present.
But they couldn’t let their guard down. The enemy’s strength was not to be underestimated. There was the Kingdom’s Greatest Sword, the kingdom’s best mage, and Aiden, one of the seven greats of the continent.
As for how many High Priests of the Salvation Society remained, that was still unknown. The one guiding them had yet to reveal their identity.
Thus, rather than rushing, it was crucial to take this opportunity to rest and reorganize their forces.
After discussing a few more matters regarding the situation with Marquis Branford, Ghislaine stood up.
Before leaving, Ghislaine asked once more with a faint hope.
“Have you ever seen the leader of the Shadow Knight Group… even for a moment?”
“…No. I’ve only seen the remaining records.”
“I see, understood.”
Ghislaine bowed and stepped back.
It didn’t seem like the time to reveal that the leader of the Shadow Knight Group was her mother. There were too many hidden aspects, leaving her feeling uneasy.
Watching Ghislaine’s retreating back, Marquis Branford was lost in thought.
‘To hear that name again…’
In truth, he had seen the leader of the Shadow Knight Group before. And he knew a bit more than he had told Ghislaine.
He simply didn’t want to admit all the truths.
Because he didn’t want to accept it.
— Haha, my son-in-law. From now on, he will serve alongside me and lead the kingdom.
In his youth, at a secret gathering called by the Chancellor, there had been a woman wearing a comfortable outfit and a mask.
Even the Chancellor treated her with utmost respect, leaving Marquis Branford speechless and unable to say anything.
The woman smiled and said.
— What? You chose your son-in-law as the successor? Isn’t that a bit too much of a family affair?
— Ahem, that’s not the case. He possesses enough ability. It’s sufficient to protect the royal family.
— Yeah, you look stubborn. Kids like this tend to do well.
With a voice laced with mirth, the woman spoke. Though he couldn’t see her expression, her voice sounded incredibly youthful, leaving him puzzled.
Who on earth was this woman?
Even when Marquis Branford asked out of curiosity, the Chancellor only repeated that she was a high figure who protected the royal family.
It was then that Marquis Branford realized.
The actual power behind this kingdom was determined by that woman.
The one she marked would become the kingdom’s most influential figure.
He also learned that another family existed, protecting this kingdom from the shadows.
— Work hard. I will help you.
The woman said nothing else and vanished. The Chancellor insisted fearfully.
To keep it a secret. This was merely a moment to introduce herself and become familiar with him to foster him.
Young and powerless, Marquis Branford had no choice but to comply with those words.
After that, incredible things began to happen. Whatever Marquis Branford did turned out to be incredibly successful.
He had indeed worked hard and possessed significant ability. Being born into a powerful family and marrying the Chancellor’s daughter had come with many advantages.
But his luck was extraordinary.
No matter what he undertook, he seemed to thrive. Even situations that would usually be tough for him seemed to resolve over time.
It felt as if the world was anxious to lend him a helping hand.
While feeling both joy and fear, Marquis Branford pondered.
‘The true power that moves this kingdom.’
Everything flowed as per her plan. Everyone was merely her puppets.
Even the king.
Is this right?
The young and impassioned Marquis Branford could not accept that there could be such a presence in the kingdom!
He tried to discuss the matter several times with the Chancellor. What kind of family could have such power over the kingdom?
But the Chancellor evaded the topic. No, he feared it.
— We only need to take responsibility for the daylight of this kingdom. The night does not belong to us. Never forget that.
— Does that make sense? Why has the royal family been silent all this time?
— They not only protect the royal family but also surveil them.
— Surveillance… you say?
— Yes. Don’t inquire further. I’m not well-informed either. Just know that this country operates this way.
At the Chancellor’s stern demeanor, Marquis Branford concealed his resentment and withdrew. He made a resolution.
‘If I seize power, I will never tolerate that organization.’
Power must be transparent. There cannot be unseen hands moving in the shadows. Only then can the kingdom function properly.
That was his belief.
But his goal was reached more quickly than expected.
Thunder rumbled!
It was a stormy night. Having fallen asleep late due to work, Marquis Branford suddenly awoke with a start.
He found a woman standing before him.
“You… who are you?”
“Shh.”
The woman was the leader of the Shadow Knight Group.
However, something about her was off. She was covered in blood, as if she had just come from a battle. Part of her mask was broken, revealing one of her eyes.
For the first time, Marquis Branford saw part of her face.
The woman, Anette, spoke to him.
“I’m leaving now.”
“W-what do you mean?”
“The Shadow Knight Group has been disbanded. Just as you wished.”
“Oh, no… what do you mean by that…?”
“What’s important is not that. I have removed anyone who could hinder your path. There should be no issues in seizing power.”
“……”
Anette smirked.
“Well, with your abilities and family’s strength, you’d eventually get there, but there’s no harm in going smoothly. Who knows what variables might arise?”
“I don’t understand what you’re saying.”
“It’s just that a slight problem has arisen. From now on, you must protect the royal family.”
Marquis Branford couldn’t comprehend.
The powerful Shadow Knight Group had disbanded? Who on earth could have done that?
“Wh-who did you fight against?”
“The darkness.”
A chilling light flickered in her eyes. Marquis Branford struggled to suppress his fear and asked.
“What is that?”
“Do not try to know for now. There’s no need to. The revealed darkness has been killed by me. One day, you’ll understand.”
“Then what should I do?”
“Moving forward, keep an eye on the Duke Faction.”
“The Duke Faction… you say?”
“Yes. The only place I couldn’t touch was the Duke Faction. They too feared me, which is why they have stayed silent all these years.”
Marquis Branford was profoundly shocked.
The heads of past Duke Factions had lived very quietly. They even refrained from appearing in public, concealing their presence.
It had always been puzzling why someone so powerful wouldn’t thirst for power. But it was because of the Shadow Knight Group.
Just how formidable was the person before him?
Anette looked at Marquis Branford with a chilling gaze and said.
“Once you are certain I have disappeared, the Duke Faction will surely flaunt their ambitions. The battle in the shadows is now over. They must show themselves.”
“Wh-when will that happen?”
“For ten years, they will remain quiet while seeking my whereabouts. After that, for another ten years, they will move carefully to seize the kingdom. But what happens after that, even I cannot guarantee.”
“……”
“Seize power within that timeframe. Ensure that no one dares to challenge you. In doing so, protect the royal family. That’s what I’ve cleared the way for you to do.”
“The heir of the Duke Faction, Erlhardt, is my friend. He… he wouldn’t do such a thing.”
“……I hope that’s true.”
She was well aware of Erlhardt. He was someone who lacked interest and lived in lethargy.
But no one could predict how things might turn out in the future. The darkness would not let him be undisturbed.
Anette’s form began to fade.
“Don’t forget my words. You are now the only one who can protect the royal family.”
“Wh-where are you going?”
“Well… anywhere but the royal family would be fine.”
With that last statement, darkness enveloped her form, and she vanished.
Marquis Branford remained standing in place for a while.
As morning dawned, his day continued as usual.
Nothing happened, and no rumors spread. The world had changed not one bit.
So, Marquis Branford began to doubt whether he had merely dreamed it.
Until he learned that several nobles had gone missing or died.
‘Even still, I didn’t believe it…’
He had become the kingdom’s most powerful figure, just as her plans had laid out. Marquis Branford desperately tried to erase that memory, refusing to acknowledge it.
All of this was due to his own efforts. That was also an undeniable fact.
Receiving help required the capacity to do so.
As time flowed, memories of her began to fade. He didn’t wish to think about it.
But the look in those eyes, seen beyond the shattered mask, remained too vividly etched in his memory.
Yes, that gaze was…
Suddenly, a chill ran down Marquis Branford’s spine, and he shouted.
“Butler!”
“Y-yes, my lord!”
The butler rushed in a frenzy. After all, Marquis Branford rarely yelled so loudly.
Catching his breath for a moment, Marquis Branford glared at the door through which Ghislaine had exited and said.
“Fetch a portrait of the Lady of Perdium.”
“Y-you mean the portrait of the Lady of Perdium?”
“Right, as quickly as possible.”
Marquis Branford swallowed hard.
Yes, that chilling and piercing gaze she possessed was…
Too strikingly similar to Ghislaine’s.
