Chapter 75: Contract with "Takame" Part 1
They suspected that the intrusion had been discovered. However, due to the nature of death magic, it couldn't be detected through magical sensing. Since they had eliminated the seals guarding the forbidden library with death magic, they shouldn't have been detected.
Having erased the mechanism that would have signaled the unsealing, they were confident.
Shuu cautiously turned around.
"What a coincidence, Mr. 'Death God.'"
The man who stopped him, placing his hand on his shoulder, knew Shuu's true identity.
He briefly felt wary, but sensing the man's magic, he relaxed his guard.
Shuu brushed the hand off his shoulder and replied in a low voice, "Ah, long time no see, 'Takame.'"
Although the man appeared to be an ordinary researcher, his familiar magic was unmistakably 'Takame.' As a professional information gatherer, he was skilled in disguises, even able to alter his voice at will.
"What brings you here?"
"Well, I happened to witness someone entering this interesting place, so I thought I'd tag along. You wouldn't want me killed for following you without permission, would you?"
"Well, if a suspicious guy had followed me, I'd have killed him on the spot."
"You're quite terrifying."
'Takame' maintained his stoic expression.
It was unclear whether he was genuinely frightened. Furthermore, Shuu's intrusion hadn't been coincidentally witnessed. Shuu had come here expecting that 'Takame' would be waiting.
'Takame' excelled not only in gathering information but also in manipulating it.
Shuu had no reason to refuse 'Takame's request.
"Well, you can come along, but in return, you better provide some valuable information."
"Of course. Let's talk while we move, shall we?"
Shuu quickly scanned the surroundings and proceeded toward the forbidden library. 'Takame' followed.
This forbidden library was constantly sealed and guarded by magic. Only authorized researchers could enter, and their numbers were limited. It was rarely used, and even if someone stayed here for several days, it would likely go unnoticed.
Considering that the forbidden library was sealed, it was suitable for discussing secrets.
"So, what brings you to a place like this?"
"Oh, I've been getting worried lately since some assassin has been getting too active. I'm afraid the Grand Empire might fall before long. So, I thought I'd gather some confidential information before that happens."
"I see, some assassin, huh?"
Without a doubt, it was about Shuu ArcLight, alias 'Death God.'
From 'Takame's perspective, the Grand Empire of Svarokia was already in a sorry state. Of course, an unknown military force like the awakened magical knights was still lurking. That was the only unpredictable factor even for 'Takame.'
"So... what kind of information will you provide?"
"Well, let's not rush. First of all, we've arrived at the forbidden library. Look at this impressive collection. Let's start by exploring these."
"That sounds reasonable."
'Takame' would not break his promise.
That much was clear from their past dealings. This information broker, who was greedy for money, would provide valuable information in exchange.
Also, Shuu could listen to 'Takame's story anytime, but he had limited time in this forbidden library. It would be more efficient to check the forbidden books first.
Shuu examined the books on the shelves and picked up one about magic.
'Takame' was flipping through a book a little distance away.
"This is... magic that resembles necromancy. Producing modified soldiers that do not die through undeath. I see, that's why it's considered forbidden. This is definitely not useful."
There were several types of forbidden books.
They were either kept secret because the information was not for public consumption, because it posed a danger to society, or because there was no one capable of utilizing the information effectively.
The magic used to intentionally create these undead soldiers was likely sealed due to its dangerous nature.
Furthermore, the fact that undead creatures ruled as 'kings' in the southwestern part of the Grand Empire of Svarokia was also related. The Undying King Zenon Life created subordinates using necromancy. This contributed to the ban.
"Now, alchemy, huh? Producing gold from earth, true alchemical research. It makes sense for a nation that uses gold coins. However, this alchemy has failed. Besides, if someone were to perfect this research based on it, there's a possibility of counterfeit gold coins circulating. It's only natural not to want to show this to anyone."
Currently, the gold coins used in the Grand Empire were mixed with metals other than gold. Pure gold coins would run out quickly. However, this alchemical process had failed. Moreover, if someone were to complete alchemy based on this research, there was a possibility of counterfeit gold coins circulating. It was only natural not to want to reveal it to anyone.
"Oh, a book on magic circles' analysis."
He flipped through it quickly and found that it was detailed. Similar principles to Shuu's magic circles were being used. However, it wasn't useful. Shuu had already established more advanced theories.
There were a few interesting books on magic, but the forbidden spell books took precedence.
"Forbidden spells... forbidden spells..."
There were quite a few books marked as forbidden.
This nation had a long history, after all.
They had also ruled half of the continent, including subject nations, and had collected records of forbidden spells and divine spells in the process. Although they had never been used, they had indeed been researched. Because there were no users, these books were placed in the forbidden section.
Shuu had finally found what he was looking for.
"Is this it?"
It wasn't just a book about wind spells and divine spells; it also included fire, water, and earth spells. Since they had come all this way, Shuu didn't hesitate to take them all.
The forbidden library blocked magical energy, so using magic wouldn't reveal them.
He summoned a shadow spirit and entrusted it with the forbidden books.
The snake-like black spirit swallowed the books and returned to the shadows.
By the time they had retrieved everything, Shuu sensed a presence behind him.
"Are you done?"
"Yeah, how about you, 'Takame'?"
"I've obtained some interesting information. Thanks to you."
"I see."
Whether it was his true expression or not, he was definitely pleased.
However, 'Takame' suddenly adopted a more serious demeanor.
"Shall we talk now?"
"Sure... By the way, isn't there a meeting of the top brass soon? Where will it be held?"
"Oh, for that, it will be here."
He produced a note from seemingly nowhere and handed it to Shuu. 'Takame' was versatile, and Shuu couldn't figure out where he had taken it from. It was quite skillful.
When Shuu checked the note, it was a well-known high-end bar. Apparently, if you mentioned the passphrase to the manager, they would guide you. It was more straightforward than he had expected. He had thought there might be a secret underground room or something.
However, conversely, it meant that the Black Cat was an organization with considerable power.
Famous bars were likely operated by the Black Cat behind the scenes.
"I see."
"Yes, soon this country will be absorbed
by the Sacred Kingdom of Grinia. Since it's a nation where dark organizations have a hard time operating, the meeting will be about that."
"It might not be that simple. Unifying the continent will bring its own set of problems. There should still be opportunities for us to shine."
"I hope so. However, 'Tenbin,' 'Whitesnake,' and 'Wakae' will probably find it difficult to operate."
"Those are also top brass, huh?"
"Yes. 'Tenbin' is involved in money lending and gambling, 'Hakuda' is into illegal magical research, and 'Wakae' deals with drugs. The Demon Cult regulates all of them."
"Well, it's easier for the Subarokia Empire to operate, I suppose."
The Subarokia Empire holds significant economic and magical power. Even as a clandestine organization, with economic strength, they can penetrate countries. On the other hand, the Holy Grinia is dominated by the Demon Cult. Even magical knights are under strict control, and all research that can be used in wars, like magic, is seized by the church. It's a system that absolutely forbids individuals from possessing power. At the same time, gambling is prohibited, money lending is regulated with low interest rates, illegal magical tools without registration are quickly dealt with, and there are strict regulations on drugs. The Black Cat's ability to operate was likely to become more challenging.
"What about you, 'Takame'?"
"Me...?"
Shuu asked out of curiosity.
Takame, skilled in information gathering, seemed like they could still thrive under the control of the Holy Grinia. Moreover, if they became a spy, they could have stable employment as a civil servant. Or, they might even be able to excel as a Holy Knight.
However, Takame displayed a malicious grin, causing Shuu's expression to tense with a profound sense of hatred.
"I will destroy the Subarokia Empire. Yes, I strongly support that."
"...Surprising. Are you planning to destroy a nation through your usual information manipulation?"
"No, no. I have one purpose."
"A purpose?"
Shuu inquired, to which Takame promptly replied.
"My purpose is to destroy the Holy Grinia. Completely."
It was a voice that conveyed years of grudges.
◆◆◆
Twenty-two years ago.
In a vassal state far south of the Holy Grinia, an incident occurred.
It was a case of infant brainwashing by monsters.
"Hey, knight uncle."
"What's wrong, kid?"
"I'm hungry."
"Here, eat this."
A knight in armor handed food to the boy. It was a sweet fruit from a tree.
The boy accepted the fruit and put it in his mouth.
"I'm tired of this."
"Don't complain. Meat is precious."
"Uncle, you're not good at hunting, right? You always end up crushing the prey."
"Sorry about that..."
The fully armored knight looked dejected.
Even the knight, who exuded an eerie atmosphere, seemed to be touched by the boy's words.
However, the knight suddenly raised his head and looked around.
"What's wrong?"
The boy called out, but the knight placed his index finger on his lips, signaling for silence. The boy complied.
"Someone's coming."
The knight drew his sword and raised a large shield.
From the direction they were watching, there was a rustling sound in the grass. It wasn't an animal but something humanoid.
Thirty or so individuals wearing uniform white attire appeared.
They were all Holy Knights of the Demon Cult.
Leading them were a man and a woman.
"This is Disaster-class fiend, Evil Demon Knight Death Knight."
"Yes, and there's a child with them. About five years old, perhaps?"
The knight, Evil Demon Knight Death Knight, hid the boy behind him.
Despite being a monster, Evil Demon Knight Death Knight was trying to protect the human boy.
However, the Holy Knights didn't see it that way.
"Taking a child hostage..."
"You scoundrel!"
"This position makes it impossible for us to aim for long-range attacks!"
In the Demon Cult, monsters were taught to be evil. They couldn't fathom that Evil Demon Knight Death Knight was protecting and raising an abandoned child. They refused to acknowledge that a monster could have a compassionate heart.
One of the Holy Knights turned to the couple at the front.
"What should we do, Silver Bullet duo?"
The two Holy Knights were a married couple.
They had a daughter about the same age as the boy and were determined to rescue him. However, they also had mixed feelings about Evil Demon Knight Death Knight, who was hiding the boy.
"Hey, Dalia."
"Yes, Rose... That monster, it has a similar aura to our parents."
It didn't appear as if they were holding the child hostage. The boy wasn't afraid, and it seemed like he trusted Evil Demon Knight Death Knight. Because they had a child themselves, Dalia Silver Bullet saw a parental figure in Evil Demon Knight Death Knight. The boy had been raised with love by Evil Demon Knight Death Knight. Therefore, the boy spoke clearly.
"I... I want to stay with the knight, uncle!"
Evil Demon Knight Death Knight, in its sinister form, seemed somewhat pleased.