Chapter 89

Falsehood. Deception. Incitement.

Whatever it may be, one thing is key.

Did it work?

Among the spoken words, which were truth and which were lies… this kind of thing isn’t at all important.

-If the results are satisfying and everyone can accept the conclusion, isn’t that enough?

“…….”

Without even having time to observe the crowds stepping back, Carriel returned inside the chapel.

The moment the surrounding gazes disappeared, he heavily exhaled as he sat on a nearby chair.

“Uh… Are you… Are you okay? Master?”

“…….”

Unable to respond, he weakly moved his head.

“You talk nonsense without even wetting your lips, yet your incitement skills remain as sharp as ever?”

“…….”

Aiseus smiled familiarly at Carriel.

Louilin asked with guarded eyes.

“You seem to know him quite well.”

“At least we were old acquaintances?”

The “me” she spoke of from the past seemed to excel in this kind of ability.

Speaking of which, the reputation or fame formed back then?

It feels like I’m starting to grasp it a little.

“Rather than that, what falsehoods were there in what I just said?”

Just as Leil’s group entered the chapel late and heard that sound.

When Leil questioned Aiseus who was confidently smirking, she calmly answered.

“She didn’t say anything about why those outside won’t turn this village into chaos, did she?”

“That’s….”

“She merely emphasized the issue that if the villagers themselves harmed Carriel, problems would arise. However, for them, that point was the biggest concern. Even if the daemons outside can’t interfere, should Carriel die and the daemons retreat quietly, will the Metran Kingdom or the local lord here protect them? Especially since the heir of the Great Warrior has died. Avoiding responsibility is out of the question; making others take the blame might be cheaper. Though whether that anger subsides is questionable.”

They would have acted immediately when the crowd formed if they had been less thoughtful.

However, this wasn’t a simple village sustained solely by farming.

And if they were completely ignorant and lacked brains, the chapel would’ve already faced an assault akin to a siege long before Carriel appeared.

In that sense, this case was somewhat fortunate.

But still.

“Carriel stimulated their anxiety right from the start using shock therapy.”

Next came overwhelming power.

“…I didn’t expect you to show that much, but I see how impressive it was with that corpse-like body of yours.”

Louilin threw an uneasy glance.

“Well, since he woke up, things must’ve improved a bit, right?”

“Just because the corpse opened its eyes doesn’t mean much improvement.”

That was exactly how Carriel himself felt.

“After overpowering them with force, all he said was ‘believe me,’ right? Regardless of the wording, that was essentially it, wasn’t it?”

“…That’s not how I heard it.”

“Is that what it meant?”

“You two are already closer to this side, so it probably didn’t resonate as strongly with you.”

However, for those driven to a dead-end…

For those more likely to see us as enemies rather than allies…

It would’ve felt entirely different.

“A simpler and more desirable message would’ve resonated deeper than complex explanations. Elaborating further might’ve only caused confusion, and their patience would’ve run out quickly.”

“Can such a thing really happen?”

An angry mob soon became restless and eventually voluntarily dispersed.

…On the surface, it was utterly incomprehensible.

Typically, when people gather like that, someone gets hung, decapitated, or their corpse mutilated—or a public execution happens—before the rage subsides.

Louilin had repeatedly experienced that blood and fire were necessary to calm such situations.

So, when things went smoothly now, it was…

“Therefore, throughout history, incitement and eloquence have been called the talent of rulers and the most precious skill kings must possess.”

“…….”

“If I knew they’d understand, I did that much. If they hadn’t understood even a bit, I might’ve adopted another method. Like pulling out the leader of the group or threatening them with leverage… Or perhaps executing a few as examples, mutilating bodies to instill fear and suppress their aura. Ah, each method works differently, so choosing carefully is crucial.”

Then, Aiseus looked at Carriel with a smile asking if he understood.

“…….”

Still, for some reason, her eyes seemed filled with inner turmoil.

What emotional state could that be?

It’s more than joy, mixed with anger.

Yet no hostility is felt.

This means…

-Your anger isn’t toward you but rather pity and frustration for your situation.

The Demon King added an explanation.

Normally, he wouldn’t explain such trivial details.

Given that the adventure earlier happened because the Demon King herself pressured it.

What made you believe you could step forward unarmed against an enraged mob?

Yet why…

Did they disperse so easily after being swayed by such illogical words?

To Carriel, it was an incomprehensible result, but surprisingly, Aiseus interpreted it in a way that even Carriel could agree with.

-They lost faith. Thus, reviving their belief and planting an idol they can believe in is enough.

Personal interests pale compared to absolute faith.

However, that faith doesn’t always need to be truth, righteousness, life, or law.

-Force upon them the belief they want. They pretend to accept it helplessly, but in reality, it’s the belief they desire most. Humans and ignorant crowds yearn to be dominated and led. Individually, it’s different. Individually.

The villagers wanted to escape this unstable situation where their lives were endangered.

They forced all responsibility onto Carriel himself.

They were coerced. Threatened.

And then promised safety.

…Even without any guarantee, what else is needed?

He says so.

Believe him.

Won’t it solve everything?

When he offers a solution in a situation beyond our control, rejecting it leads to what? Is there a better alternative?

-Comfort is good for this reason. Opening your mouth lets them pour honey down your throat, and rejecting it makes you look foolish. That’s the trap.

“…….”

Well, that’s not all, but…

Carriel seems to lack self-awareness despite his low self-esteem.

The kid is already an excellent embodiment of absurdity.

When ominousness reaches extremes, it becomes mystery and faith.

Being the descendant of the continent’s strongest heroes classified as Great Warriors, the child of Ruelde and Hermine—the top tier of the great empire.

Additionally, information about Carriel’s existence spreads chaotically.

Ignorance amplifies the mysterious concept.

Next?

Depending on how it’s received, it can become faith and idolatry or something completely opposite.

And.

Aiseus continues her explanation in a context similar to what the Demon King explained to Carriel, albeit imperfectly.

Everyone stared at her as if she were a monster.

Despite her wide smile, Aiseus revealed a deeply aggrieved attitude.

“Look at that. Again. You’re the one who calculated and executed it, so why am I treated like a monster for explaining?”

“…….”

Carriel barely breathed and complained.

“Using it for show was also… your choice.”

“Was it?”

“…Isn’t it more enjoyable for you? Wasn’t that reaction pleasurable too?”

As if affirming the correct answer, Aiseus grinned like a fully bloomed flower.

Her composed and elegant appearance contrasted oddly with the inappropriate smile given the situation.

“You understand me too well. Despite incomplete memories about me, you grasp the essence instantly. Now you’re acting like yourself again. The gloominess still hasn’t settled, though.”

“…….”

“What do you mean incomplete memories?”

“Ah, maybe I shouldn’t have said that in front of others?”

You crazy woman.

Benus muttered under his breath while leaning against the wall.

“Don’t worry anyway. This guy is thorough in these matters, but ultimately, it benefits everyone. He’s always loved people too much. With such abilities, he could’ve been a king, yet he kept suffering losses.”

“…….”

Despite feeling so exhausted, Carriel couldn’t stop a chuckle from escaping.

Was I always this naive back then?

This is a welcome sign in another sense.

…Though utterly absurd.

“This act was also, in a way, aimed at minimizing harm to the village. It would’ve been their loss if the villagers had gone berserk unnecessarily. Actually, according to Venus, there were cases where people died trying to attack him.”

“Speaking of which, let me ask. Isn’t that supposed to be a Sacred Sword? You mentioned earlier.”

At that moment, Venus interjected.

Considering his personality, enduring this long was almost miraculous.

“Why did Lord Grandeous wield a Sacred Sword?”

“…….”

Why are you asking me this?

Carriel could only faintly exhale, lacking the energy to respond.

“Hey. Answer me.”

Leo intervened before things got worse.

“Excuse me. Sir Leil looks very unstable right now, so pushing him like this…”

“He’s not a corpse, right? That’s all that matters.”

“What kind of brat is this?”

Luciri, who had been observing silently until now, finally joined in.

“What nonsense is this, miss?”

“Miss? What’s with your tone?!”

“Guys, it seems like your heads are overheated. Calm down…”

Deyk, who had maintained neutrality until now, finally stepped in.

“Master.”

“…See? That’s why I told you to avoid them early. Just watching them is exhausting.”

Carriel whispered with a smirk.

Luilin detected even the faintest sounds and frowned slightly, seemingly hurt.

“Instead of being awkward, just say thank you.”

“…….”

Thank you.

Thinking about it, why am I here in the chapel?

That part still remains unresolved.

And as if sensing it, Luilin provided an answer.

“It’s thanks to Brother Leo suggesting we come. We would’ve been in trouble if we’d arrived any later. There’s no proper medical staff here unlike in the Empire. The privileges of Irene’s Doctrine truly shine in such aspects.”

The problem is that the one granting those privileges is absent.

Luilin glanced at Aiseus, who chuckled.

“Stop fighting over there and come here.”

Carriel spoke, and Luilin quickly relayed the message.

“Before discussing the Sacred Sword… Venus. According to what I heard, that sword was originally meant to be wielded by you.”

“What?”

“Just convey that exactly. That sword should have been in your hands, but because you changed, it refused to be used by you. That’s why you can’t draw it now.”

Was this a shock? After remaining silent for a while…

“…Is this Sacred Sword claiming it has its own will and refusing my use? How infuriating.”

But Aiseus laughed loudly, agreeing with the statement.

“Haha! No kidding! And it’s true, right? If that’s a Sacred Sword, it doesn’t make sense for someone like you to wield it!”

“What?”

“If it’s a Sacred Sword, it shouldn’t be wielded by lunatic battle maniacs like you. Maybe if it were a Demon Sword.”

“Let me see that crazy woman!”

Yet, his non-denial suggested he agreed to some extent, which was somewhat unexpected.

“Having to flatter a sword to hold it is embarrassing.”

“Then give up.”

“…….”

Despite Aiseus’ taunts, Venus showed no particular reaction.

“There must be conditions or restrictions. Do you know what they are?”

How should his serious approach be interpreted?

Carriel recalled the content he heard earlier.

[Definition.]

[Guardian of Good. Immediate punishment of Evil. Execution of Balance.]

[I am a Sacred Sword that protects Good.]

[If you wish to wield me, you must promise: To follow Good. To punish Evil. Can you do this?]

He conveyed this content verbatim to everyone, including Venus.

Aiseus snapped her fingers and criticized Venus even more aggressively.

“Of course you couldn’t pull it out after spending years trying! Those conditions basically negate your entire life. Is that possible for you?”

“…Not impossible. I uphold my own justice and goodness.”

“But don’t you despise the weak? That’s something you can’t change, right?”

“…Do I?”

“Didn’t you think otherwise?”

“I hate those who willingly choose weakness, not that I despise the weak.”

“Some destinies leave no room for choice. You despise those who resist destiny, even though they may not choose to live that way. What sins have they committed to deserve your disdain? It’s not like they’re struck by random calamities.”

Carriel understood why Venus held such attitudes toward the weak.

Because of his miserable circumstances, he believed he overcame them through his own efforts.

Thus, seeing others not doing the same irritates him immensely.

Over time, this sentiment grew into blind hatred.

-That understanding is fine. But distinguishing between truth and illusion is important. Believing your thoughts and emotions as truth without verification is problematic. Until proven, nothing is fact.

…Without uttering a word, somehow she advises like this.

Damn Demon King.

“I only hate immoral individuals who misuse their strength. Strength comes with responsibility, yet too many in the world wield it irresponsibly.”

“What’s wrong with that? Why does possessing strength require responsibility? Aren’t you the epitome of an outlaw?”

“…That’s why I can’t communicate with you.”

“No, you’re the one talking strangely. Who decided responsibility is necessary? In human society, the powerful are few, and they’re restricted by countless rules and regulations imposed by the majority and the weak, labeling it as responsibility. But that’s all nonsense, right? Why would that be the truth?”

It’s instinctive for those with more to eat better food, wear finer clothes, and live in better homes.

Being envied because of that…

And later seeking greater stimulation when it becomes mundane…

“All instincts. Warning against them is just religious babble. Why? Because managing a collective requires it. When desires go unchecked, it creates chaos within society and organizations. Hence, it’s labeled evil. Take me as a prime example.”

However, being managed and controlled means…

Living a dull, uneventful, and ordinary life.

…Would you throw your life away for such a boring and unfortunate existence? Ridiculous.

“Having strength so you aren’t looked down upon, respected, living comfortably, eating well, working less, free from moral, ethical, and legal constraints—whether it’s wealth, land, or status—it’s all the same. The essence of life.”

If someone tried to kill you.

If you’re weak, you’d die. But if you’re strong, you could retaliate and exact revenge.

Yet legally, that’s considered a crime? Worse, you might pay with your life?

Should I accept that quietly just to follow some societal norms?

Why should I? For whose benefit?

“In that case, I believe in burning down nations and societies. Any world that suppresses my freedom and will should vanish in flames. Drowning them in water could work too.”

“…That’s why you’re a crazy woman.”

“Why do you single me out when you do similar things? Could this be what they call intra-species hatred?”

“…Crazy woman.”

By revealing their inclinations, ideologies, and values so clearly, analysis becomes easier.

Silently, Carriel absorbed all of it.

How to handle and utilize them.

For that purpose.

“You’re not alone here, right?”

“Huh?”

“Aid Knights.”

Carriel spoke softly.

“You didn’t reveal yourself just to spout prophecies in front of me, did you? There must’ve been a reason for showcasing your presence.”

“Was there? I didn’t know till just now. Venus? Was it?”

“…Why are you asking me?”

“Ah, right. You’re good at fighting but lack planning skills, don’t you?”

“This crazy woman keeps…”

“Someone like Uthserph or… rather Rupert? Our First Sword wouldn’t care about such trivial matters. Even if he comes, dealing with the guys outside is uncertain.”

This is information.

Aiseus might be providing it just in case.

…Or not.

“Why? So you want to see those brats’ faces?”

“No.”

“Huh?”

Just moments ago, it sounded like you intended to stir things up, but suddenly?

“The cooperation or assistance at this point reveals obvious intentions.”

Acting blindly without knowing anything, playing along with someone’s palm…

…I’d rather not.

Absolutely.

Spread unparalleled evil across the world and perish.

Naturally.

Your stomping ground will become barren, incapable of growing even a blade of grass, due to my death.

“Just deliver my message.”

“No way, this guy wants to use someone as a messenger?”

“I revealed secrets about the sword you’ve never known in your life. Isn’t that a favor?”

“Is… this really…”

“It’s your choice.”

“Our Venus lacks breadth. His inner thoughts are skewed and closed like a child’s…”

Grinding teeth!

Venus’ veins bulged on his forehead, but he refrained from confronting her directly.

For someone with pride, emphasizing unnecessary self-respect in odd places is laughable.

-Humans naturally twist things to suit themselves.

The Demon King observed the scene impassively and lectured as if it were natural.

Of course, Carriel too…

…Having encountered such injustices for far too long, he wouldn’t bring it up now.

Such types only react more strongly when externally pressured.

It’s better to dangle bait and let them bite on their own.

“I was a little disappointed thinking you were buying more time to live. Still, your proactive search for the next step is commendable. You haven’t changed at all from back then.”

“…….”

Completely unfunny remarks.

Nevertheless, separate from my feelings, her favor was undeniable.

“When the sun reaches the zenith, she said she’d return. You should prepare. Still, considering it’s you, you’ll probably overcome any crisis, right?”

“…….”

I.

Can do nothing but a powerless snicker.

For now.

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