Chapter 207

Posted by Kuze, ? Views, Released on February 8, 2025

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“The independence from the World Tree. That’s the proposal I wish to make to you all.”

That statement wasn’t just about one simple demand.

It meant laying down faith, and even giving up their livelihood… a cruel verdict.

“That’s impossible, Carriel. You know that as well as anyone.”

“Nothing is impossible.”

Carriel shook their head and reiterated to the Queen.

“It’s merely that we find it easier to believe in our own limitations.”

Words were clear, but reality was quite the opposite.

“If that’s the case, I’d appreciate it if you could elaborate on the specific points of this independence you speak of.”

“First, let go of your blind dependence on and faith in the World Tree.”

For instance, faith.

“Anyone can hold onto beliefs for personal solace or satisfaction, but anything beyond that is troublesome. Beyond that, it truly has no meaning whatsoever.”

“Hmm…”

In any case, with the World Tree itself pursuing its own demise, what significance do those who rely on it really have?

Let alone being born from the World Tree; there’s no reason they should share its fate in death either.

…And yet, the Queen stood there, believing otherwise.

“Our situation is ideal if you bear the burden of sin for us….”

“There’s no need for feelings of debt or guilt. It’s simply doing what must be done.”

A comment so benevolent it borders on suspicious.

But here, discussing transactions or gains and losses would be an utterly poor strategy.

Winning someone’s heart means sacrificing benefits and wasting time and effort, without any guarantee of reciprocation.

That’s normal.

It’s akin to exploring for treasure, Carriel thought.

Earning someone’s trust and credibility is like acquiring discovered treasure.

Until you safely return with the treasure, you haven’t truly obtained it.

“But Carriel, only a select few can understand and accept such circumstances.”

“What are you talking about? In an era where a minority rules the majority, the key lies in the acceptance of that minority.”

“But our foundation and core are our brothers and sisters. We can’t just publicly announce this to them without preparation….”

“It’s the responsibility of those in power to persuade and convince. If you’re only concerned with reading the mood below, then what sets you apart from corrupt human rulers obsessed solely with power?”

“……”

“Humans pursue politics for the acquisition and maintenance of power, building prestige and gaining public support along the way. Is that what elves are like too?”

“…No.”

“External criticism doesn’t faze them, but internal disapproval strikes fear. The awareness that criticism might escalate into something more serious reflects a ruler admitting their choices were wrong.”

“……”

Tension hung in the air during their private meeting.

“Don’t fear being criticized, insulted, or pointed fingers at. After all, each person lives their own life. If I think I’m right, I move forward. If you’re restrained by both superiors and inferiors, you’ll accomplish nothing.”

“…Hmph. You consider that mere trifling nonsense.”

“Life, honor, future, dreams, hopes—let go of everything, and there’s nothing left to fear in this world.”

Carriel tilted their lips.

“Do you know what the World Tree demanded of me? It threatened me with eternal torment if I didn’t follow its commands.”

“……”

“And if I had caved out of fear, I’d be sitting with you now, detailing every bit of information I previously provided while strategizing the continent’s upheaval.”

“Did you not fear that at all?”

“Of course it’s terrifying.”

Still, when push comes to shove…

“When the time comes to stand firm, never compromise.”

“…Is that what He said?”

“My father may be strict, but he knows his stuff.”

“…Hmm.”

Standing up from the sofa, Carriel continued.

“Besides, I don’t trust or depend on anyone anyway.”

“…?”

“If you lack the courage to walk forward, I’ll create a situation where you have no choice but to proceed.”

I’ll push you from behind.

“Give it your best shot.”

====

Remira followed Carriel to his home.

The interior, long abandoned, carried an almost desolate aura.

…It wasn’t like this before. How did it come to this after just a few days?

Or maybe…

Was it because the owner’s essence and energy had changed?

“Carriel.”

“Hm? What is it?”

“What schemes are you concocting?”

“Loads of them?”

“Just tell me one. Is it a good cause or some nefarious plot?”

“Poison can also be medicine, depending on how it’s used.”

Carriel inspected the room, then poured water from a jar of stagnant water into a wooden bowl.

“Both poison and medicine are creations of the Creator. Their utility depends on how they’re used. Good and evil, justice and injustice—it all depends on perspective.”

“Those who wield bows against wrongdoers usually have a clear target, don’t they?”

Remira spoke calmly, prompting Carriel to turn and ask her directly.

“Which side do you think I’m on?”

“…I don’t know.”

Carriel took a sip of water, wiping his mouth as he spoke.

“Then keep pondering. Those who give up on thinking will forever wander within others’ imaginations and designs.”

Which side are you on?

“One can entrust their life, dreams, ideals, and purposes to others, but wandering within someone else’s imagination and design isn’t your style, is it?”

“Y-you, Carriel. Your words make sense, but when I think about them, they confuse me.”

“I simplified it so you’d understand easily.”

Carriel approached her, gesturing with his hand.

As Remira stepped closer, Carriel grabbed her collar, bending her forward.

“This is what I mean.”

And with that, Carriel swiftly bit her elongated ear with a loud crunch!

“―?!?!?!”

Startled, Remira leapt back, flailing dramatically.

“W-W-What do you think you’re doing?!”

“Whether you entrust your life to others or take control of it yourself, it’s all about your will. Don’t forget. If you stay dumbfounded like that, the world will exploit you until there’s nothing left but bones. And don’t regret it later.”

====

Over the bright sunlight at the cave entrance, a heavy shadow loomed.

An uncaring voice questioned abruptly.

“Can you read letters?”

Kailan entered the cave, removing his hood, as Bargo, lying motionless, suddenly opened his eyes.

“What are you implying?”

Kailan tossed him a bundle of papers.

“The operation is in four days. This outlines how you should act.”

“Variables?”

“Preventing them is our job. What about you guys?”

“We’re fully prepared.”

Though Bargo sat alone, countless of his kin hid throughout this lowly forest.

Some through external assistance.

Others secretly prepared backup plans disguised as cooperation.

They weren’t enough to threaten the elves but would surely chill their spines.

Their purpose wasn’t to destroy the elves or their treasures or facilities.

After all, the enemy of one’s enemy is an ally.

This was the result of understanding and utilizing that principle.

“The contract is absolute, but I must ask: does this truly benefit your race?”

“A race that loses its pride has no future. We don’t wish to live as immortal beasts.”

“Indeed.”

How trivial.

Truly pitiful talk, but from our perspective, it’s not a bad kind of ignorance.

“Rather, aren’t you the ones who will become the empire’s and its warriors’ targets? Can you withstand their wrath?”

“You don’t understand.”

A deep chuckle escaped from beneath the black cloth.

“The degradation of the noble and great is precisely what we desire most.”

The warrior achieving success in life must never happen.

“To engrave in their history how foolish it is to choose the path of a warrior. I’m here for that kind of future, not the present.”

In their world, their standards and symbols, righteous men, sages, and justice must not exist.

“By killing the righteous and elevating the wicked, we purify the world our way. What’s poison to them is food and nourishment to us.”

“Are you dense or just an impractical idealist? I can’t tell.”

“I merely hope my vision becomes vividly realized in this world.”

He strives for it. He fights for it.

That’s all.

Everything else is secondary and irrelevant.

Kailan scoffed.

“Fine. Do as you please.”

“You won’t be disappointed.”

Unrolling the paper bundle, Bargo began scrutinizing it seriously. Meanwhile, Kailan placed his basket down and leaned outside the cave bathed in sunlight.

“My vision…”

He had heard similar words before, and again here.

“Seems the minds of lunatics have their similarities.”

With a familiar place to navigate even with closed eyes, Kailan swiftly moved while lost in deep thought.

====

“Carriel, have you gone completely mad? Are you really going to proclaim this to the people? To those who’ve lived under the World Tree’s shadow?”

Frowning, Geoffrey watched as Carriel playfully swayed his body.

“But what can I do? Informing them that the World Tree’s lifespan is ending is already a compromise.”

“Who would believe such a thing entirely?”

“It’s not about making them believe. It’s about planting the idea. Whether they accept it or not isn’t our concern. Do people debate belief when holding funerals?”

“Carriel, do you think this counts as a kind lie?”

“Just trying to soften the expression to prevent riots and chaos….”

“Isn’t that exactly what you’re saying?”

“Interpretation varies.”

Originally,

to the common folk and citizens, matters of statecraft, political structures, big or small affairs, all these things are unrelated to individual lives.

If nations force citizens to tie themselves to national duties, showcasing it as glorious and honorable work, making them subordinate or involve themselves in governance…

…then that’s part of how other nations operate.

Elves, however, lean toward individualism.

Perhaps due to fewer desires and cravings compared to humans.

Instead, they possess steadfastness.

Unlike dwarves.

They’re peace-loving naturalists who enjoy living harmoniously with nature.

Far different from short-lived races chasing extreme pleasures and thrills.

Thus,

unless it drastically impacts their lives, there’s no need to disclose every detail of reality and fact, creating unnecessary commotion.

…Isn’t that why they gave the throne and crown to those above?

In that regard, they’re far more rational than many human nations.

…Even the senators and Queen Majesty handing over full authority to Carriel himself proves this point.