Make Dark Fantasy Great Again

Chapter 120 Palag had a habit of retracing his memories whenever he hit a wall in his thought process. It was to catch any overlooked factors and thereby reach a more rational conclusion. For the same reason, Palag now began retracing his memories. Where should he start? Right. Since he couldn't gauge it, let's start from the beginning. Step by step. 'When I arrived at the meeting place, there was a hostile atmosphere toward Risir...' 'When Dray acted friendly toward Risir, that atmosphere completely reversed...' 'That person named Corsia got scared on her own and confessed that a criminal organization called the Third Arm had instructed her to harm Risir, and Dray and I said we'd handle it...' 'The meeting proceeded smoothly after that...' 'After confirming that Risir had properly acquainted himself with the other attendees, we took him and moved to another location...' 'With just the three of us remaining, I was the first to bring up that topic to Risir-' 'Asking what he wanted as a reward for his duel victory that I had mentioned before...' 'What Risir requested was observation of Idealization...' Palag demonstrated a flow of mana containing nothing more, nothing less than the pure essence of Idealization. So that Risir would feel thirst. So that he would desire more learning and covet the position that Moria had previously occupied. But then, his magical power suddenly surged. His magical power, which had been remaining at the latter stage of 6th Rank, suddenly broke through the wall and reached 7th Rank. Palag was confused about where to even begin raising questions. He observed a 'lump of Idealization' that hadn't even taken the form of magic, and immediately became able to skillfully handle the essence of Idealization? The wall of 7th Rank that countless people cannot overcome even with a lifetime of dedication, and such an unprecedented rise in magical power that seemed to deny the very existence of that wall? Or- "There's nothing to be surprised about! I just reproduced the phenomenon of sudden magical power increase that happened to Moria during the duel!" That sentence that made understanding itself seem impossible? "Groan...!!!" This was serious. He had retraced his memories, but rather than resolving his doubts, they had only deepened further. He was so confused that he felt he might even experience mana backflow if he wasn't careful. So what should he do? As one who pursued the principles of magic, how should he accept that existence that ruthlessly trampled upon the principles of magic? "...Right! You could indeed do such a thing!" The Archmage reached his own conclusion. He would recognize the man before him not as a single mage, but as a separate entity. He is Risir. So he can house powerful beings in his inner world, handle both sword and magic simultaneously, and freely traverse multiple ranks at will. -No. No matter what, that's hardly reasonable-... The Archmage struck down the head of reason that was impudently trying to raise itself. All the various Risir-related complications that had been troubling Palag's mind lately were simultaneously resolved. That sense of satisfaction was comparable to gaining magical enlightenment. Palag felt a moment of self-loathing toward himself for gaining such enlightenment as 'Hehe, I see, it's because he's Risir' and feeling that sublime satisfaction. “Lord Palag, what do you mean by that? You’re saying it’s possible because it’s you? Please, explain it so I can understand too—” "What explanation? How am I supposed to explain something like that? Just, accept it as it is. It'll be easier that way." "Ah." Eventually, the Great Noble also nodded in understanding. If some braided-hair elder from some magic tower, that great senior, were to see this, it would be the sight of juniors that would make him very pleased. "Huff... huff...!" At that moment, another change occurred in Risir's body. His magical power, which had stepped into the realm of 7th Rank, returned once again to 6th Rank. An ability to temporarily elevate one's level. Normally, the Talent Scout and Archmage's eyes would have rolled back completely. "Hehe." "My." However, the two who had gained precious enlightenment were able to appreciate that rare spectacle with peace of mind. Well. What would they do if their eyes rolled back? Try to analyze that? Try to imitate it? How? "Whoo... whoo..." Even in this situation, they recognized that Risir was utilizing Blue Breath. Judging by the refinement of his breathing alone, it would be acceptable to consider him a pure 6th Rank swordsman. He was handling such high-level Blue Breath simultaneously with the essence of Idealization. Such a thing couldn't be achieved simply by analyzing and imitating it. Finally, Risir concluded his breathing. "Cough!" He spurted blood from every opening in his face. "Oh my, look at that." "Risir, are you alright?" "Ah, yes. This happens sometimes. I thought I had gotten better, but I guess I overdid it just now." "It's fine, it's fine. If you don't push yourself when you're young, when will you? At that age, everyone grows by doing such things." “Oh, Lord Palag, did you also suffer from frequent overloads like me?” "Hahaha, that's crazy talk. Do you think overload is like a hangover or something? You're probably the only one who treats overload so casually. By the way, experiencing overload so frequently, it's remarkable that your body is still intact." "I also train my body through swordsmanship, and sometimes my magical power increases spontaneously, which is also very helpful." "Haha, magical power increasing spontaneously from time to time. That's quite fortunate. What a good thing for you." "Hahaha, I agree." "Hahaha, when you say magical power increases, you mean like when taking an elixir, right?" "Pardon?" "Hahaha! Lord Palag, look at this face! The face that says 'why are you asking something so obvious'!" "Hahaha! Indeed, you did ask a foolish question!" "Then Risir wouldn't even glance at elixirs that all mages covet?" "Hahaha, of course not. Elixirs are good to have when available." "'Good to have when available' for elixirs, hahaha what an amusing expression. Don't you think so, Lord Palag?" "Hehehe, indeed. Amusing, quite amusing." "..." The bespectacled young lady standing in the corner of the room. Macy, Dray's secretary and bodyguard, watched their otherworldly conversation with a disgusted expression. *** "Well, then-" Palag and Dray, who had been laughing and chattering enjoyably(?), changed the atmosphere. Before meeting Risir today, they had resolved to make him their person even if it meant using every means at their disposal. Their thinking had changed. They decided to give up on Risir. Their interest and fascination with him remained the same, no, had actually increased- 'Handle that?' Such thoughts couldn't be erased from their minds. Dray and Palag were those who stood above others. The type who could only be satisfied when dealing with people by keeping them thoroughly under their control. They considered it. Risir. Could they keep him thoroughly under their control? The conclusion came before the deliberation even began. Right now, the feeling that their intelligence had been dropping in real-time while conversing with him just moments ago was still vivid. Thus, they changed their approach. Now their goal was to leave a good impression on that incomprehensible existence and establish a good relationship. The Archmage and Great Noble who always made those they dealt with tremble with anxiety. They rarely found themselves in the opposite position. They had no idea how to get close to that incomprehensible existence. But surprisingly, as they cautiously conversed, his personality was very agreeable, unlike his incomprehensible abilities. In a good way, that is. He didn't cower excessively before the Great Noble and Archmage, and his etiquette was flawless. It was a mature demeanor rarely seen in young nobles of his age. The two quickly developed a favorable impression of Risir as a person. Natural smiles appeared on their faces as they conversed with him. Macy, Dray's secretary who was still watching their conversation from the side, felt considerable surprise. Dray and Palag. From others' perspectives, encountering them was close to a disaster. They always treated people as if appraising objects. And how demanding their standards were. They were those who possessed perspectives and ways of thinking befitting their positions. For such two people to express pure favor. No matter how much it was enabled by his abilities, it was an extremely rare occurrence. 'Risir...' Risir's existence was clearly imprinted in their minds with various meanings. Meanwhile, Dangaleon cleared his throat and exclaimed. -Like insects drawn to light, those fools are captivated by master's radiance and cannot escape!!! I, Dangaleon, who wishes to become a great flame like Risir!!! Can only feel awe!!! Risir was also feeling a similar kind of bewilderment that wasn't quite bewilderment. He had never imagined that he would earn such favor from a Great Noble and an Archmage. 'Perhaps the real reward wasn't from that meeting, but what I received in this room.' That harmonious atmosphere was maintained until they parted ways. "Risir, I plan to stay here at Gus's Mansion for a while longer. Let's meet often. If you need anything, just say so." "I too am staying longer than planned- but I'm suddenly finding this city of Bondaless interesting. Come find me again when you're in need of more teachings. However, you'll need to be prepared to join our school at the very least." A satisfied smile spread across Risir's face as he parted with them and returned to his room. Not only had he completed his 'Enhancement' ability, but he had also been able to build relationships with figures important enough to have 'Great' before their titles. It was an enormous harvest. *** Indeed, it was the mansion of a great trading company head where various guests stayed and all kinds of stories were exchanged. The story about me and the two big shots spread in an instant, and now it seemed everyone knew about it. "Lord Risir, Young Lady Filana has prepared a gathering this evening. If it's alright with you, would you attend and grace the occasion? If you would just do that-" 'What's with the "Lord"?' When I was alone in my room, people constantly came to invite me somewhere- "Ah, Lord Risir!" "Would you care to join us if it's alright? We were just talking about you, my lord." 'I'm asking what's with the "Lord".' When I walked around the mansion, everyone I encountered recognized me and spoke to me. -Unexpected. "Clana?" -I can feel that you're excited. I thought you wouldn't be interested in this sort of thing. As Clana said, I was indeed somewhat excited. "Even though I may not look it, I'm from bastard origins, aren't I? I suppose I had some fantasies about being treated like nobility." -...You're a bastard? "What? Didn't you know?" -Your appearance and behavior. I was certain you were from a high-ranking family. "Ah, my family does barely belong to the high-ranking families. Just at the very edge though." -No, that's not what I meant-... Well, anyway, it's unexpected. -Inorganic wench!!! To express what our master is - noble and elegant - in such a lowly manner! That's your limit! "Whoa, whoa. Don't fight. On such a good day." When I heard from Fienne that Bondaless was planning to grant me a position, a sudden concern came to mind. 'Can I, a bastard without proper background, truly maintain the dignity befitting a respectable position in a great city like Bondaless?' That was my worry. My magical and swordsmanship skills were steadily improving, and my connections were also growing smoothly- But I was still a bastard without any real power or wealth. In that sense. The current situation where the distinguished guests of the great trading company head call me 'Lord' and treat me with respect held great significance. It felt like substance was finally being given to the power and influence I possessed. 'Wow, Risir. You've really come this far.' The time when I was ignored as a bastard and only looked for chances to escape the mansion. The time when I worried about immediate shelter in Bondaless. All those moments seem vivid as if they were yesterday- The emotion was refreshing. As I was enjoying such a pleasant mood while strolling through the garden, someone approached me waving their hand. "Hey, Lord Risir." "You are-" It was a woman with an impressive swaggering gait that emphasized the sword at her waist. Brien. According to Fienne, she was a 7th Rank swordsman famous throughout the Continental Center. 'A 7th Rank swordsman...' My interest was piqued. Come to think of it, I had never faced a 7th Rank swordsman before. Perhaps it was because I had just observed 7th Rank magic performed by an 8th Rank mage yesterday and gained significant enlightenment. I couldn't erase the thought of wanting to observe her swordsmanship from my mind. "Taking a walk?" "You can call me casually. Just Risir. I'll call you Ms. Brien." "Aha~ How could I do that? To someone who's close friends with Frozen Breath and the Talent Scout." Brien said that while making her characteristic laugh and lightly tapping my arm. Then her gaze turned toward my waist. "You usually carry a sword around?" "Huh? Ah, that’s right. I’m a mage, after all." "Ah~ A mage, you say. I’ve never seen such a ferocious 'strike' in my life." "Haha, to receive praise from such a renowned swordsman as yourself. It's an honor." "An honor? Do you really think so?" "Of course." "Oh~ Then how about this? Wait just a moment." Brien. After briefly leaving and returning, she had two swords in her hands. She handed one of them to me and said. "A glorious opportunity, how about it?" "Pardon?" "Let's have a duel." "Oh..." What incredible luck out of nowhere. Just when I was hoping to observe a 7th Rank swordsman's techniques, the person herself was proposing a duel. I accepted the sword without hesitation. "Aha~ I like how straightforward you are. Is this why those two were charmed?" Brien drew her sword with a roguish laugh. Just as this miraculous duel, achieved through coincidence combined with mutual understanding, was about to begin. "Lord Risir, so you were here." A characteristically businesslike voice called out to me. The bespectacled young lady who was Dray's secretary and bodyguard- Macy was looking at me from there. "Miss Macy? What brings you here?" "You can call me Macy casually." "This is more comfortable. It has a rhythm when I say it that's exciting, you could say." "..." "Ah, I'm sorry if that offended you." "No. I don't mind at all, so please call me casually." Macy pushed up her glasses to adjust them and continued speaking. "Lord Risir, Lord Dray has requested a meeting." "Right now?" "That's correct." "Oh no..." To have to give up the opportunity to observe 7th Rank swordsmanship. What a bolt from the blue. However, I couldn't refuse a Great Noble's summons. Moreover, that person wouldn't have called me without reason. There would surely be some significant benefit waiting there too. I spoke to Brien with lingering regret. "Brien, I'm sorry. It seems we'll have to postpone the duel." Brien raised both hands and shrugged her shoulders. The reaction itself was playful, but she too seemed disappointed like me. "What a shame. I really wanted to see that ferocious strike again with my own eyes." With an expression that was even slightly displeased, Brien immediately turned and left. *** A room in the mansion where I arrived following Macy. Dray, who was sitting facing someone, welcomed me. "Ah! You're here. Here, let me introduce you. This is Risir- a friend I recently made." The woman facing Dray was standing rather than sitting. As if that was more comfortable for her. 'Is it because she's wearing armor?' Her gaze followed Dray's gesture toward me. 'Compared to this woman, even Macy would seem lively.' She was a woman with such a cold impression that it made me think that. Dray's introduction of her continued. "Risir, let me introduce you. This is Tua Ye Devilan. The second daughter of the Devilan House and Captain of the Devilan Knight Order Special Forces." "..." The honorific "Ye" in her name signified that she was born of the most noble bloodline. The second daughter of a Great Noble house. Moreover, the important position of knight commander of a Great Noble house's order. No wonder her presence was extraordinary - she was another tremendous figure. "I am Tua of the Devilan House." "Ah, I'm Risir. It's a pleasure to meet you." That was the entirety of our conversation. She, Tua, turned her gaze back to Dray. "So, what is it? Why are you suddenly introducing that person to me?" "I told you. That I know a friend with extraordinary abilities. Who knows? Maybe that friend could help you right now?" "Help?" Dray immediately answered my reflexive question. "Right now, Tua is looking for someone who has hidden in Bondaless- but this person is difficult to find through ordinary methods." "What kind of person is he?" "A Hero killer." "...Pardon?" "The first hero’s six sacred swords. This person killed a hero candidate who possessed five of them." I was bewildered to suddenly be caught up in such an enormous scale of conversation, but I tried to continue the discussion. "If he committed such a tremendous crime, his face and name should have been exposed to the entire world. He's hiding remarkably well." "That's the problem." "Pardon?" "Face and name. That bastard can freely change his face and name. Have you heard of the Face Thief?" "I'm hearing about it for the first time." Then Tua continued with the explanation. "Former Master of an Assassin Guild. He has the ability to steal not only someone's face and voice, but even their techniques. According to information, he perfectly mimicked a 7th Rank swordsman's appearance, voice, and even their unique swordsmanship on the spot." "He perfectly copied a 7th Rank swordsman's unique swordsmanship on the spot? Is that even possible?" "It's impossible, and it shouldn't be possible. However, he possesses an ability that makes it possible." "Wow..." I couldn't help but be shocked by Tua's words. And Tua, seeing my reaction, nodded repeatedly and then spoke to Dray. "Dray. As I said, this is a matter involving the Face Thief. I cannot involve such a young mage." "..." "What's with that expression? Did I say something wrong?" "No, it's not that-" Dray looked at me with his brow deeply furrowed. "Risir, why are you surprised?" "?" "?" At Dray's behavior, both Tua and I simultaneously expressed bewilderment.